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There is an oft-repeated quote that goes like this: “Life is like a rollercoaster, but it’s your choice to scream or enjoy the ride.” It’s a quote that resonates with many of us, and I’m sure most of you have come across it at some point. Personally, I’ve used this quote many times, but its true meaning became apparent when I consciously started to notice my feelings. 

Today, I stand before you to share my journey of self-discovery and personal growth. I did an experiment where I noted down every single thought that crossed my mind for the past two weeks. I took a deep dive into self-reflection. I made it a point to write down my thoughts, feelings, and experiences that crossed my mind every day. I didn’t hold back—I wrote about the things that were bothering me the most, what made me happy, and the challenges I faced. It was like being on a rollercoaster, with ups and downs. There were moments of anxiety and times when I felt overwhelmed, but there were also little sparks of happiness. Through it all, I learned how powerful it is to focus on the positive side of life.

When I summed up what I had jotted down for the past two weeks, I realized that life is not always a bed of roses, and it is up to us to shape our perspective and find the silver linings in every situation. Let me share with you some of the feelings I noted down and the valuable lessons I learned along the way.

Firstly, anxiety seemed to show up more often than I would have preferred. There were mornings when I woke up with a racing heart, unsure of what was causing my anxiety. It felt like the weight of the world was on my shoulders, and my mind was filled with worries. I discovered that cortisol levels (stress hormones) are higher in the morning, which is why practicing meditation and mindfulness in the morning can help calm us down. By writing down my thoughts, I started to understand why I felt this way and faced it directly. I learned to take deep breaths, remind myself of my abilities and focus on the positive side of things. This helped me become more resilient and conquer my anxious thoughts.

Secondly, there were moments when I felt like I was going crazy. The daily pressures of life, work deadlines and responsibilities felt like an overwhelming burden, pushing me to the brink of my sanity. Some days, I felt lost and unproductive, causing me to fall behind on my tasks. However, amidst this chaos, I learned the value of self-care and self-compassion. I discovered that by taking small breaks, practicing mindfulness and taking care of my well-being, I could regain clarity and regain control over my thoughts. This project taught me how important it is to prioritize my mental health and find inner peace even in the midst of life’s chaos.

Lastly, there were moments of pure happiness that broke through the clouds. There were days when I woke up feeling energized and content. It was during these instances that I experienced the incredible power of positivity. By intentionally focusing on the positive aspects of my life, even the smallest ones, I could magnify those moments of joy. I came to understand that happiness is not a distant destination, but rather a state of mind. By cultivating gratitude and cherishing the simple pleasures, I was able to create a more meaningful and satisfying life.

Through my gratitude journal, I was constantly reminded that one of the things I am incredibly grateful for is my family. Their love and care are constants in my life, and I appreciate them deeply on a daily basis. They have been my rock, providing support and encouragement through all the ups and downs. Their presence brings me comfort, and their unwavering love fills my heart with warmth. This project reminded me to cherish and express my gratitude for my family, as their presence is truly a blessing in my life.

By focusing on the positive and jotting down my feelings, I have grown in immeasurable ways. I have learned to reframe my negative responses, to conquer my anxiety, to nurture my mental well-being, and to embrace the power of positivity. Life will always present challenges, but it is up to us to choose how we respond to them. I now understand that by focusing on the positive, we can find strength in adversity, joy in the mundane, and growth in every experience.

The quote—life is a rollercoaster—suggests that just as a rollercoaster can evoke a range of emotions such as excitement, fear and anticipation, life also presents us with a mix of experiences and emotions. It highlights the ever-changing nature of life and reminds us that we can’t always control or predict what will happen next.

All those who are reading this, I encourage each one of you to embark on your own journey of self-discovery. Take the time to reflect on your thoughts, emotions and experiences. Embrace the power of focusing on the positive side of life. Let us cultivate resilience, nurture our mental well-being and find happiness in the smallest of moments. Together, let us make the choice to embrace positivity and make a lasting impact on ourselves and those around us.

Babita Hamal is the Managing Director of Dusit Thani Himalayan Resort in Dhulikhel, owned by Om Stone Asia Capital Pvt Ltd. The resort, which opened in July 2023, is just over an hour’s drive from Tribhuvan International Airport and 25 km from Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. ApEx spoke with Hamal about the resort’s business and the broader hospitality sector.

What inspired you and your team to join the hospitality industry, and what has been  your journey so far with Dusit International? 

My husband had the privilege of leading several remarkable hospitality projects across  Southeast Asia, Africa and the Caribbean islands. After nearly 19 years abroad, we made the decision in 2016 to return to Nepal, driven by a desire to contribute meaningfully to our homeland. We have always believed that tourism holds the potential to transform Nepal, given the country’s abundant natural resources, rich biodiversity and vibrant culture. Particularly in rural areas, tourism projects serve a broader purpose by boosting the local economy and providing  employment opportunities to local communities. 

