I do not know Raju Lama personally but I have heard the following from the people who know him and have dealt personally with him on matters of musical shows for which Lama came to the US. Raju Lama and his band mates were invited by a Nepali organization in NY to perform in various programs. Based on that invite, they all got visas. As per contract, Raju Lama and his band performed magnificently in all shows that they were required to. Upon completion of contract, some members of his band decided to stay in the US, some decided to go back (along with Nima Rumba) to Nepal. Raju Lama was one of those who decided it is best for his future to stay in the US. Raju Lama, being qualified to apply for Green Card under a certain category that is allocated for entertainers - much like the case of Saroj Khanal and others, is in the process of Permanent Residency application. Raju Lama is not staying here illegally as some may presume. It is his prerogative whether he stays in the US or goes back to Nepal. And as long as he is not doing anything that is against the law, it is his right. I say, if Raju Lama chooses to stay in the US, get a green card, work wherever he wants, then more power to him. I just hope we will get to hear him sing now and then at get-togethers and programs.