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We spend a small fortune and a lot of time decorating our homes but often forget the staircase area. It’s the first thing guests see when they walk into a house. Forget guests, you see it daily. You would love for it to look nice. It’s not negligence but a lack of ideas that makes most of us turn a blind eye to this space. But with a little creativity, you can turn a utility space into your home’s focal point. Here are some ideas to help you inject a dose of style into a functional space.  

Add a stair runner

Stair runners are the easiest way to add charm to your granite, wooden, or tile stairs. It can create visual interest as well as serve as padding to minimize falls and injuries. You can find them in a variety of patterns, colors, and styles. Consider a jute runner if you have an all-white space to add some texture to it. Add some oomph into a neutral space by adding a runner in a bright, vibrant hue. You can also match your runner to the living room rug.

Create a gallery wall

Hang your favorite prints, photos, and artwork along the length of the wall along the stairs and you have a unique gallery wall that makes the stairs more than something you use to get from point A to point B. You can also display your travel treasures in box frames. Choose the same color frames if you want a cohesive look or mix and match frames in different colors for an eclectic charm.

Consider shelving units

Shelves are a great way to display items, store things, and add intrigue to any space. We often don’t consider shelves in the staircase area. But open shelves on the landing or even along the wall opposite the stairs can be used to showcase and store photos, knickknacks, and books. You can also place candles, and flower vases and pots to lend it a regal touch. Just make sure the shelves aren’t too broad and just big enough to hold little items.

Place some large houseplants

Plants bring an element of nature into your home. Each plant has its own requirement and most need to be placed in areas that get enough light and air. However, some plants thrive in low-light areas. Consider placing these in the staircase area. Don’t keep too many to avoid clutter. Place a tall one or two, in a cool ceramic or metal planter at one corner. A lush Fiddle Fig can be a great option.

Replace the light fixture

A stunning chandelier or interesting set of sconces might be the finishing touches your stairwell is missing. The stairs are a great place to play with lights and place large hanging light fixtures because of the extra height of the ceiling. If your stairs are dark, place lights along the length of it. The battery-operated ones can be a good solution if you don’t want wires running along the stairs. You can also add mirrors to reflect light in the space. You get mirror tiles in the market these days that you can simply stick in a desired pattern.

Make a cozy nook

The landing doesn’t have to be boring and mundane. Create a cozy reading or nap nook by adding a low-seater sofa or simply putting some large cushions on the floor and then doing it up with throws and pillows. It can be a space for your pet to relax. Alternatively, create an elegant and enviable vignette by adding a side table along with décor items like statues or large vases. This can be a space for you to drop your keys and other knick knacks as you go up to your bedroom. If your staircase has the space, the key is to make the most of available alcoves by adding pleasing furniture and decor.

Writer Ranju Dahal’s new book, ‘Dohodoho Dolpo,’ was launched on Friday at Shilpee Theater Battisputali. Dahal shares her experiences and reflections from her travels in the Dolpa region in this book. Her first book, ‘Priyasangako Yatra,’ was published in 2075 BS.

‘Dohodoho Dolpo’ is the culmination of her extensive 10-day journey through Nepal’s largest district. She presents Dolpa as an expansive realm for personal growth and education. The book comprises ten travel essays, capturing both the natural splendor and the geographical challenges, scarcity, and remoteness of Dolpa.

The book was collectively launched by critics Rajkumar Baniya and Gyanu Adhikari, Poet Babu Tripathi, Litterateur Bhuwanhari Sigdel, Publisher Keshab Prasad Parajuli, along with the author herself and her husband, Bijaykumar Upadhyay. Published by Bhudipuran Prakashan, the book spans 159 pages and is priced at Rs 290.

Holi or the festival of colors, is being celebrated with much fanfare in hilly areas, including the capital city today while tomorrow in Tarai region.

The Phagu Poornima celebration begins with a Holika dahan or making a bonfire commemorating the death of Holika on the eve of Holi, the symbol of triumph of good over evil. The next day, people enjoy smearing one another with different colors including abir or red vermilion powder.

Among various cultural festivals celebrated in Nepal, the Phagu Poornima carries its own specialty and significance. People from old to young enjoy the festival with enthusiasm.

One of the widely observed festivals of the country, Phagu Poornima begins on the eighth day of the new moon and ends with burning of the 'Chir', which was installed earlier, on the full moon day later today.

According to a Hindu myth, demon king Hiranyakashyapu who was unhappy with his son Prahlad for his wholehearted devotion to the God Bishnu ordered his sister Holika to kill Prahalad. Following her brother's instruction Holika who had a boon from the god that fire would not harm her sat on a fire by taking Prahlad on her lap, but was burnt to death while Prahalad remained unhurt due to the blessing of God Bishnu.

From then onwards, the festival also known as Holi is celebrated by smearing colors with enjoyment. There is also a saying that Lord Bishnu had told Holika that the boon she had received would be meaningless if it was misused.

Senior people believe that any premonitions can be avoided if "Tika '' made from the ashes of the 'Chir' is put on one's forehead or kept in the house.

The government has announced a public holiday on this day.

Dhirendra Premarshi, an expert on the cultures of Nepal, said that Holi festival has played an important role in minimizing inequality and discrimination in the society.

Meanwhile, the District Police Range Kathmandu has said that the security apparatus has been strengthened to avoid any untoward incidents during the Holi festival.

More than 400 police personnel have been deployed for security in the valley alone, Senior Superintendent of Police Dineshraj Mainali of Kathmandu Valley Police Office said.

