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Thirty-year-old Padam Jung Kunwar, founder of the fast food chain ‘Daddy’s Kitchen’, has been in the hospitality business since he was 19. While many youngsters have left Nepal in search of better employment opportunities, Kunwar stands out as a true trailblazer in the industry, thanks to his unrelenting pursuit of excellence, creativity, and unwavering dedication. He received the ‘Captivating Creation Award 2023’. Kunwar’s entrepreneurial journey began with the hospitality industry in Butwal, his hometown, in 2013. Later, he co-founded ‘Daddy’s Kitchen’ with his uncle and the president of the company Kamal Jung Kunwar, whom he considers his mentor. “We started as street vendors,” he says. And it was a struggle to take their business from fast food trucks to several fine-dine restaurants. He claims that initially he was reluctant about doing business on the streets. But later, when the business took off, it boosted his confidence.  As a result, now they operate 14 outlets under ‘Daddy’s Kitchen’, namely ‘Daddy’s Kitchen Food truck’, ‘Cooker Coffee’, ‘Papaya’ and ‘Hipat’ in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Butwal. “For the business to be successful, the vibe of every eatery location needs to be analyzed,” he says, “It needs to make people feel good and welcomed.” He claims that every time he hunts for a location, the first thing he considers is the location’s potential and market niche. He shares how Cooker Coffee in Tinkune, Kathmandu, was the first and only café in the area.  But now, as he expected, there are already more than 15 eateries close by, and they are usually bustling with people. Also, he has a particular taste when it comes to his restaurants’ interior design. It is often minimal, rustic, and environment-friendly. In their outlets, they use paper straws/cups and recycled tools for decoration. Also, he says that all his outlets are unique when it comes to service, menu, and designs. He also takes into account every tiny detail from plating the dishes to planning the decor with partners. Kunwar has expanded his business while maintaining his passion for interior design and selecting innovative cuisine. And he supervises all the outlets. When it comes to what he wants for his company, he is quite specific and determined. He mentions how he used to be hesitant and not very conversational in the past and that time and experience have changed him to become how he is today. He believes one of his greatest accomplishments in the entrepreneurial journey has been the shaping of his personality. It was hard for Kunwar to maintain his business during the Covid-19 pandemic. He was busy analyzing the crisis that the Covid-19 brought on his business in terms of timely rent payment and handling salaries. At that time, he gathered family members and they worked together to continue their food deliveries and takeaways while adhering to the covid protocols. The experience taught them valuable lessons on how they could give their business a boost by working on delivery and takeaway systems. In Nepal, brain drain has been a problem for more than a decade. But Kunwar stands as hope for many youths. “Being able to serve my own county is what I count as my biggest accomplishment,” he says. In addition, he has been supporting many other small-scale Nepali businesses. For Cooker Coffee, he has been purchasing local coffees from Gulmi, Syangja, Arghakhanchi, Sindhupalchok, and Kavrepalanchok. He has culturally-focused ideas and is keenly aware of the emerging trends. The idea for Cooker coffee originated from the fact that coffees were traditionally made in a cooker in his hometown. To ensure that he offers excellent service, he checks reviews and ratings on social media and Google. However, he claims that due to inflation and monetary crises, 70 percent of Kathmandu’s restaurants are up for sale. The food industry is becoming more competitive. But thankfully, Daddy’s Group has been doing well. He thinks that doing business in Kathmandu is a lot more challenging than in other cities. He claims that they had to stop operating two stores because of the new street vendor and underground parking policies adopted by Kathmandu Metropolitan City. However, Kunwar recognizes it as his learnings for the future. His dream is to expand his brand to the international market. Kunwar hopes more youths will come up with innovative ideas for startups. There will be hardships and struggles but it will all be worth it in the end, he says.

