Books will remain integral to human existence

April 5, 2024

KATHMANDU – Founding chairman and director of ChulaChuli Theatre, Illam, Chetan Angthupo, has been active in the theatre field for seventeen years, working as a director, writer and instructor. He has worked in more than two dozen plays like ‘Jhoda’ and ‘Buddha and Bhikari’.

In an interview with Post’s Aarati Ray, Angthupo shares his love for books and how it shapes his journey in theatre.

How is your relationship with books?

I’m an avid book enthusiast, and my love for books has been with me since I was nineteen. Every penny I earn goes towards expanding my collection. When I have even a little money, I immediately think of buying another book.

Before libraries were accessible, I satisfied my reading cravings with newspaper articles. However, when a small library opened eight kilometres away from my village at Damak, in 2004, I began visiting it regularly and borrowing books. Eventually, I decided to collect books myself. Now, I am in a never-ending rabbit hole.

What are your thoughts on the current trend of romance novels and stories dominating the Nepali literary landscape?

I’ve never been drawn to love stories because they mostly focus on the lives of individuals without offering much guidance for society or critical thinking. Nepali literature, in particular, is known for its love stories, which attract many young readers. However, indulging solely in these texts limits their perspectives rather than broadening them. Instead of solely focusing on romantic relationships, young readers should explore literature that discusses society, community, and nation-building for a more holistic understanding of the world.

Do you think your journey in theatre has been influenced by books?

Books and music have