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Five-year-old Reeyaz Pudasaini embodies a generation absorbed in virtual realms. His leisure hours are dominated by mobile games, a habit spanning several years. Struggling academically and frequently embroiled in conflicts, he has become a recluse, avoiding any companionship. “I am comfortable alone,” he shares. “I get mad whenever my parents or siblings bother me.”

The allure of digital victories on mobile games has consumed him, replacing human connections. His digital addiction has blurred the line between reality and the virtual world.  Recognizing the seriousness of his behavior, a school counselor is trying to help Reeyaz adjust his attitude and make him more sociable. These days, he is taking up guitar and swimming lessons.

The story of Reeyaz is far from unique, with a prevailing trend seen across the country.  A parallel narrative emerges through Arika Dahal's story. Obsessed with online appearance and popularity, the twelve-year-old began contemplating cosmetic surgery to fix her nose and lips. Worried, her parents had to take her to a counselor.  

“She used to be the top student in her class,” says her father Anjan. “Her descent started after I made the mistake of giving her a mobile phone. She got hooked into TikTok which gave her the idea about beauty standards.”

In a world where self-alteration is just a click away, reality distorts. With the help of her counselor Arika is on the journey to self-acceptance, signaling a transformation from distorted self-perception to embracing one's uniqueness.  The tales of Reeyaz and Arika demonstrate how modern parents are enabling the digital addiction of their children by handing them smartphones at a very young age. They do not realize that the damaging allure of screens beckons even the youngest ones. 

In a paradoxical pursuit of solace, parents furnish the tech-enabled stimuli to their children that inadvertently subvert their growth. Experts decry this parental blind spot, urging due diligence in curating a virtual milieu befitting the developmental contours of the young minds. They say by fostering open conversations, parents can facilitate healthy digital practices, allowing children to explore while safeguarding their emotional well-being.

“Parents and teachers should be aware about the cognitive disorders of excess social media use on children. They must teach children safe online practices,” says Namrata Thapa, child psychologist.  “Children who spend too much time using online media may be exposed to a subtype of behavior known as Problematic Internet Use. Heavy gamers are at risk for Internet gaming disorder, where they have little interest in real-life or real-life relationships.”

Adolescents ensnared in the digital labyrinth exhibit anemic predilections for offline interactions, distorting the primal tenets of socializing. This curious paradox augments vulnerability, perpetuating a vicious cycle wherein the digital shelter belies a subtler kind of isolation.

Technology’s impact stretches beyond the psychological realm. The invasion of smartphones into sleep patterns affect young minds that require rejuvenation. The ergonomic impact, manifesting in neck and back discomfort, mirrors an unhealthy lifestyle driven by screen time.

In the world woven with digital threads, a generation's fate hangs precariously. As guardians, as society, the responsibility is clear: to tether children's soaring dreams and boundless curiosity to the shores of informed guidance. The digital realm is a canvas of both possibility and peril, which demands vigilance, dialogue, and above all, the preservation of childhood's innocence.

Things to do for your child’s digital wellbeing:

• Be aware of online risks: Parents and guardians should be aware of the risks associated with children using online platforms. Teach children about online safety, privacy settings, and responsible behavior on social media.

• Age-appropriate content: Ensure that children are exposed to age-appropriate content on the internet. Guide your children in using technology and consuming content that is suitable for their age.

• Promote balanced screen time: Encourage a healthy balance between online and offline activities. Excessive screen time can have negative effects on physical and mental health.

• Balance social media use: Instead of outright banning social media, teach children how to use it responsibly and safely. Discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of social media use.

Encourage offline activities: Encourage children to engage in outdoor activities, hobbies, and real-life interactions to foster a healthy balance between online and offline experiences.

“This is a garden of all castes, everybody should acknowledge it. Everybody from all the four Jat (Caste) and thirty-six Barna (creed) should protect and promote this garden.” The words of King Prithvi Narayan Shah are relevant today. In a world beset by religious and ethnic strife, Nepal's exceptional degree of religious tolerance stands as a testament to its unity in diversity.

But recent events in Eastern Nepal, specifically in Dharan, have raised apprehensions about the stability of this harmonious equilibrium. Disturbing attempts to undermine social and religious cohesion have emerged, which calls for vigilant oversight by the authorities. While immediate crisis may have been averted, the nascent situation remains susceptible to manipulation through the powerful medium of social media.

