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Those who practice yoga vouch for its many benefits. They say it is good for their overall wellbeing, that it makes them calmer and agile. Though research into it is still preliminary, scientific evidence supports what yogis have been claiming for decades—yoga, if done right, can be therapeutic. 

Zahyan Shahani is a yoga instructor. She conducts yoga classes at her studio, Zenned Out, in Jhamsikhel, Lalitpur. She has been practicing yoga for almost a decade. She spoke to Babita Shrestha from ApEx about the healing benefits of yoga, how it can make you more mindful of the present, and why the early hours of the morning is considered to be the best time to practice yoga.

Are there any health benefits of regular yoga practice?

Yoga is a great way to make you more focused on whatever you’re doing. It can help you stay calm, handle stress, and even deal with mood swings. If you have health issues, it might ease the symptoms. It keeps your organs and breathing in good shape. Following the right poses and sequences can strengthen your muscles, make you more flexible, and improve how you move around. Yoga isn’t just about the body but also keeps your mind healthy, helps you sleep better, and keeps you on track.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to do yoga? 

I’d recommend finding a workout that suits you and easily fits into your daily life. Think of it as a long term fitness regime and not a temporary trend. Start with a nearby studio or instructor to understand the basics of breathing, alignment, and techniques. It’s crucial in the beginning to prevent potential long-term damage to your bones or muscles. You might not immediately have issues but they could catch up later if you’re not practicing correctly. Once you’ve grasped the fundamentals, you can practice on your own. 

Is there a good time to practice yoga?

Practicing yoga in the morning sets a positive tone for the day, helping you focus on your purpose and approach the day with the right mindset. If you’re interested in why mornings are ideal for yoga, explore ‘Brahma Muhurta’. This Sanskrit term translates to ‘time of Brahma’,’sacred time’, ‘time of divinity’ or ‘the creator’s time.’ It refers to the period just before sunrise, which is believed to be when your life force is at its strongest. Practicing yoga during this time can make a big difference in how you tackle the day.

How does yoga contribute to improving flexibility and mental well-being? 

The practice of yoga, particularly through various asanas, not only enhances physical fitness but helps you create a healthy space between joints by elongating tight muscles. It allows connection between deeper sets of muscles. If you love a slow and gentle asana practice, you can opt for Yin Yoga but if you like it to be fast paced, you can  go for Vinyasa or Power Yoga. There is Ashtanga Yoga for the ones who love routine sequences. Pranayama practice along with gentle asanas that open up the back, chest, and abdominal muscles can also help you with respiratory health.

Can you share a simple yoga tip that anyone can use in their day to day life? 

There’s this yoga move called Vajrasana. It’s one of the simplest asanas. You can do it right after you’ve had lunch or dinner. It’s not just good for improving slow digestion but also helps you if you’re dealing with issues like infection or gastroenteritis. On top of giving your digestive system a boost, it also keeps your spine healthy. As for other asanas, I recommend you do them on an empty stomach or a few hours after having food. If you’ve got any spinal health issues, it’s better to have someone guide you through yoga practice.

What are some things to keep in mind before starting a yoga session?

For anyone dealing with specific health concerns, especially back pain, my advice would be to have a chat with your yoga instructor or healthcare provider before diving into practice. Simple things like checking your daily posture and adjusting your pillow and mattress can also make a big difference. Don’t shy away from using props or any modifications because they can make bending and stretching easier.

Yoga shouldn’t cause you pain or discomfort, though it might make you a bit sore at the start. Communicate with your instructor to make any necessary adjustments in your yoga routine. When it comes to backbends, take it easy. Don’t push yourself into something that doesn’t feel right. Even a simple sequence like the Cobra pose can do more harm than good if not done correctly.

Should meditation be a part of your yoga sessions? 

If you’re new to meditation, guided sessions can be a good way to start. It’s all about being mindful, doing away with distractions, and dedicating quality time to yourself. It helps you reflect on your own thoughts. What I strongly believe is that we often have the answers within us but most of the time we just seek validation from external sources. Meditation helps release all that stress, trauma, anxiety and the constant mental turmoil between the past, present and future. If you’re just starting out, take baby steps with meditation. Even two to five minutes is a great beginning and you can build up from there.

