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Vice-minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPCID), Sun Haiyan, visited Nepal in the last week of Jan 2024. During her four-day visit, she engaged in meaningful discussions with the leaders of major political parties, raising various aspects of bilateral relations.

In contrast to previous visits by Chinese delegations, Sun’s visit garnered significant attention from the Nepali government and political parties. It served as a platform to address long-standing issues that had remained unattended. By bringing these matters into open discussion, she actively sought suggestions and recommendations from prominent Nepali parties to chart the future course of Nepal-China relations. Her expressed desire was to elevate the bilateral ties to a new level, fostering mutual trust and respect.

Undoubtedly, Nepal seeks to maintain positive and neighborly relations with both China and India, with all major political parties prioritizing these two nations in their foreign relations. The adherence to the ‘one-China’ policy remains a longstanding and principled position for Nepal, dating back to the 1950s. Furthermore, Nepal is unequivocal in its commitment to preventing the use of its territory against China by any third country or non-state actors. 

Against this backdrop, the Nepal-China relationship appears generally normal and warm, with occasional minor irritants arising from misunderstandings and miscalculations. However, Madam Sun’s statements go beyond addressing these issues and are directed at external narratives that she believes some sections of Nepali society are adopting and endorsing. It is evident that Sun’s remarks aim to dismiss misconceptions and reinforce the importance of a robust and positive relationship between Nepal and China, urging a deeper understanding of shared values and mutual benefits that underpin their diplomatic ties.

Certainly, it’s essential to consider the broader geopolitical landscape when analyzing her statement and the concerns voiced by other Chinese leaders during their recent visits to Nepal. A significant factor in this context is the global positioning of China and the US policy of ‘containment’, particularly evident in the Indo-Pacific region encompassing the heartland and rimland.

Let’s delve into Vice-minister Sun’s statement and the concerns she expressed during her visit to Nepal. In her statement, she pointed out that some countries are actively working to destabilize the robust relations between Nepal and China, while also highlighting attempts to tarnish the reputation of the Belt and Road Initiative, often labeled as a ‘debt trap’. The underlying context of her statement revolves around the global power struggle, where China leads one axis, and the US leads another. The ideological differences between a socialist China and a capitalist US have contributed to conflicting relations that have, to a significant extent, divided the world’s nations and populations.

Chinese leaders, as articulated in their statements, have made it clear that they will not tolerate any attempts by the US and its Western bloc allies to set the stage against China. This geopolitical backdrop forms the nucleus of Vice-minister Sun Haiyan’s concerns, highlighting the complexities and tensions arising from the broader global power dynamics between the two major players, China and the US. The fact that Nepal has initiated steps to implement the MCC project, involving a substantial grant from the US, while progress on BRI projects remains in the consultation phase, is a matter of concern from the Chinese perspective. And, it is quite natural.

The delay and apparent reluctance in executing Chinese investments, especially in comparison to the timely implementation of projects backed by the US, may indeed be viewed as a genuine concern by Beijing. The reference to Sri Lanka’s Hambantota port, labeled as a ‘debt trap’, serves as a cautionary example, emphasizing China’s stance that such narratives are false and designed to undermine its growing global influence. Delay in the completion of Chinese-funded projects in Nepal has been a recurring concern, and Vice-minister Sun, along with Chinese Ambassador Chen Song, also raised this concern. The intention was to identify the reasons behind these delays and work collaboratively to address the issues, ensuring that Chinese aid is not perceived as a burden to Nepal.

Along with these concerns, Sun emphasized three key areas: The status and future of Nepal-China ties, the desired nature of these relations in changing circumstances, and the role Nepali political parties can play in strengthening bilateral ties.

While the general secretary of the CPN-UML, Shankar Pokherel, responded to the concerns raised by Vice Minister Sun, there was a notable absence of responses from leaders of other political parties during the consultation. Despite the silence on these specific issues, all political leaders affirmed their commitment to enhancing relations with China, expressing Nepal’s eagerness to benefit from China's economic growth. They also reiterated their commitment to the ‘one-China’ policy and support for the Belt and Road Initiative.