Marxism has a lengthy and intricate history in Nepal, dating back to the formation of the first communist party in 1949. Over time, Nepal has witnessed various manifestations of Marxist movements, including the People’s War led by the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) from 1996 to 2006, which ultimately resulted in the establishment of a republic and the elimination of the monarchy. Marxism has played a significant role in Nepal’s political landscape, particularly during the Maoist insurgency that ravaged the country for a decade. The Comprehensive Peace Agreement of 2006 marked a pivotal moment, ending the armed conflict and paving the way for a democratic republic. Subsequently, the Communist Party of Nepal (CPN), a Marxist-Leninist party, rose to prominence and became a dominant force in Nepali politics. In the present day, as Nepal undergoes a period of political transition, the challenge for Marxist movements is to uphold democracy amidst a changing environment. This entails grappling with complex issues such as economic development, social inequality, and political power, while also ensuring the protection of democratic principles and civil liberties. One of the main challenges Marxism faces in Nepal is the tension between revolutionary ideals and democratic institutions. While Marxism has traditionally been associated with revolutionary change and the overthrow of existing power structures, Nepal’s reality is that democratic institutions have taken root and are perceived as legitimate by a majority of the population. This means that any Marxist movement must engage with these institutions and operate within the framework of the democratic system, rather than seeking to overthrow it. Another challenge lies in reconciling economic development with social justice. Nepal is one of the poorest countries in Asia, with a GDP per capita of just over $1,000. While economic growth is a top priority for the Nepali government, concerns arise that this growth may come at the expense of social justice and environmental sustainability. Marxist movements must confront these issues and find ways to promote economic development while ensuring that the benefits are distributed equitably and sustainably. Simultaneously, Marxist movements in Nepal must confront the legacy of the People’s War. While the overthrow of the monarchy and the establishment of a republic were significant achievements, the conflict also led to significant human rights abuses and a breakdown of democratic institutions. Any Marxist movement seeking power in Nepal must address these issues and demonstrate a commitment to upholding civil liberties and democratic norms. Professor Chaitanya Mishra’s book ‘Loktantra Ra Aajako Marxbad’ explores the challenges faced by Marxism in Nepal and the need to address them. Mishra argues that Nepal’s current political landscape is characterized by a complex interplay of various factors, including democracy, capitalism, globalization, and regionalism. One of the primary challenges for Marxism in Nepal is to reconcile its ideological roots with the changing political and economic realities of the country. Marxism has traditionally been associated with the struggle against capitalism, but Nepal’s current political landscape is increasingly shaped by capitalist forces. To uphold democracy, Marxism needs to find ways to engage with these forces without compromising its core values. Another challenge is addressing the growing influence of regionalism in Nepal’s politics. The country’s diverse ethnic groups possess distinct identities and aspirations, and Marxism needs to find ways to address these aspirations while maintaining its commitment to a unified Nepal. However, the transition from armed struggle to democratic governance has not been without difficulties. Today, the challenge lies in maintaining a harmonious relationship between Marxist ideals and democratic principles. According to experts like Mishra, the crux of this challenge lies in striking a delicate balance between the collective aspirations advocated by Marxism and the protection of individual rights inherent in democracy. Marxism emphasizes collective ownership and equitable distribution of resources to foster social justice, while democracy focuses on individual rights, freedom of expression, and competitive elections. The challenge arises when these two ideologies clash, demanding a nuanced approach to preserve democracy while addressing the concerns of marginalized communities. One of the primary concerns in Nepal’s current political climate is the consolidation of power within the Communist Party of Nepal. Initially, the CPN played a crucial role in the democratic process, advocating for the rights of marginalized communities and pushing for socio-economic reforms. However, concerns have emerged regarding the party’s commitment to democratic principles as time has