Most of us know him as Bir Kaji aka B.K from the 2014 film Kabaddi starring Dayahang Rai, Nischal Basnet, and Rishma Gurung in leading roles. In 2015, he acted in Kabaddi Kabaddi, the sequel of Kabaddi, for which he was nominated for best actor in a comic role. His most recent film ‘Jaari’ became one of the highest-grossing Nepali films. Bijay Baral, who made his movie debut in 2013 with Chhadke, is known for his impeccable comic timing and his ability to emote through his expressions. In a conversation with Cilla Khatry of ApEx, Baral spoke about his love for acting, the things he has learned in his journey as an artist, and how being a sidekick works to his advantage. 

What do you think is the importance of stories in our society? 

Stories are important to change how people think and perceive things. Everyone has a story and every story will resonate with someone, somewhere. Every society has different forms of storytelling, be it theater, movies, literature, etc. In Nepal, I believe the most important form of storytelling is conversations that happen in public spaces, especially in rural areas. 

Sometimes, I go to Patan Durbar Squares and see elderly men and women engrossed in heated debates or whispered chats. Sharing your experience and emotions is the most impactful form of storytelling. Another great form of storytelling that makes people think and introspect is forum theater as it engages spectators to take the story forward and even change its course. 

How has Nepali cinema and theater evolved over the years? 

As someone who has spent 15 years in theater and 10 years in cinema, I believe Nepali theater and cinema both have a lot of potential. We are investing in good scripts and telling relevant stories. Nepal is rich in culture and language and that brings diversity to our narratives. Filmmakers like Nabin Subba, Deepak Rauniyar, Abinash Bikram Shah, and Min Bham are paving the way for global recognition. There is a lot of effort being put into making good cinema. 

Theater too has evolved given the limited infrastructure and resources. Many theater groups are doing amazing work. Mandala Theater recently sent 16 students, on a fully-funded program, to conduct theater classes, workshops, and stage shows all over Nepal. When Shabana Azmi was in Nepal, she was surprised to see how wonderfully theaters were operating in Nepal. We are doing the best we can with what we have. 

As an artist, how do you prepare for a role? Who is your role model? 

When I started, I didn’t understand acting. I thought I was acting in every role. I thought I was a good actor. But as time went by, you could say it gave me the maturity to understand what acting requires. Now, I focus on the character and try to understand it as much as I can through research and study. I want to comprehend the character’s psychology, emotions, traits, and behavior patterns before I start a role. 

As far as role models are concerned, I mostly take inspiration from Bollywood actors who do the kind of roles I do or with whom I seem to have physical similarities. The works of actors like Nana Patekar and Irfan Khan have taught me a lot. But I generally don’t like the idea of having a role model and aspiring to be like someone because that way you lose your unique identity. You become a replica of someone else.

What has been the biggest challenge for you as an actor and how have you overcome it?

I’m not well-versed in different cultures and that limits the kind of characters and roles I can take up. Sometimes, my personality also poses a challenge. For instance, in Dimag Kharab I took on an aggressive role. Not only was it different from the kind of fun-loving characters I usually portray, but it was also the opposite of how I am in real life. So, I had to work hard to be believable. The only way to overcome challenges in acting, I believe, is by not taking yourself too seriously as an actor. I try to be a director’s actor when I’m shooting for a film because cinema is a director’s vision. 

What are some of the lessons you have learned in your journey? What do you consider to be your valuable skills? 

The most valuable lesson I have learned is not to be overconfident and overambitious. While confidence and ambitions are nice, too much of either, I believe, will lead to your downfall. It will make you narcissistic and you will lose the ability to think critically. I have learned that as an actor you must be ready to work hard but you mustn’t have a lot of expectations on how the audience will perceive you or your work. All you can do is be honest and true to yourself and your craft. 

I’m someone who likes to talk. I enjoy talking to people. This makes me approachable and, if I might say so myself, likable to a certain extent. Professionally, I think it works in my favor and I consider it an asset. On a personal level, I’m not sure my wife appreciates it very much. She fears I will say random things and offend people (laughs).

