USHA POKHAREL

While the landline itself is in decline in Nepal—with household usage dropping to just 4.5%—the lesson behind this “comeback” is more relevant than ever.

In the 1960s, Durga Puja in Calcutta was more than a festival—it was a dazzling blend of art, devotion, and community spirit that transformed the entire city. From the soul-stirring Mahishasuramardini on Mahalaya to the bittersweet farewell of Dashami, the celebration etched unforgettable memo...

After two decades of persistence, my vision for a ‘Book Free Friday’ has finally taken root in Nepal, giving children a chance to learn through creativity, skills, and real-world experience beyond the textbook.

I opened it up and saw a missed call and a message, ‘Usha di baba is not with us anymore.’ It was a message from Kalpana, Achyut Kaka’s eldest daughter. I was shocked.  I knew her parents were in Australia with her. Dada, as we all called him, had a heart condition.  I ca...

Another memory resurfaces. Denial became a major obstacle in this case. Despite repeated suggestions, the family refused to acknowledge the possibility of dementia. Acceptance, unfortunately, hinged on a more serious incident.