Ambassador Chen clarified that the BRI involves more than just concessional loans; it also encompasses grant elements. This statement comes in response to Nepal’s long-standing request for Chinese grants, particularly for major projects under the BRI. However, the ambassador also raised a crucial, unanswered question concerning the delays in projects involving Chinese companies. He pointed out that these companies, which successfully complete projects within set deadlines in other countries, face challenges in doing so in Nepal. Ambassador Chen emphasized that both sides should assess the situation and work toward resolving the issues.

The Nepal government should immediately hold consultation with the Chinese side and move toward implementing the projects keeping the grant element in priority as informed by the ambassador. But, the question left unanswered so far must be mutually addressed. That is the question of Chinese investment and its security. In this regard, the question of Ambassador Chen is serious. He queried the Nepali leaders as to why the same Chinese companies, which were completing projects in other countries within set deadlines, have been unable to do so in Nepal. And he quipped,  “Is it only due to us? No. You have to assess it.” Now it is our part to find fairness. Nepal should seriously do homework to benefit from the two rising economies of the world, which happen to be our neighbors. Until and unless we receive financial support from China and India, we cannot transform Nepal’s national aspiration of ‘Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepal’ into reality.

What is your childhood memory of ‘bhogate’(pomelo)? Don’t tell me you also played with bhogate, making it into a football of sorts. There used to be lots of bhogate trees in Kathmandu Valley. Since the production of bhogate was high and demand was low, as the population was less compared to present-day Kathmandu, the best way to utilize it was to play with it. And, some bhogate trees used to produce such bitter fruit that owners would be happy to give it away for play.

Playing with bhogate was no easy feat with bare feet. It started with a bit of pain, but after many kicks, it became an enjoyable daily ritual. Each day brought a new ball for winter play, courtesy of the bhogate trees that produced bitter fruits.

Another childhood memory might involve being told that consuming pomelo increases blood quality and quantity. Turns out, a peeled pomelo weighing about 600 grams is a powerhouse of nutrition. It has 231 calories, five grams of protein, no fat, 59 grams of carbs, six grams of fiber, and a bounty of essential vitamins and minerals. It’s no wonder pomelo was believed to enhance blood health.

Bhogate sadeko, a marinated pomelo dish, is more than just a vibrant heritage of Nepali culture. It’s a tradition, a connection to our roots, and a testament to the enduring spirit of Nepali communities worldwide. Originating from Nepal, bhogate sadeko is a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, capturing the essence of the revered pomelo fruit.

It’s a favorite during winter afternoons when families and friends gather under the warm sun to enjoy this refreshing and flavorful dish. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish, normally consumed in gatherings, especially women’s gatherings or family gatherings on sunny days. It’s a seasonal dish from Nepal.

For the Nepali diaspora, bhogate sadeko holds a special place, evoking memories of sunny days and sharing laughter with neighbors. Beyond its culinary allure, this dish packs a punch of health benefits, from immune-boosting vitamin C to fiber and potassium for digestive wellness.

Pomelo (Citrus maxima) is a large citrus fruit that belongs to the Rutaceae family. Known for its sweet and tangy flavor, it’s the largest citrus fruit, often compared to and sometimes mistaken for grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) due to its similar appearance. Varieties like Chandler, Thong Dee, Tambun, and Kao Nam Phueng each contribute their unique characteristics to the flavor palette, creating a symphony of tastes in bhogate sadeko.

Pomelo is believed to have originated in Southeast Asia, particularly in regions like Malaysia and Indonesia. It’s now widely cultivated in various tropical and subtropical regions, including Nepal, China, Thailand, Vietnam, India, and the Philippines. The fruit has also gained popularity in other parts of the world, including the Americas and certain Mediterranean countries.

 As a Product Development Chef, I’ve taken it upon myself to introduce this cultural delight to diverse menus. The nostalgic taste of bhogate sadeko transcends borders, and soon, it will find its place in a Middle Eastern menu, adding a touch of Nepali flair to the global culinary stage.

When I was the chef patron of a restaurant called Zumbura in London, I tried to link my childhood memory of bhogate to a cocktail drink. That was quite successful. Infusing pomelo juice into our cocktails wasn’t a mere quest for a refreshing drink; it was a homage to the authentic flavors that had shaped my culinary journey. Ingredients inspired by local produce, such as pomelo, became the bridge linking the diverse palette of cuisine with the traditions of my Nepali heritage.