progressed. Mishra highlights the importance of respecting fundamental rights, such as freedom of the press, an independent judiciary, and a pluralistic political landscape, in maintaining a thriving democracy. Unfortunately, instances have been observed where these principles have been undermined, raising questions about the CPN’s dedication to upholding democratic values. The concentration of power within a single party also raises concerns about the erosion of checks and balances in Nepal’s democracy. As power becomes increasingly centralized, the space for dissenting voices and opposition parties diminishes, creating an environment that stifles democratic progress. The absence of robust checks and balances presents a significant challenge, necessitating the establishment of an inclusive and accountable democratic framework. To overcome these challenges, Mishra suggests fostering a culture of constructive dialogue and democratic debate within the country. He emphasizes the need to safeguard democratic institutions and ensure that power remains decentralized and accountable to the people. A pluralistic political landscape that respects the diversity of ideas and promotes healthy competition between parties is crucial for a vibrant democracy. Democracy, in its essence, is not merely an end in itself but a means to achieve a just society. Professor Mishra asserts that Nepal must strike a balance between Marxism’s emphasis on social justice and democracy’s commitment to individual freedoms. This delicate equilibrium can be achieved through a comprehensive and inclusive approach that acknowledges the rights of all citizens while addressing the socio-economic disparities prevalent in the country. Overall, the challenge facing Marxism in Nepal today is to navigate the complex political landscape while upholding its core values of democracy and equality. Mishra’s book provides valuable insight into these challenges and offers a way forward for Marxism in Nepal. Finally, Marxist movements in Nepal must also contend with geopolitical forces that seek to shape the country’s political future. Nepal is situated between two of the world’s largest powers, India and China, both of which have significant economic and strategic interests in the region. This means that any Marxist movement must navigate a complex geopolitical landscape and find ways to promote Nepal’s interests while maintaining its independence and sovereignty. In conclusion, the challenge facing Marxism in Nepal today is to uphold democracy in a changing landscape. This involves engaging with democratic institutions, promoting economic development while ensuring social justice and environmental sustainability, addressing the legacy of the People’s War, and navigating a complex geopolitical landscape. While these challenges are significant, they also present opportunities for Marxist movements to demonstrate their commitment to democratic values and to promote a more just and equitable society in Nepal. The author is pursuing BA LLB at Kathmandu School of Law

‘Gumraah’, available on Netflix, is a captivating whodunit in which the identity of the killer is unveiled right at the start. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes evident that there is more to it than meets the eye. Two individuals, both identical, vehemently deny their involvement in the murder, leaving the audience perplexed. The Hindi-language thriller ‘Gumraah’ is an official remake of the Tamil sleeper hit movie ‘Thadam,’ starring Arun Vijay, which was also remade into Telugu as ‘Red,’ featuring Ram Pothineni. Drawing inspiration from true stories of similar crimes, the movie retains its mind-boggling suspense until the end. As I had watched both the South Indian versions, I approached Gumraah with a sense of skepticism. Bollywood has, on one too many occasions, failed to do justice to remakes, diluting the essence of the original movies. But I’m delighted to share that the makers of ‘Gumraah’ have not only succeeded in adapting the movie effectively but have also managed to preserve its intrigue, thrill, and suspense. The outstanding performance of Aditya Roy Kapoor, who is seen in the lead role, deserves a special mention. Kapoor, an underrated talent of Bollywood, has yet to find his rightful place in Hindi cinema. In ‘Gumraah’, he seizes the opportunity to showcase his acting prowess, convincingly playing the tricky doppelganger suspects, Arjun Saigal and Ronnie. He effortlessly navigates the complexities of these two contrasting characters, infusing them with distinct emotions that leave a lasting impact on the audience. Director Vardhan Ketkar’s sharp vision and meticulous execution, combined with the screenplay by Aseem Arora and Magizh Thirumeni, successfully recreate the drama and suspense of the original Tamil movie. ‘Gumraah’ effectively uses flashbacks to build its narrative, keeping the viewers on