Talent or training, which of these two factors is more important to be an actor?

Training prepares you. It gives you the confidence to get on stage or in front of the camera. Back in my village, before I got into acting, I would do caricature. I had a flair for it. But my talent would not have gotten me this far if I hadn’t undergone several acting workshops and courses after I came to Kathmandu. Training gives you the techniques required to become a good actor. Acting is reacting and, for that, you need to observe what’s going on, be emotionally ready to respond, and do that in character. Training teaches you all that and more. Training will also help you transition from one character to another with ease. 

How do you react to criticism? 

I’m human so when someone criticizes my work, especially when I’ve worked hard for a role, I get hurt and a little offended. A little part of me gets angry even though I don’t show it. But I realize feedback is necessary if I want to grow as an actor. I’m generally not the main character in a play or a movie. So, I’m usually not targeted by trolls or receive hateful comments. But there have been times when people haven’t appreciated my work and have told me never to do certain roles again. I’ve taken it in my stride. Comments, both good and bad, can be motivational. I try to channel them into good energy that I will then pour into my next project. 

Do you enjoy reading? 

I prefer reading short stories to long novels. They cater to my imagination. I find I can conjure up images clearly in my head when I’m reading a short story rather than when I’m reading longer fiction. Honestly, I read more scripts than books, and script reading takes time and dedication. But I love Upendra Subba’s poetry and constantly find myself picking up his works. But I must admit that I’m a bit lazy and that I could and should read more.

What projects are you working on next? 

I can’t say for sure which movies I will be a part of but I’m reading a lot of scripts and trying to decide which projects to take on. I have been fortunate enough to have a lot of movie offers come my way. It gives me the boost I need to keep working. One thing I’m trying to do more of this year is theater. We will soon be going to the National School of Drama in New Delhi, India, with a play that’s being directed by Bijay Karki. I’ll also be involved in quite a few plays being produced by Mandala Theater because I want to hone my acting skills and theater is the best way to do that.

Indira IVF, recognized as India’s leading and reliable chain of IVF hospitals, manages a network of more than 120 specialized clinics across India. They have recently inaugurated their first international branch in Kathmandu, featuring advanced technology and skilled medical professionals. They aim to provide world-class facilities so that people in Nepal don’t have to travel abroad for fertility services. This initiative not only helps fulfill Nepalis’ parenthood aspirations but also aims to create opportunities and enhance skill development in Nepal.

Dr. Neha Homagain, 38, is a gynecologist, infertility expert and laparoscopic surgeon. She is currently the Center Head and Chief Fertility Specialist at Indira IVF based in Nepal. She is also among the few fertility experts recognized by the Nepal Medical Council. She trained at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York in the US, specializing in gynae oncology. Babita Shrestha from ApEx spoke to Homagain about her experience and roles at Indira IVF.

 How has global exposure enhanced your expertise in reproductive healthcare?

The training I had in gynae oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York was impactful. I was not only impressed by all the facilities but also realized the significant gap between oncology and fertility. It was an eye-opener to witness patient management, care standards, and the international level of healthcare provided there. Moreover, I saw the potential for medical tourism. Memorial Sloan Kettering is known for its advanced and top-notch medical facilities and I consider myself fortunate to have had that experience.

 What distinguishes Indira IVF’s approach and success?

At Indira IVF, we have world-class facilities that set the bar high. The reason for our extensive reach, with over 120 centers in India, is the top-notch approach and impressive success rate which stands at 75-80 percent. It’s because of their precision in everything from history-taking to ultrasonography and their cutting-edge labs. This IVF facility boasts the world’s best technology, like a ‘closed working chamber’ for egg fertilization. The eggs are fertilized in a closed chamber that replicates the human body conditions like temperature, carbon dioxide, pH, and oxygen, resulting in higher embryo and pregnancy quality. It’s remarkable.