In our fast-paced lives, preserving culinary traditions becomes paramount. Bhogate sadeko is more than a recipe. It’s a story waiting to be told, a piece of Nepal that resonates across generations. Sweet and sour pomelo is mixed with yogurt, sugar, salt, and chilies, and tempered with mustard oil and fenugreek seeds to make this afternoon snack for winter afternoons when a group of families and friends sit together under the warm sun and consume this dish. Other citrus fruits can also be added to bhogate.

The preparation is simple. Peel the pomelo, and marinate it with yogurt, salt, and chili powder, adding green chili for an extra kick. You can also add some oranges as well. Sputter fenugreek seeds until dark in hot mustard oil, add turmeric powder, and temper the marinated pomelo. Mix well and enjoy this delightful, nostalgic dish that connects us to our roots. 

 The author is a UK-based R&D chef

Cooking always felt like a chore. Till it didn’t. I don’t remember when I started enjoying cooking. Perhaps, it was during the Covid 19 lockdowns when my husband and I didn’t have the option to order from different restaurants or go out to eat, depending on what we were in the mood for. All of a sudden, I was making biryanis, butter chicken, a variety of soups and salads, etc.

As much as I enjoy indulging in my newfound hobby, one thing that puts me off is the amount of waste. From onion peels and lemon rinds to vegetable scraps and chicken skin and bones, there’s just so much I have to throw out every time I step into the kitchen to prepare a meal. My mother composts but I’m too lazy to do that. So, I wallow in guilt every time I throw out a trash can full of scraps.

I came across ‘The No-Waste Kitchen Cookbook’ by Arina Suchde at Bookverse in Civil Mall, Kathmandu, while hunting for some new cookbooks. I confess I bought it without even reading the blurb because the cover was so interesting. It had images of watermelon rinds, orange peels, corn husks, and such on a pastel-blue background. The cover also proclaimed that there were 75 recipes to begin your zero-waste journey. I was sold.

The book offers many ways in which we can reduce wastage of resources in our kitchens. It provides the readers with tips on how we can grow our own herbs. There are also recipes for basic pantry staples that can be made at home—this reduces the need to buy different condiments while ensuring our food is as preservative-free as possible. Suchde gives you 75 vegetarian recipes across seven sections. They are not just food recipes. You can also learn to whip up some mean cocktails. She also shines the spotlight on composting.

Some of my favorite recipes from the book include ‘Leftover Subzi Pav Bhaji’, ‘Carrot Peel Pasta Sauce’, ‘Wilted Lettuce Dressing’, and ‘Banana Peel Sleepy Tea’. These recipes drastically reduce kitchen waste as everything can be salvaged. You can throw every vegetable that is about to go bad as well as scraps and peels into the pot to make the Leftover Subzi Pav Bhaji. The Carrot Peel Pasta Sauce puts all the peels to use and the sauce is delicious. For a household that consumes a lot of carrots daily (our dog alone needs a carrot after every meal), this recipe is such a lifesaver. I don’t feel bad about having a banana daily because the peel can be saved to make a great-tasting tea. (Earlier, I would rub it on my face but I would still eventually have to throw it away. Not anymore.)

The book highlights the importance of sustainability in the kitchen and the author shows how simple steps can go a long way in achieving it. But she also talks about how it’s not possible to go zero-waste overnight and neither should we aspire to do that. We must be consistent in our efforts to manage the resources that are available to us. The No-Waste Kitchen Cookbook arms us with many ways in which we can make small changes in the kitchen that can, in the long run, drastically reduce waste.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199364564-the-no-waste-kitchen-cookbook  

The No-Waste Kitchen Cookbook

Arina Suchde

Published: 2023

Publisher: Harper Collins

Pages: 157, Paperback

Archana Thapa is an author, researcher, editor and founder of Akshar Creations, a publishing house based in Kathmandu. She is the author of Kathaputala, a compelling collection of stories. She has edited numerous books including Telling A Tale, Swastitwako Khoj and Smritikathama Satwa. Currently she is writing her first novel. Ken Subedi converses with Thapa on literature, publishing and translation in Nepal.

As an author and publisher, do you find the shift of women’s condition in Nepali literature now compared to a few decades back? In what ways are they similar and different?

Compared to a few decades ago there has been a profound shift in the landscape of women’s writing in Nepali literature. The majority of contemporary women’s writing reflects a departure from traditional regressive norms, challenging orthodox and regressive values that were accepted as natural, not cultural. Through their writings women authors now are assertively expressing their voice and views.

