Disaster Risk Management expert Dr Krishna Devkota has degrees in diverse subjects such as engineering and management, but that does not mean he obsessed with academics. He often finds himself lingering over classics texts of literature—BP Koirala’s Sumnima and Laxmi Prasad Devkota’s Muna Madan are texts he returns to often. Devkota currently works as an associate professor at Lumbini International Academy of Science and Technology. Devkota spoke to Narendra Raule about his reading habits. Excerpts:

When did you first come to love books?

It was about 18 years ago that I moved to Kathmandu to pursue higher studies. I used to rent a room in Kirtipur, and would have ample time at my disposal. I started to frequent University’s library and read a lot of books—from 10 in the morning to five in the evening, I would be lurking in the library, reading whatever I could get my hands on. Not that I didn’t have a preference: books on history, politics and science were my favourites.

Looking back from now, at what stage of your life did you spent the most time reading?

I picked up the reading habit after I passed SLC; I utilised the free time after SLC reading. And I think I did most of my reading when I was pursuing BSc. During that period, I read more and more books that were not a part of the curricula.

Any such reading experience or any memorable author that have had an indelible mark on you?

During that period, I used use the money that I would obtain to buy course books to buy literary books instead; BP Koirala’s novels mostly. 

Let’s get back to the present… Which books did you complete recently?

I read journalist Jagat Nepal’s Pahilo Sansad: BP Mahendra Takarav. I also read Kul Chandra Gautam’s book, Lost in Transition. The former is an assessment on some major events in Nepali polity that took place long back. While the latter is about present-day Nepali political situation; the book is quite inspiring. I am rereading the book currently.

Books on what subjects do you enjoy reading the most?

Conflict management and literature on development and disasters.

Favourite authors?

Devkota, BP Koirala, Lil Bahadur Chhetri, Jagadish Ghimire, Narayan Wagle, among others.

Favourite books?

Koirala’s Jail Journal, and Sumnima—which I have read seven times; Devkota’s Muna Madan; Narayan Wagle’s Palpasa Café; Antarman ko Yatra by Jagadish Ghimire.

Why is reading important to you?

It is important as it helps me understand the inner workings of the society and to stay updated with national and international political, socio-economic happenings. And of course, to broaden my knowledge.

What books do you want to recommend to our readers?

Classics such as Muna Madan and Sumnima are ones I would tag as must reads.If you are interested to learn the current state of Nepali affairs go for Kul Chandra Gautam’s Lost in Transition.