the edge of their seats. While there may be a few instances where certain scenes feel a little sluggish, the overall impact is overshadowed by the commendable performances and skillful filmmaking. Furthermore, Vineet Malhotra’s cinematography adds another layer of depth to the storytelling. His adept use of lighting, shadows, and framing enhances the mood of the movie, creating an atmosphere of tension and uncertainty. The juxtaposition of vibrant colors with somber tones further intensifies the visual experience, perfectly complementing the narrative’s dark and mysterious nature. Malhotra'’ contribution significantly elevates the overall quality of ‘Gumraah’, making it a visually captivating thriller. The movie’s focus on two suspects who bear an uncanny resemblance poses a unique challenge for the writers and director in maintaining the delicate balance of guilt and innocence. However, they skillfully navigate this challenge, masterfully crafting a narrative that keeps the audience guessing until the climactic revelation. For viewers who have not watched the earlier versions, ‘Gumraah’ offers a special treat as the unexpected outcome makes an unnerving impact. In addition to Kapoor’s standout performance, the supporting cast delivers commendable portrayals. Mrunal Thakur shines as Sub Inspector Shivani Mathur, a headstrong and determined cop assigned to investigate the case. Thakur embodies the role with conviction, portraying a character who refuses to back down in the face of adversity. Ronit Roy impresses as ACP Dhiren Yadava, a conniving officer with a personal vendetta against Arjun, willing to compromise his morals and ethics to ensure his incarceration. Who should watch it? ‘Gumraah’ is a gripping thriller that appeals to both those unfamiliar with the earlier versions and those who have seen the Tamil or Telugu adaptations. With Aditya Roy Kapoor’s stellar portrayal of the doppelgangers, coupled with the movie’s engaging storyline and skillful direction, it offers a riveting cinematic experience. The added dimension brought by Vineet Malhotra’s cinematography further enhances the movie’s visual appeal. If you’re in search of an enthralling whodunit with a captivating climax, ‘Gumraah’ should be at the top of your watchlist. Gumraah Rating: 3.5 stars Genre: Crime thriller Director: Vardhan Ketkar Actors: Aditya Roy Kapoor, Mrunal Thakur, Ronit Roy Rune time: 2hrs 7mins  

I had been looking for ‘In My Dreams I Hold a Knife’ ever since I first heard about it but I only recently got my hands on a copy. The book, I believe, lives up to the hype it received on Good Reads and BookTube—it has a 3.91 rating on Good Reads and so many BookTubers rave about it, calling it one of their best reads of 2021. It has suspense, intrigue, and drama, and the story unfolds beautifully, creating a tense environment you can’t (or don’t want to) escape. About six friends who meet during a college reunion 10 years after graduation, the narrative of In My Dreams I Hold a Knife alternates between the past and the present, which makes the story even more compelling. Winstead’s debut novel is an engrossing tale of love, lust, obsession, and murder, set against a fascinating backdrop of an elite university. 10 years ago, Jessica Miller and her friends, a group known as the ‘East House Seven’, suffered a horrific tragedy when one of their own was brutally murdered in her dorm room. Heather Shelby was stabbed to death while she was sleeping. The incident brought some of them closer but also tore others apart. Now, Jessica is returning to Duquette University and she wants to prove to her classmates that despite what happened, she has managed to do well in life. But Heather’s brother is determined to figure out what happened to his sister and has plans of his own for Jessica and her friends. I found the characters to be interesting, albeit a bit whiny and thus unlikable. Jessica feels like a central character but the others don’t seem like side characters either. Everyone seems integral to the story. It’s also interesting to see the story unfold from different perspectives. For a while, you walk in someone else’s shoes, and see things through someone else’s eyes and it’s fascinating. The good thing about the plot is that you can’t make up your mind about what might have happened. Just when you think things must have gone a certain way, something happens to make you doubt your thoughts. You will either love or hate ‘In My Dreams I Hold a Knife’ depending on what you are looking for or want from a story. If you are just looking for some suspense-filled time, you are in for a treat. But if a relatable story is what you want when you pick up a book, this might not be for you. https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/50485649 Three and a half stars In My Dreams I Hold a Knife Ashley Winstead Published: 2021 Publisher: Source Books Pages: 326, Paperback