Krishna Bajgai, a Nepali writer residing in the UK, has been writing Nepali language literature for the past 21 years while living outside Nepal. He is the founding president of a contemporary literary organisation in the UK, Samakalin Literary Academy and the chief editor of an international journal focusing on migration research, Prawasan Research Journal of Nepalese Literature and has been editing and publishing a literary web magazine named Samakalin sahitya for the past decade.

Apart from this, he has also published 18 literary works in the Nepali language.

In an interview with the Post’s Anish Ghimire, Bajgai discusses why he got into writing, his role as the president of a Nepali literary organisation in the UK and the challenges Nepali writers face abroad.

What inspired you to pursue writing and how has your Nepali heritage influenced your literary journey?

My poem was first published in 1984 in a magazine, which inspired me to write more. As time went on, my interest in literature grew and I started searching for like-minded friends and forming groups. I also participated in various literary events and sometimes even organised them. Active involvement in literary organisations increased my interest in reading and writing literature. I began writing mostly to express myself.

Since 1984 until today, I have been involved in various literary organisations. I continue to write in multiple genres such as novels, stories, short stories, children’s stories, poems and haikus. So far, 18 of my literary works have been published. The main element that inspires my writing is my readers. Readers’ feedback on my writing encourages me to keep writing.

As the president of Samakalin Literary Academy, what initiatives or programmes do you prioritise to support aspiring writers and promote Nepali literature?

Samakalin Literary Academy has consistently supported contemporary Nepali language literature through its web magazine for the past seventeen years. In addition to this, the organisation also publishes the Prawasan Research Journal of Nepalese Literature. To foster the growth of Nepali literature, we regularly organise discussions and poetry events. Furthermore, there are plans to translate outstanding Nepali literary works into English to reach the global market in the future.

In the Prawasan Research Journal of Nepalese Literature, what criteria have you set for the selection of pieces?

This journal is dedicated to publishing articles that delve deep into topics such as language, literature and literary theories. We prioritise submissions that explore new or less explored subjects through rigorous research. Each article undergoes a thorough review process by experts in the field, who may suggest revisions to ensure quality and relevance. Articles that do not meet our criteria may be rejected. Our mission is to promote Nepali literature and advance literary research in our community.

How do you think being part of the Nepali diaspora in the UK has impacted your writing style or themes?

For 24 years, I’ve called Europe home. Even during my time in Nepal, I wrote and shared literature. While I’m known as a diasporic writer, not all my works fall under that label. Many simply hint at the diasporic flavour. Having experienced both societies and cultures, my writings offer insights into Nepal from afar and the lives of migrants like me. It’s a blend of my experiences in both countries, shaping my stories and poems in unique ways.

What challenges do Nepali writers face in the UK?

Nepali authors living in the UK do not primarily make a living from writing literature. Most people write in their hours of leisure. Creating profound literary works takes a lot of time. Due to everyday work, family and social responsibilities, not everyone finds the environment conducive to writing.

The main challenge for Nepali writers living in the UK is time management. Additionally, most books published in Nepal are not easily accessible here. As a result, Nepali authors who are employed overseas don’t fully get the trend of writing in Nepal. Due to the lack of direct or indirect dialogue and interaction with readers, Nepali authors who write books abroad may not receive suggestions or feedback from readers. The absence of opportunities for writing and self-improvement is also a challenge for authors here.

Krishna Bajgai’s book recommendations

Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind

Author: Yuval Noah Harari

Publisher: Penguin

Year: 2011

‘Sapiens’ provides an intriguing description of the development of modern humankind from prehistoric times. Along with insights into humanity’s history, the book discusses what the world’s future might look like.

Atomic Habits

Author: James Clear

Publisher: Penguin Books

Year: 2018

‘Atomic Habits’ teaches the practice of breaking down tasks into small chunks and regulating them consistently to achieve goals. It’s a practical guide that teaches how to change habits and gradually improve every day.

Long Walk to Freedom

Author: Nelson Mandela

Publisher: Abacus

Year: 1994

‘Long Walk to Freedom’ is an autobiography written by Nelson Mandela, the first black president of South Africa. It depicts his early life, struggles against apartheid and imprisonment.

The Alchemist

Author: Paulo Coelho

Publisher: HarperCollins

Year: 1988

This book is a simple yet intellectually inspiring story of a young boy. It is an example of how at any point in life, one can turn their dreams into reality. Coelho writes brilliantly about adventure and self-discovery.

The Kite Runner

Author: Khaled Hosseini

Publisher: Riverhead Books

Year: 2003

In this novel by an Afghan-American author based in America, themes of friendship, family, betrayal, war, redemption and liberation are explored. ‘The Kite Runner’ delivers a powerful message of human freedom.