The constitution of 2015 has enshrined the rights of all castes and communities to practice their faiths and preserve their cultures, safeguarding these liberties from encroaching on the rights of others. Legal frameworks have also been established, delineating the boundaries for all ethnic and religious groups.

Unfortunately, the proliferation of social media has exacerbated the situation, as malicious actors exploit these platforms to disseminate false information and fan the flames of violence. Certain self-proclaimed religious figures have unabashedly amplified their divisive rhetoric, exacerbating tensions through the online sphere. While safeguarding freedom of expression is paramount, authorities must exercise discretion in curbing objectionable content that could incite turmoil.

The specter of external forces seeking to sow discord cannot be dismissed. The collective appeal for calm and unity by political leaders, including Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal, demonstrate the gravity of the situation. Government agencies must remain vigilant and intervene if such machinations threaten the social fabric.

In these trying times, the imperative to preserve our cherished tradition of harmonious coexistence is clear. Diligent oversight, unity among diverse factions and a steadfast commitment to maintaining the rich tapestry of Nepali society stand as the bulwarks against divisive forces seeking to erode its unity.

Picture the astonishment on a traveler’s face as he witnesses a waiter at a traditional Kathmandu restaurant handling a glass of flaming raksi. Even a tentative sip of this potent, age-old distilled alcoholic concoction can prompt any newcomer to exclaim, ‘Incredible, that’s remarkably robust!’

These ‘traditional’ eateries also serve a concoction known as aila. Crafted by the Newar community, aila appears to possess even more potency than paa (of Gurungs), aairak (of Tamanags), hengma (of Bantawas), sijongwaa aara (of Limbus), and raankau madda (of Magars).

Speaking of traditional raksi reminds me of the occasion when Nepali raksi secured the 41st spot in CNN World’s prestigious compilation of the 50 most delectable beverages. Tim Cheung, a CNN travel correspondent, eloquently described raksi as an alcoholic elixir crafted from millet or rice, characterized by its potent aroma and a scorching sensation upon consumption, which mellows into an unexpectedly smooth and velvety experience. This homemade elixir becomes a cherished indulgence during festivities, with some regarding the drink itself as the cause for celebration.

Every connoisseur of spirits visiting Nepal invariably develops an affinity for our indigenous alcoholic creations. Yet, it appears that we have yet to truly honor our raksi and jaad. The state’s imposition of prohibition, as stipulated by the madira (alcohol) Act of 2031, demands individuals to obtain a state license for home-brewing—a financial burden out of reach for many communities.

A Supreme Court verdict permits the annual production of up to 30 liters for family consumption. Regions like Gandaki and Lumbini Provinces have taken the initiative to legally brand local raksi. Bhirkot Municipality in Syangja has even escalated matters by embarking on the production and branding of raksi. While politicians vocalize the need for branding, no concerted endeavor to reform federal law has materialized; thus, these initiatives remain ineffectual.

Nevertheless, some politicians and entrepreneurs are striving to establish Nepali raksi as a recognized brand. The challenge lies in the dearth of scientific documentation on this traditional spirit. Some foreign enterprises have already introduced and marketed beverages in Nepal, dubiously labeled as local Nepali raksi or jaad.

Gandaki University has embarked on a journey to brand Millet raksi. A comprehensive evaluation of samples from five districts within the Gandaki province aims to ascertain their quality. Notably, there exists limited research on this subject, one of which is led by Narbada Thapa. Her team’s study reveals that the average ethanol concentration in homemade alcoholic beverages hovers around 14.0 percent (ranging from three to 40 percent) for distilled varieties and 5.2 percent (ranging from one to 18.9 percent) for non-distilled alternatives.

 The research underscores that the median ethanol concentration in homemade alcoholic beverages in Nepal surpasses the potency of factory-produced beer. The strength of these libations varies based on the type, ingredients used, production location, and regional distinctions.

Nepali raksi

In the rugged expanse and verdant hills of Nepal, the art of crafting raksi represents an exquisite blend of tradition and technique. This unique beverage, akin to rice wines across Asia, comes from grains like millet, rice, or wheat. The process commences with the fermentation of these grains, an intricate choreography of nature bestowing life upon a new libation. As time progresses, the drink matures, flavors evolving and transforming.