In the narrative crafted by these authors, female protagonists have undergone a remarkable transformation. More protagonists seem independent, visible, articulate and actively taking the role of change makers rather than being confined to the victimhood. Their writing signifies an end to the perpetual wait for a savior and the tendency to attribute their oppression to fate. Furthermore, it is not only just the portrayal of women protagonists that is changing; the very essence of women’s writing is marked by refreshing shifts in writing style, themes, issues and narratives. Such evolution not only brings diversity and depth to diverse stories, but also contributes to a broader and more inclusive literary landscape.

As a publisher yourself, do you agree publishers largely have been less interested in short story collections than novels? Is it because the readers tend to buy novels more than the story collections?

As a publisher, I have noticed a more influx of novel manuscripts compared to short stories. On a personal note, my creative writing journey commenced with longer stories. However, it raises the question of why upcoming writers are more inclined towards the novel genre. Perhaps a more in-depth exploration will uncover the underlying motivations.

However, it is essential to underscore that short story writing remains a vibrant and significant facet of literary expression. An illustrative example is the annual story writing competition organized by 12Khari for the past five years. This competition attracts submission in large numbers from Nepali writers around the world showcasing the enduring popularity and creativity inherent in the short story form. It may seem that novels dominate the Nepali literary landscape, yet the short stories are very important for diverse literary tapestry.

In laws, Nepal identifies non-binary sexualities and genders. Is the number of literary productions and discussions in popular culture coming from/about those sexualities satisfactory?

Nepal has seen increased recognition and visibility of non-binary sexualities and gender. The acceptance and representation of non-binary sexualities and identities in literary productions as well as in popular culture may vary because of the evolving nature of social attitudes and cultural shifts.

The level of satisfaction regarding the representation of non-binary sexualities and genders in literary production and popular culture can be subjective. Considering the dynamic nature of cultural shift there is a growing inclination to portray a more diverse world. However, it is true that not much is written on non-binary sexualities and genders. I would like to mention that one of the stories in Kathaputala is about Trans identity. I am optimistic that in the days to come, there will be a surge in the creation of stories that explore the diverse expressions of sexualities and genders.

Do you think the location where the author publishes matters in terms of the reach and reception?

In an ideal world, a book would organically find its own readership and make its way in the literary arena solely based on its own quality and merit. However, the reality is far from the ideal. Also, unfortunately, publishing is becoming more challenging than ever. In the era completely dominated by multimedia and marketing, publishers are immersed in diverse channels of information, advertisement and literary propaganda to reach readers. To capture readers’ attention, bigger publishers employ various marketing strategies, utilizing all the tricks of the trade to make a huge splash in the competitive book market. 

Publishing books has transformed into an investment and it goes beyond the writer receiving royalties; it involves the collaborative efforts of many others in the book marketing process. Consequently, a publication house having substantial resources can generate significant buzz in the book market using all its resources in terms of reach and reception. However, it is crucial to understand the difference between instant popularity and earning a name as a timeless literary piece. While a publication house with ample resources may use all its marketing strategies to sell the book in large numbers, smaller publication houses face many challenges. Akshar Creations favors the enduring quality of a book that is shaped by its substance and lasting impact. 

In order to globalize the Nepali literary productions, translations have always been emphasized by the literary fraternities of Nepal. Why do you think translations are not happening in numbers as they should have been?

The prospect of Nepali literary translation holds immense significance in the world of literature as it will contribute to fostering a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of Nepali literature in the global literary stage. While some of the Nepali literary works have been translated into English and other languages, that number remains less than satisfactory. Acknowledging the constraints of living in a resources-limited society, it is evident that there is less enthusiasm in the academic arena and insufficient support from the government level. 

As I have only translated poems till the date, I may not be able to pinpoint the exact reasons behind this challenge, however, as I understand, translation endeavor requires increased resources, enhanced infrastructures, proficient translator with a strong command of language and a nuanced understanding of cultural subtleties, needs good investment and also a good channel to take the translated works into the international market.

The translated project, in essence, demands a multi-faceted approach that addresses not only linguistic challenges, better translation skills, but also the structural and market orient aspect of the literary world. I firmly believe that with enhanced resources and more effective strategic support, translated Nepali literature holds the great potential to secure a more prominent and well deserved space on the global literary readership.