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Poetry & Prose

Three Men Who Chose Differently

Caste has been detrimental but crucial to identity in Nepal. No aspect of society is untouched. For textbooks to quote Prithvi Narayan Shah—”Char jaat chhattis barna” is malicious: why force a paradox unto simple minds? There is no bigger farce than “unity in diversity” when the multitude is united only as a slaving horde, and diversity serves by marking ranks across which to distribute privileges. More»

Geeta in New York

Every morning, Geeta rose from her side of the bed as soon as Shiva closed the bathroom door with a light clasp. She then walked over to the kitchen and turned on the gas to make tea for her husband. Few words were exchanged in that early hour, except maybe an occasional, “Will you be late today?” from Geeta. More»

“Bikas ko Mul Futaun”

First it was enough to know Gideri and Kapra, Khanayo and Chiuri. Then came Alfa-Alfa. Makes buffalo give more milk, oxen become stronger. Cut now and there will be more in three weeks. More»

Curry Man

Sitting down to an all too expensive plate of Lamb Madras, I met a man today. He shied from me initially, but his Indian boss was quick to point him out and tell me‚ “he is Nepali, too.” I grinned instinctively; he shook a feeble hand despite my enthusiastic grasp. More»

Coup of Consciousness

Lentil lava belches in anticipation, spinach sizzles with blackened methi and crackling chilli. Ladled eagerly to the left to the right of steaming white basmati. Water cleanses right hand and fills a pint glass. Not to forget a spoonful of Pathak’s hot lime pickle. “No meat? Not at home, no, I get enough when I eat out trying to cut down you know?” More»