What are you presently reading?

I am currently reading Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts and it is one of the best books I have come across so far.

In the book, there are parts about slums in India. I’d never actually witnessed one in real life and when my friend took me to this slum in Shantinagar recently, I learned a lot of things. The book has been inspiring me in such ways. We are saddened by minor things, but in the world, there are so many who live a difficult life and compromise all along the way, just to survive.

How did you first come to love books?

Reading is my newfound habit. It started with Palpasa Café  by Narayan Wagle, and has worked for me as an escape from work stress. I’ve learned to love the experience as it helps me kill time as well as learn something new.

Who are your favourite writers, and why?

I do not have a favourite writer as such. Paulo Coelho is one writer I quite enjoy reading. I also like Chetan Bhagat—mostly because his texts are simple, which was an encouragement for me when I first started reading.

What is good writing for you? What would you say makes a good writer?

I think simple writing, which everybody can understand and relate to, is good writing.

Has reading helped you in your profession in anyway?

As a journalist, it is very important to be updated about what is happening around you and every single new thing that you learn might be helpful. Recently published books like Khusi (Vijay Kumar Pandey) and Prayogshala (Sudheer Sharma) have been quite helpful for me to learn from others’ experience as well as to revise and keep myself updated about Nepali politics.

How do you evaluate the present trend of Nepali Literature?

I think Nepali literature is changing, all for the good. I recently read Subin Bhattarai’s Saya and I think it is a good read for people who want to develop the habit of reading.

How do you select books to read?

I go through online reviews before I buy a new book. I also heavily rely on recommendations and suggestions from my elders and seniors.

One book that inspired you a lot and why?

Although I am yet to finish it, I think Shantaram is by far the most inspirational book I’ve read. It has inspired me in ways no other book has been able to. It has taught me the value of being practical in life and constantly encourages me to be positive.  

Reading electronically has become very popular nowadays. Have you also adopted  this trend or do you still prefer to read from a physical copy?

I can’t seem to read e-copies of books as spending too much time in front of the screen hurts my eyes. And on top of that, I like to buy my own books and collect them, so a hard-copy is always my first choice. Books I own stay with me and that way I can reread my favourites.  

Your advice for young readers?

I would advice younger readers to read up on as much books as they can. I see a lot of diversions in the life of people these days and I feel like the new generation are drifting away from reading. They don’t seem to read books, or the news for that matter. That shouldn’t happen. Kids should spend time reading as well.