 Also to prevent mix-up in egg and sperm handling, Indira IVF has combined technology and science by introducing the Risk Identification (RI) system. This system triggers an alarm if it detects any mismatched samples. This ensures that errors are practically non-existent. Another interesting aspect is the use of Artificial Intelligence. Our eyes can miss tiny details but, with AI, specialists at Indira IVF can pinpoint the best embryos and grade them, ensuring the best possible outcomes.

 What latest scientific breakthroughs and advancements in Assisted Reproductive Technology are in use at the Indira IVF?

Indira IVF is ahead in IVF technology. They’ve got the best services, experienced embryologists, and a big research team constantly rolling out the latest technology like the Closed Working Chamber, Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection  (ICSI), and Day Five embryo blast transfer. Speaking of embryos, there are two types, Day Three and Day Five and Indira IVF goes for Day Five due to its high success rate. They even use Laser Assisted Hatching, making tiny drills in the outer cells so that when the embryo is implanted, it can easily break out and attach to the uterus. Indira IVF is all about quality injections and has a 24/7 monitoring system.

 At Indira IVF, to address issues like a low egg count, egg problems, irregular ovulation, or instances where natural pregnancy is unlikely, we employ ICSI, a more advanced version of IVF. While IVF involves placing one egg amidst many sperm for self-fertilization, ICSI takes it up by injecting a single sperm directly into one egg. This technique is particularly beneficial in cases of male infertility with a low sperm count, enabling men to have their genetic offspring.

 In what ways does Indira IVF contribute to facilitating skill development in Nepal?

Through Indira Fertility Academic, a well-known fertility training center, over 400 embryologists have received training in India. For Nepal, this means that doctors or neurologists can undergo training at Indira IVF and return to contribute their expertise, bridging the manpower gap in the field in their country. 

How does Indira IVF make services accessible to a wide range of people?

Our price list is set to be inclusive, welcoming everyone from different economic backgrounds whether low-income or middle-class. Our services are not just affordable but also rooted in research, making them accessible to a wide range of people. And for those with lower incomes who might struggle with the costs, we offer discounts on various facilities.

What can be done if a couple has issues in conceiving?

If a couple, despite having unprotected sex, faces difficulty in conceiving, it’s important to acknowledge it as a potential infertility issue. The crucial first step is to consult a doctor because fertility issues can be complex and affect both partners. Seeking early medical advice can allow for simpler treatments, addressing hormonal imbalances or egg-related problems but delaying consultation might result in missed opportunities. 

In today’s context, modern technology provides empowerment, offering options like egg freezing. Since biological clocks and career plans aren’t always in sync, as a specialist, I recommend you freeze those eggs and sperm. When the time is right and you are with your partner of choice, you’re good to go for making healthy babies. Quality tends to drop with age, so it’s about being a step ahead.

Nepal is currently going through a host of political and social challenges. Major political parties are struggling to find a consensus as the National Assembly election nears, the long drawn-out transitional justice process is nowhere near complete, brain- and labor-drain continues, corruption cases are thriving and the people’s faith in political parties and state institutions is diminishing. In this context.  Kamal Dev Bhattarai, Akhanda Bhandari, Shambhu Kattel and Surendra Kafle talked to CPN-UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli on a wide range of issues, including the party’s Sankalpa Yatra (Resolution March) from Jhulaghat in the far west Nepal to Chiwabhanjang in the east. The  principal purpose of this march was to analyze the prevalent issues and challenges facing the mid-hill region and the country at large. Excerpts.  

The UML recently completed its Sankalpa Yatra, and you actively participated in the march. What was the purpose behind this initiative?

Our journey took us through the mid-hill region of Nepal, where our primary focus was to analyze the prevalent issues and challenges facing the region. Additionally, we aimed to explore the potential opportunities, identify obstacles hindering their realization and devise strategies to address them. The campaign also played a pivotal role in fostering stronger local relationships while simultaneously conveying our message on a national level.

What was the response of the people?

Contrary to the dissatisfaction often observed in urban areas, the people of the mid-hills exhibit a different perspective. Their narratives differ significantly from those residing in Kathmandu. The skepticism and aversion towards the political system prevalent in urban centers are not mirrored in rural areas. There seems to be a lack of inclination to embrace unfounded beliefs.