Tongba

In the lofty Himalayan mountains, where the cold is biting and warmth is sought, tongba becomes a cherished companion. Forged from fermented millet, this unique drink emerges from the collaboration of earth, fire, and time. Millet undergoes metamorphosis within bamboo vessels, maturing over weeks or even months to metamorphose into a comforting elixir capable of warding off the cold. Tongba transcends mere consumption; it stands as a symbol of togetherness, inviting friends and even strangers to unite.

Himalayan chang

Himalayan Chang epitomizes reverence and resilience. Made from barley, an exceptional grain, its creation involves skilled hands. A blend of cooked rice and dry wine yeast is nurtured for a week, culminating in the emergence of chang. Chang is a perennial companion, offering solace during joyous and somber moments alike. It accompanies farewells, honoring those departed, and provides solace for sorrowful hearts. During Losar, the Himalayan New Year, chang symbolizes hope and fresh beginnings. It’s a testament to the human capacity for creativity even in the harshest environs.

Jaad

Jaad, another Nepali creation, emerges from the fermentation of wheat, rice, or millet over a span of about a week to ten days. It’s tailored to be enjoyed during scorching summers, offering refreshment with a hint of coolness. With a modest alcohol content, jaad boasts a sweet yet slightly tangy flavor profile.

Within the vast embrace of the majestic Himalayas, where time takes on a different rhythm and nature bestows its unique touch upon everything, drinks such as Nepali raksi, tongba, nigaar, chang, and jaad embody the resilience, camaraderie, and sagacity of our people. These drinks harbor a narrative, a memory, and an emotion surpassing the confines of a glass. These beverages transcend mere consumption—they function as conduits bridging past, present, and future. In celebrating these traditions, we honor our origins and our trajectory.

I had heard of Riley Sager from some BookTubers I follow but I had never read any of his books. Like most authors, Sager gets mixed reviews. Some love his work, while others think he should stop writing. A BookTuber I love agrees with the latter and I usually like her recommendations. So, I thought I wouldn’t particularly enjoy his books but I was also intrigued.

‘The House Across the Lake’ is Sager’s latest thriller. His other works include ‘Final Girls’, ‘The Last Time I Lied’, ‘Lock Every Door’, ‘Home Before Dark’, and ‘Survive the Night’. A year ago, paperbackdreams, whom I follow on YouTube, posted a five-minute video, ranting about how terrible Survive the Night was. Apparently, it shouldn’t have been written. She says Sager comes up with great premises. Reading the blurb makes you want to pick up the books. But his stories, she says, always fall short.

I started reading The House Across the Lake with mixed feelings. I wanted to enjoy it but I thought I wouldn’t like it. I was surprised to find myself breezing through it. The writing wasn’t that great but the story was captivating. I didn’t see the twist coming at all. It blew my mind.

The story follows Casey Fletcher, a widow who is forced to retreat from her stressful life at her family’s tranquil lake house. Following the tragic death of her husband, she finds herself taking solace in glasses of bourbon. One day, she saves one of her neighbors from drowning in the same lake her husband had died in. Then, out of curiosity, boredom, or just nosiness, she starts spying on them. She tells herself she feels responsible for Katherine, having saved her life once.

Casey notices Katherine seems to be a little out of sorts. She believes her husband Tom might have something to do with it. Katherine too drops little hints that she isn’t happy with Tom.

Then Katherine disappears and Casey thinks Tom had something to do with it. Is something sinister going on? Or is her alcohol-addled mind playing tricks on her? The deeper Casey digs, the more complex things seem to be. But can we trust Casey?

I admit I had fun while reading the book. It was by no means the best thriller I had read but I also stayed up half the night to finish it. I had to know what was going on. Sager throws a curveball three-forth into the book and I literally put the book down to process what had just happened. I’m still undecided about whether I like that twist but I would definitely recommend The House Across the Lake to anyone who wants a spooky read.

Thriller

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58909880-the-house-across-the-lake  

The House Across the Lake

Riley Sager

Published: 2022

Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

Pages: 349, Paperback