Anup Neupane, a theatre artist active for over a decade, has made his mark in Nepal’s performing arts scene as both a director and a poet. His experience ranges from acting and voice work to poetry and play direction. He recently made his directorial debut with ‘Katha Ek’ and has been associated with productions such as ‘Sirumarani.’

As a poet, he has performed under the stage name AJ Bob and was among the Top 6 contestants of The Poet Idol, combining his passion for storytelling with a background in stage performance.

In this conversation with the Post’s Reeva Khanal, Neupane discusses how reading shapes his creativity, how books have influenced his view of life and art, and why he sees literature, theatre, and poetry as deeply tied to social change.

With all the time you spend directing and performing, how much space do you get for reading, and what role does reading play in your life as an artist?

Even if nothing else, I always carry one or two books in my bag. Sometimes I finish them quickly, other times it takes me two or three months, and occasionally they remain unfinished. I often tell my students and friends interested in the arts that an artist should read at least five books a month, watch five films, and read one poem weekly. And I say this quite firmly, those who do not read cannot become artists.

Why is it important for actors, directors, or poets to keep reading, and how does it shape their growth?

At the heart of it, whether acting, directing, or in any other form, art is a medium of expression. And all expression is tied to experience and imagination. An artist must also understand society, history, and the world, and how the world reveals and represents itself. Only then does one discover how they, too, should express themselves. Another point is that when an artist or writer speaks, it is essentially society speaking, and self speaking. To understand that, one must read.

Has a particular book influenced how you approached a character, directed a scene, or wrote a poem?

The book that has inspired me most in life is ‘Antarmanko Yatra’ by Jagadish Ghimire—both in writing and in how I live. It is a deeply moving autobiographical work, written when Ghimire was nearing the end of his life. When someone so close to death expresses themselves so deeply, it makes you realise that leaving the world is, after all, just another experience. With an inclination towards art and literature already, this book strengthened my conviction that experiences and imaginings must be expressed.

Many times, after finishing a book, I’ve felt so moved that I immediately wrote a poem. But I find myself searching for the characters in real life. Characters in books are imagined by someone else; I must search for new ones. Even so, books help me understand characters better.

When you look at poetry and theatre side by side, do you feel they speak in the same language of emotion or touch audiences differently?

Poetry and theatre may look different, but I feel they are closely linked, almost overlapping. Whether poetry, drama, music, or any other art form, they all speak to the same human emotions. In the end, it’s the feeling that connects with people—the form is just the surface.

What does literature mean to you beyond just performance?

For me, literature is expression. It is where we pour the things we cannot easily say or explain otherwise. But that expression must carry emotion. Literature without emotion or without clarity of thought feels dry. Performance, after all, only provides an image or perspective to literature.

Nepal recently experienced the Gen Z protest, leading to notable changes in politics and society. How do you perceive the role of art and literature during such crises?

The first responsibility of art is to show the truth, the second is to ask questions, and the third is to foster empathy and create comfort. That is why art, in all its forms, naturally becomes tied to social and political change. As change unfolds, art undergoes a shift in its consciousness and outlook. If we look at history, art and literature have always played a vital role in times of transformation.

At present, their influence is strong, and this influence is opening up new pathways of expression. As an artist and creator, I find myself both unsettled and excited, but hopeful. Personally and professionally, it has been a complex time.

Another important point is that even the younger generation, who once seemed indifferent to society and politics, has stepped forward with greater clarity. Their consciousness has grown, and their political and social awareness has deepened. This will bring positive results in the days ahead.

Looking forward, the role of art and literature is to hold a neutral space, to reflect both the good and the bad creatively, to raise awareness, and to provide a sense of comfort.

Anup Neupane’s five book recommendations

Rato Chamkilo Tara

Author/Translation: Ai Bao/ Raju Syangtan

Publisher: Futu Nepal

Year: 2021

This translated novel tells the story of Tungcha, the son of a Red Army soldier, and his struggles during the Chinese Revolution.

Antarmanko Yatra

Author: Jagadish Ghimire

Publisher: Book Hill Publications

Year: 2008

A reflection on life’s difficulties and personal growth. What stood out to me was the author’s desire to express himself openly.

Sirumarani

Author: Saru Bhakta

Publisher: Dovan Prakashan

Year: 2004

This is one of Nepali theatre’s finest plays, staged many times across generations. Its depth, structure, and mythology make it a timeless work.

Bholi Basne Bihan

Author: Krishna Bhushan Bal

Publisher: Sajha Prakashan

Year: 1984

A powerful poetry collection that explores human life and the flow of time. It is an example of simplicity and depth in Bal’s work.

Bise Nagarchiko Bayan

Author: Shrawan Mukarung

Publisher: Sangri-La Books

Year: 2010

A bold poetic work that blends rebellion and love. For me, Mukarung is one of the most alive poets of our time.