Dusit International’s commitment to excellence and their supportive team have been instrumental in our journey. The visionary leadership of the Group CEO, Suphajee Suthumpun, has been a  source of great inspiration, guiding us as we navigate this new industry. Their emphasis on  maintaining high standards and delivering exceptional service has resonated with our own values,  making Dusit the perfect partner for this flagship endeavor in Nepal. 

From the initial stages of planning to the grand opening and beyond, the entire Dusit team has  been with us every step of the way. This partnership has not only introduced a new standard of  hospitality in Nepal but has also allowed us to learn and grow, ensuring that our guests receive  an experience that is both unique and unforgettable. 

Dusit Thani Himalayan Resort is located in a unique setting in Dhulikhel. What was the vision behind choosing this location? 

Our goal was to create a sanctuary where guests can escape the hustle and bustle of  city life, yet remain connected with the cultural richness of Nepal. The location allows for easy  access to both the vibrant city life of Kathmandu and the tranquility of nature, making it an ideal  choice for our resort. Moreover, being the first international chain in this vicinity, we saw an  opportunity to bring Dusit International’s renowned hospitality and wellness expertise to a location that has historically been cherished for its tranquility and cultural heritage. 

Since the resort has been operational for about a year, what have been some of the  key challenges and successes you’ve experienced so far? 

Reflecting on the past year since the resort’s opening, we’ve encountered both challenges and significant successes that have shaped our journey.  

Tourism investments, particularly in a high-capital sector like ours, demand a long-term approach to investment recovery. One of the most significant challenges facing us, common among tourism investors in Nepal, is the country’s limited infrastructure. For instance, while our  resort is relatively close to Kathmandu, the road conditions make travel uncomfortable for our  guests. This highlights a critical area where government intervention is necessary, as inadequate  infrastructure impacts the entire tourism industry across Nepal.

Another key challenge has been managing human resources, particularly in the context of  finding skilled professionals, who align with our brand's ethos and high standards. On the success  front, our ability to blend Nepali and Thai hospitality traditions has resonated deeply with our  guests, resulting in high satisfaction rates and repeat visitors. The overwhelmingly positive response from both local and international guests, as well as recognition from esteemed platforms like TripAdvisor, has been incredibly rewarding. 

Sustainability is a major focus in the hospitality industry today. What initiatives has Dusit Thani Himalayan Resort implemented to promote sustainability and environmental responsibility? 

We’ve implemented a strict no-plastic policy and have an efficient waste management system to minimize our environmental footprint. By collaborating with local farmers, we source fresh, organic vegetables, supporting the community and reducing food miles. These efforts align with Dusit’s Four Gracious Pillars, ensuring that our commitment to sustainability is woven into every aspect of the guest experience. 

How does the resort engage with the local community, and what steps are being  taken to support local businesses and culture? 

We offer immersive experiences, such as village tours and visits to local farms, allowing  our guests to connect with and appreciate the rich culture and traditions of the area. Additionally, we're proud that more than 50 percent of our employees are hired locally, ensuring that our operations directly benefit the community and support local businesses. 

What are your future plans for Dusit Thani Himalayan Resort? Are there any new  projects or expansions on the horizon? 

We are excited to announce that we will be expanding our resort with additional 26 keys, set to open by Q4 2024. This will complete our project of 72 keys (86 rooms), allowing us to offer even more guests the opportunity to experience the unique beauty and serenity of our Himalayan retreat. 

Do you have any advice for aspiring hospitality professionals who wish to follow in  your footsteps? 

My advice would be to always put guest experiences at the forefront of your efforts. Empower your team to take ownership and innovate. Cultivate a culture of care and collaboration, and never stop learning and adapting to new trends and challenges in the industry.

Presumption of innocence, sometimes known as ‘innocent until proven guilty’, is a cornerstone of criminal justice systems around the globe. According to this theory, the prosecution has the burden of proof and an accused individual is presumed innocent until and until their innocence is established through a fair and impartial trial. It is both a defense against erroneous convictions and a necessary part of the right to a just trial. Presumption of innocence has its roots in Roman law, namely in the adage “Ei incumbit probatio qui dicit, non qui negat,” which states that “the burden of proof is on the one who declares, not on the one who denies.”

This idea became well-known in the late 18th century, thanks to the writings of legal scholars like Sir William Blackstone, who is credited with saying, “It is better that ten guilty persons escape than that one innocent suffer.” Over time, this idea persisted and shaped the evolution of contemporary legal frameworks. But it didn’t become well-known in European legal systems until the Enlightenment. Prominent thinkers like Voltaire and Cesare Beccaria fought for the rights of the accused, highlighting the need for fair trials and the presumption of innocence. A further testament to the presumption of innocence was the French Revolution's 1789 Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, which stated that “Every man is presumed innocent until he has been declared guilty.”

