Rajan Thapaliya has written several books and is a former contributor to HuffPost (American news website). He is a data scientist based in New York and has completed Business Analytics from Harvard Business School. He primarily teaches at the Master’s and PhD levels as a Dissertation Chair and Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Computer and Data Science programmes. He is also an honorary member of the Rotary International Club.

In this conversation with the Post’s Sanskriti Pokharel, Thapaliya discusses literature as a gateway to critical thinking and empathy in tech fields.

What is literature to you? What made you a reader?

To me, literature is a window into the human soul, a reflection of our deepest thoughts, emotions, and experiences crafted through the power of words to connect us across time and space. It offers a gateway to understanding the complexities of the human experience, allowing us to explore diverse perspectives and challenge our own beliefs.

I began reading in childhood when I was surrounded by books in my family’s reading room. Growing up, I watched my father constantly immersed in books, particularly those penned by Tony Robbins. It sparked my curiosity. Consequently, I started reading classic novels like ‘Pride and Prejudice’ by Jane Austen and ‘Ulysses’ by James Joyce.

These stories entertained me and opened up new worlds and ideas. Over time, reading became more than a hobby; it became a way to explore different viewpoints, gain knowledge, and connect with the thoughts and feelings of others, bridging generations and cultures.

Have any books influenced your teaching style and your interactions with students?

Yes, several books have profoundly influenced my teaching style. One of the most significant is Harper Lee's ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’. It taught me the importance of empathy and understanding different perspectives and values, which I incorporate into the classroom.

‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ by Daniel Kahneman deepened my understanding of how the human mind works and helped me recognise that students process information differently. It encourages me to adapt my teaching methods to accommodate various learning styles.

Additionally, ‘The Alchemist’ by Paulo Coelho has shaped my approach to mentoring. It highlights the importance of pursuing one's dreams and finding purpose. I emphasise this idea to students, helping them connect their academic goals and personal aspirations. These books have inspired me to foster a supportive, student-centred learning environment that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and personal growth.

You teach data science and technology. How can literature benefit people in these fields?

Literature is crucial in developing well-rounded professionals, even in the highly technical fields of data science and technology. Literature fosters critical thinking and enhances our understanding of complex narratives, directly translating to problem-solving in data science. By reading literature, individuals can develop empathy and improve their communication skills, which is essential when working with teams, clients, or end-users.

Moreover, literature encourages creativity and the ability to think outside the box—skills vital when developing innovative technological solutions. It provides a deeper understanding of human behaviour and societal patterns, which can be invaluable when designing algorithms, predicting trends, or building user-centric applications. Ultimately, literature helps one see the bigger picture, connect technical work to real-world impacts, and approach their projects more creatively and emotionally.

How did meeting authors like Robin Sharma or James Patterson inspire you?

Meeting authors like Robin Sharma and James Patterson taught me valuable lessons about the power of good content and its influence on society. I learned how impactful writing can shape people's perspectives, inspire action, and create lasting change. Their works have influenced millions, demonstrating how well-crafted stories and ideas resonate deeply with readers across cultures and generations.

Through these interactions, I gained insights into the importance of understanding one’s audience and how the approach to readers, whether through compelling narratives or practical insights, can significantly enhance the connection between the author and the audience.

Additionally, I observed how strategic marketing and strong brand identity are crucial in amplifying the reach and impact of content. Both Sharma and Patterson have mastered the art of building a loyal readership by delivering quality content and creating a sense of community around their work. These experiences inspired me to focus on clear communication, authenticity, and audience engagement, which are essential in writing, teaching and professional endeavours.

You’ve authored multiple books and have written for platforms like Forbes and Entrepreneur. Do you find your literary background influencing your writing style?

Yes, my literary background has influenced my writing style, especially when crafting articles for platforms like Forbes Middle East, HuffPost, and Entrepreneur. Literature has taught me the power of storytelling, which I incorporate into my writing to make complex, contemporary topics more engaging and relatable.

Even in business or data science discussions, integrating narrative elements helps readers connect with the material more deeply. Through literature, I’ve honed my skills in structuring arguments, building tension, and emphasising key points, allowing me to present my ideas more compellingly.

Additionally, my literary background has made me more attuned to the human aspect of any topic. Whether writing about technological innovations or leadership strategies, I always emphasise themes of human behaviour, empathy, and societal impact. This holistic perspective, shaped by literature, enables me to approach contemporary issues in a way that informs, provokes thought, and engages a broader audience.

What advice would you give students about balancing their technical studies with a passion for literature and the arts?

My advice to students balancing their technical studies with a passion for literature and the arts is to embrace the complementarity of these fields. While technical studies develop analytical and problem-solving skills, literature and the arts enhance creativity, empathy, and critical thinking. Both can enrich your perspective, making you more versatile in solving complex problems.

As a professor teaching MS/PhD level students from diverse backgrounds at various US universities, I’ve seen firsthand how those who integrate these two fields excel by bringing a unique and holistic approach to their work. I’m constantly learning new perspectives from my students, which enriches my understanding and helps me grow professionally and intellectually.

Set aside dedicated time for both; technical work can be mentally demanding, and literature or the arts provide a refreshing break that stimulates your imagination and keeps you balanced. Integrate your love for literature and the arts into your technical work—storytelling is crucial for presenting data and explaining complex concepts, while creativity drives innovative solutions.

Balancing both passions will help you grow as a well-rounded individual capable of logical precision and creative thinking, preparing you for success in any field.

Rajan Thapaliya’s five book recommendations

To Kill a Mockingbird

Author: Harper Lee

Publisher: Grand Central Publishing

Year: 1988

This novel is a compelling look at justice, empathy, and moral bravery. It also encourages readers to stand up for what is right.

Sapiens

Author: Yuval Noah Harari

Publisher: Harper

Year: 2015

Harari presents a comprehensive journey through human history, offering insights into human development and societal structures.

Thinking, Fast and Slow

Author: Daniel Kahneman

Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux

Year: 2013

Nobel laureate Kahneman draws on decades of research to reveal how our minds operate and why we make the choices we do.

The Alchemist

Author: Paulo Coelho

Publisher: HarperTorch

Year: 1988

Coelho compels you to reflect on your passions and aspirations, inspiring you to seek greater meaning in personal and professional life.

1984

Author: George Orwell

Publisher: Secker & Warburg

Year: 1949

This book provides insight into the dangers of authoritarian regimes and underscores the vital need to safeguard individual freedoms.