How do you assess the strength of the current political alliance?

Our primary objective is to secure a majority in the upcoming 2080 BS (2027) elections. Following the 2022 elections, we initially placed our trust in the Maoist Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal, only to be disappointed by his dishonesty. Despite our proposal to Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba for a joint government, he opted for a minority government. In supporting the Shekhar Koirala faction with only eight seats in the Koshi Province, we witnessed the opportunistic nature of Nepali Congress, a party historically known for betrayal. Even the late Sushil Koirala had betrayed our trust. Our experiences with Dahal, Deuba, Koirala, and Kedar Karki have reinforced our perception of their honesty—or lack thereof.

You criticize the current government for ruining the country, yet you claim not to be attempting to change it. Isn't this contradictory?

While we acknowledge the detrimental impact of the current government on the nation, the reality is that we hold 80 seats and require 138 seats to form a new government. Changing the government is not solely within our control; various factors are at play. Our ability to bring about change is constrained by these factors. The current situation is exceptionally critical, with dissatisfaction evident in various aspects—social, economic, political, cultural, foreign, and environmental. Despite our vocal disapproval of the current government, the practical challenge lies in attaining the necessary 138 seats.

How confident are you about returning to power?

My personal interest in returning to power is minimal. Engaging in the political arena to save the government would likely be met with opposition. Those opposing forces would attempt to thwart my efforts, making governance challenging. My belief is that the resilience and patriotism of the Nepali people, demonstrated historically in their confrontation with the British forces using khukuri, will save this country.

You recently mentioned the issue of the ‘business of identity’. Could you elaborate on that?

Some people are running this ‘business of identity’, rooted in fostering hatred. It was initially instigated by the Maoists. But they are no longer openly claiming responsibility. However, they continue to be involved in this business through proxy forces. A meeting chaired by the prime minister takes the decision (to select the name of the province). Votes are cast accordingly. Later they say the decision should be reconsidered. How can such an individual govern the province? The conduct of the Koshi chief minister, who avoids mentioning ‘Koshi Province’, has raised questions about the Nepali Congress as well. Which forces is he trying to appease by not pronouncing the province’s name? How can such an individual govern the province?

But wasn’t it UML which supported his bid for the post of chief minister?

We supported his chief ministerial bid with the intention of promoting positive governance, not to engage in disruptive activities. We did not support him to disturb communal harmony.

Do you believe you made a mistake by supporting the chief minister of Koshi?

No, we do not consider it a mistake. The decision was made under unique circumstances. No party had a majority in the provincial assembly, and some forces were trying to stop us. We supported him as he promised to work in a positive way. However, he displayed dishonesty soon after taking office. His dishonest character became evident shortly after he secured a vote of confidence.

The developments in Koshi seem to parallel the situation at the center. UML supported someone to form the government, but you are not part of it. Was this a miscalculation on UML’s part?

It is not a significant issue, and we have not taken any benefit from it. The Nepali Congress has consistently demonstrated dishonesty on critical occasions. Deuba had minimal chances of becoming prime minister on his own. Other forces, including the Maoists, supported him to secure the position. Despite publicly committing to appoint Dahal as prime minister after the election, Deuba reneged on his promise.

Deuba avoided discussions with us. His plan was to stall the process until 5 pm, and make a claim for the prime minister’s position. But he was unlikely to get a vote of confidence. This would mean a midterm election. We supported Dahal to avoid that. Unfortunately, Dahal also failed to demonstrate honesty in his leadership.

Prime Minister Dahal, whose party has only 32 seats in parliament, has been claiming that his government will last for five years. What do you think is behind his confidence?

Dahal is in a seemingly ‘comfortable’ situation. Initially, we were not in favor of his leadership, and external forces did not actively support him in becoming prime minister. We supported him with the intention of steering national politics in the right direction, but he betrayed our trust. Forces that opposed the country’s development now have the upper hand. Dahal started becoming ‘comfortable’ for them.

Is there a possibility of left unity?