I’m 36 years old and I want to reconnect with my family. It’s been tough. Despite my efforts, it feels like they don’t appreciate me or understand what I’m going through. The lack of support leaves me feeling isolated and unappreciated, which makes it hard to be motivated at work. My job has been demanding with deadlines piling up and increasing expectations. I find it hard to concentrate when my mind is constantly worried about my family and the strained relationship among us. Balancing the demands of my career with the desire to reconnect with my loved ones feels like an impossible task. It’s taking a toll on my mental and emotional well-being. What can I do?

Answered by Shravasti Tuladhar, Psychosocial counselor

The desire to reconnect with your family while feeling a lack of support and understanding is a heavy weight to carry. Naturally, this is impacting your work and overall well-being. Family is often the cornerstone of our support system, and their absence can be isolating. We are social creatures, and strong social connections are vital for our well-being. When those relationships feel unstable, it can be difficult to focus on other areas of life, like work. But the fact that you’ve reached out for help shows immense strength.

You’ve identified the issue and are taking steps to address it, and that’s something to be proud of. There seem to be two major challenges in your life. The lack of connection with your family is causing emotional strain and making it difficult to find motivation at work. The demanding work environment and your worries about your family are creating a stressful imbalance.

First, consider what you truly need and expect from your family. What kind of relationship would feel most supportive to you? Are there specific actions you would like from them? Open communication can be key. Try to have a heart-to-heart conversation with your family. Share how you’re feeling about the lack of connection and what it means to you. Listen to their perspective as well, and try to understand their needs and feelings. Remember that rebuilding trust takes time and effort. Start with small gestures and activities to strengthen the bond, and be patient with the progress.

Setting boundaries at work can help. Prioritize tasks and learn to politely decline taking on more than you can handle. Freeing up mental space will allow you to focus on your family matters. Self-care is also essential. Taking care of yourself will give you the strength to deal with other challenges. Find activities that nourish you, whether it’s exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature.

Remember, you don’t have to do this alone. Lean on any support system you already have (friends, colleagues) while you reconnect with your family. Change takes time and effort. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if the situation feels overwhelming or you need additional guidance. A therapist can help you develop communication skills, manage stress, and navigate complex family dynamics.

The Pivot Year

Biranna West

Self Help 

This is the year you change your life. If you’re in a pivot period—if you’re still bridging the space between where you are and where you want to be—remember that the person you’re becoming is already within you. The journey is convincing your mind to act consistently on what your heart already knows it wants to do. The Pivot Year is a book of 365 daily meditations on finding the courage to become who you’ve always wanted to be.

The Do-Over

Lynn Painter

Romance / YA 

Emilie is stuck in some sort of time loop nightmare that she can’t wake up from as she re-watches her boyfriend, Josh, cheating on her day after day. In addition to Josh’s recurring infidelity, Emilie can’t get away from the enigmatic Nick, who she keeps running into—sometimes literally—in unfortunate ways. How many days can one girl passively watch her life go up in flames? And when something good starts to come out of these terrible days, what happens when the universe stops doling out do-overs?

The Book of Doors

Gareth Brown

Fantasy 

In New York City, bookseller Cassie Andrews is living an unassuming life when she is given a gift by a favorite customer. It’s an unusual book, full of strange writing and mysterious drawings. And at the front, there is a handwritten message to Cassie, telling her that this is the Book of Doors, and that any door is every door. What Cassie is about to discover is that the Book of Doors is a special book that bestows extraordinary powers on whoever possesses it, and soon she and her best friend Izzy are exploring all that the Book of Doors can do.

South Korea Ambassador to Nepal Park Tae-Young paid a courtesy call on Finance Minister Barshaman Pun on Friday.

During the meeting, matters related to bilateral interests and mutual cooperation were discussed, the Finance Minister's secretariat shared.

In the meeting held at the Ministry of Finance today, Minister Pun said that Korea has been continuously investing in Nepal's infrastructure development, education, health and agriculture sectors.

On the occasion, Finance Minister Pun urged Ambassador Park to prod Korean investors for their significant participation in the Investment Summit of Nepal to be organized next month.

The country's development would not be possible without bringing international investments, Minister Pun said, adding the government was working to remove legal and policy hurdles to create an environment for the same.

Sharing that Nepal has potentials for investment in agriculture, energy, tourism and technology sectors, the Minister said the country has a lot to learn from South Korea's development model.

Ambassador Park said Korea would continue the previous development partnership programs and employment promotion system (EPS).

South Korea is interested to make further investment in Nepal on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Nepal-Korea diplomatic relations.

The CPN-UML has decided not to participate in the Socialist Front.

After holding a meeting with Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal on Friday afternoon, UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli said that they would not participate in the Socialist Front.

When asked what did the two leaders discuss in the meeting?

Oli said that he discussed contemporary political issues with Prime Minister Dahal. The two leaders discussed Nepali Congress’s House obstruction and transitional justice bill among other issues, the Prime Minister’s private secretariat said.

Earlier this morning, a meeting of the four-party front was held in Baluwatar.

During the meeting, a discussion was held to include the UML in the front.

Prime Minister Dahal was authorized to hold a discussion with Chairman Oli and to include the UML in the front.

Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal and CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli held a meeting on Friday. The Prime Minister’s Secretariat said that they held a discussion in Singha Durbar.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Dahal and UML Chairman Oli discussed Common Minimum Program, transitional justice process, by-election to be held on April 27 and House obstruction among other issues, Prime Minister Dahal’s press advisor Govinda Acharya said.

According to him, Prime Minister Dahal and Chairman Oli also discussed participating other political parties in the government.

Earlier this morning, a meeting of the four-party front was held in Baluwatar.

During the meeting, a discussion was held to include the UML in the front.

Prime Minister Dahal has been authorized to hold a discussion with Chairman Oli and to include the UML in the front.

The Prime Minister had informed Oli about this. But Oli has not given clear answer about joining the front, a source said.