Legal structure

A number of important international law texts contain references to the presumption of innocence. According to Article 11 of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights, “Everyone charged with a penal offense has the right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty according to law in a public trial at which they have had all the guarantees necessary for their defense.” The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (1966) stipulates in Article 14(2) that “Everyone charged with a criminal offense shall have the right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty according to law.” 

Constitutional recognition 

The presumption of innocence is specifically recognized by a number of national constitutions and legal frameworks. For example: The United States Constitution’s Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments guarantee that no one will be deprived of their life, liberty, or property without first undergoing a fair legal process. According to Article 48 of the European Union’s Charter of Fundamental Rights, “Everyone who has been charged shall be presumed innocent until proven guilty according to law.”

Article 20(5) of the Constitution guarantees the fundamental constitutional right to be presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. In the same vein, the presumption of innocence in criminal cases is maintained by Section 12 of the National Penal Code, 2018. Therefore, in order to protect the integrity of the legal system, our hard-won liberties, and the dignity of the accused, criminal proceedings and the presentation of suspects urgently need to be changed. It is necessary to discontinue the widely used procedure whereby the Nepal Police parade detainees or individuals accused of minor offenses and issue statements, including information on the people they have detained, including pictures. The institution also needs to be cautious about the effects the practice might have on its investigations into the crime and the suspects, who might be found not guilty by the court. Thus, it is preferable to refrain from taking such rash decisions that can backfire and to inform the public and media until after the investigation is finished and the court issues a definitive ruling.

Principal’s significance

The protection provided by the assumption of innocence shields people from unfair allegations and incorrect convictions. It guarantees that the prosecution bears the burden of proof, having to prove the accused person’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This strict level of proof is necessary to prevent mistakes and preserve the public’s faith in the legal system. The idea of a fair trial is based on this notion. It ensures that the accused has the right to a defense, which includes the capacity to refute the prosecution’s case, have access to legal counsel, and submit evidence. The presumption of innocence protects the fairness and impartiality of the legal system by guaranteeing that the accused receives such treatment. 

In actuality, the presumption of innocent has several difficulties despite its significance:

Influence of the media, extensive media coverage in high-profile cases may cause the public to adopt conclusions about the accused’s guilt or innocence before the trial even ends. This phenomenon, sometimes referred to as ‘trial by media’, has the potential to compromise the trial’s impartiality and threaten the presumption of innocence.

Prior to trial retention, the presumption of innocence may be violated in some jurisdictions where people are detained in pre-trial custody for protracted periods of time. The fact that being detained alone may lead to feelings of guilt emphasizes the necessity for legal systems to strike a balance between the rights of the accused and public safety.

Practical and legal obstacles, reverse onus provisions—which transfer the burden of proof to the accused under certain conditions—may undermine the presumption of innocence in some judicial systems. It is important to closely examine these exclusions to make sure that they don’t compromise fundamental rights.

Presumption of innocence is a fundamental tenet of legal systems all throughout the world. It guarantees that no one is unfairly punished, and that the integrity of the legal system is upheld. Although there are still obstacles in the way of completely implementing this idea, its continuous inclusion in legislative frameworks emphasizes how crucial it is to preserving the rule of law and safeguarding human rights. Presumption of innocence is a fundamental safeguard in the criminal justice system that helps to ensure that people are not unfairly convicted and that justice is served. It sustains the public's faith in the legal system and supports the fundamental human right to a fair trial. But in order to prevent this principle from being undermined by the media, pre-trial procedures, and legislative changes, constant watchfulness is required.

Shree Krishna Janmashtami, the birthday of Lord Krishna, is being celebrated by the Hindus throughout the country today with devotion and veneration amidst a variety of programs.

According to scriptures, Lord Shree Krishna was born in the midnight of Bhadrakrishna Ashtami day as per the lunar calendar during the Dwapar era.

Lord Krishna is considered as the incarnation of Lord Bishnu, the protector of human beings from evil, injustice and devilish forces. He is also regarded as the proponent of the three principles of Gyanayog, Karmayog and Bhaktiyog.

Shree Krishna Janmastami is celebrated to cherish the good deeds of Lord Krishna for a happy and prosperous life. Lord Krishna, born to Basudev and Devaki and held prisoner by Kansha in Mathura, guided humanity on the path of knowledge, truth and immortality, the legend says.

Lord Krishna is also known as "Gopal" for his dedicated service to the cows as a herder. He is also known as "Manmohan" for the melodies he used to play on his flute, charming everyone.

Devotees throng the temples of Lord Krishna including the famous Shree Krishna Temple of Mangal Bazaar in Lalitpur. The renowned and artistic Shree Krishna Temple made up of stones was built by the then King of Patan, Siddhi Narsingh Malla.

Various religious organizations and institutions celebrate the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna by organizing colorful processions with the idols of Lord Krishna flanked by decorative portraits.

Devotees, especially women, spend the night chanting prayers and devotional songs, dancing and lighting oil-fed lamps.