Left unity has already been evident, and that’s why UML stands as the most popular party. Certain forces cannot be termed ‘left’ based solely on their name. A party toeing the line of Nepali Congress and failing a leftist government with two-thirds majority cannot be considered leftist. A force growing comfortable with foreign influences cannot claim to be a leftist, nor patriotic.

‘Oli-phobia’ is the term assigned to those who do not agree with you. Why do you think foreign forces and senior party leaders fear you?

I leave the analysis of this ‘phobia’ to others. However, there must be a reason for it. It could be due to my unwavering stance on national interests. Another factor is my lack of personal greed; I prioritize only national interests. I anticipated my government’s failure when signing a transit treaty with China and understood that my stay in power would be challenged when publishing a new map, reclaiming land encroached upon by others. I strongly believe in maintaining friendly conduct with our neighbors. And I expect the same in return.

Will the UML contest the 2027 election independently?

Yes, we will contest the election independently.

What if the Maoists propose forming a coalition?

We will still contest independently.

Recently, there has been a rise in forces advocating for reinstatement of monarchy and the Hindu state. How does UML view these movements?

They are talking about religion but they have a criminal motive. Killings and bloodshed cannot be a religion. In the 21st century, it is inappropriate to advocate for a state favoring one religion over others. Nepal is a country for everyone. Regarding the monarchy, there is no substantial discussion warranted for its return, since it ended with the tragic massacre of King Birendra’s family. With no one from his dynasty remaining, the continuation of monarchy is not a viable consideration.

Top three leaders are meeting regularly these days. What is happening with the transitional justice issue?

The concern here is that those responsible for past atrocities are now positioned as ‘judges’. The individuals in power were once perpetrators, involved in acts of torture, oppression, bombing and openly taking claims for the death of 5,000 people. How can we expect impartial judgments from those with a history of perpetrating such actions? Individuals involved in past atrocities should not be in positions of power if we are to take the pace process to a logical conclusion. UML is for concluding the transitional justice process, but the prime minister and his party is causing the hindrance.

What are the stances of the Maoists and UML on ending the transitional justice process, and what are the contentious issues?

The Maoist party aims to conclude the process by neglecting the suffering of victims, whereas the UML is for concluding the process by prioritizing justice for the victims. The key issue lies in addressing the grievances of the victims, ending impunity, and establishing the truth before moving towards reconciliation.

Does this suggest a decrease in the chances of the transitional justice process reaching a resolution?

The resolution depends on the prime minister’s stance. While the UML is clear on its position, Prime Minister Dahal aims to conclude the process without adequately addressing the grievances of the victims. 

Several major scandals, such as gold smuggling, Lalita Niwas land grab and Bhutanese refugee scam surfaced but soon dissipated. Why is this happening?

Our initial plan was to probe gold smuggling by forming a three-member judicial commission. However, attempts were made to exert influence on the case, leading to the addition of another member. It is unlikely that this commission, shaped by external interference, will deliver justice as originally intended.

The management of Bhutanese refugees was a significant problem for Nepal. I held talks with US President Bush and Foreign Secretary Condoleeza Rice for resettlement of the refugees. In 2006, the US expressed commitment for the resettlement of refugees. After signing necessary agreements, we began sending the refugees to the US in 2008. The US agreed to accommodate 60,000 refugees and initiate necessary measures for the resettlement of the remaining others.

Some even suggested your involvement in these scams. What do you say?

Our role was limited while sending refugees to third countries. Those who sent other people in the guise of Bhutanese refugees should be made accountable. The accusations of involvement in wide-body aircraft purchase are baseless. We only released the last installment to the supplier on the basis of agreement reached by the previous government. It’s not that we raised the installment and pocketed money.

What about the UML’s involvement in Giribandhu Tea Estate?

Initially, the tea estate was allotted 51 bighas of land, followed by an additional 19 bighas on the second occasion. People involved allegedly pocketed commissions during this process. The anti-graft body advised the government that land allocation should only occur through the enactment of relevant laws. Consequently, we initiated the drafting of the necessary law and regulations. Once the law came into force, the process of land allocation ended altogether.

What about UML’s preparation for the National Assembly election?

We have fewer votes. Our success hinges on garnering support from others. Otherwise, we will not win.