The Royal Ghost features characters trying to reconcile their true desires with the forces at work in Nepali society. Against the backdrop of the violent Maoist insurgencies that have claimed thousands of lives, these characters struggle with their duties to their aging parents, an oppressive caste system, and the complexities of arranged marriage. In the end, they manage to find peace and connection, often where they least expect it-with the people directly in front of them. These stories brilliantly examine not only Kathmandu during a time of political crisis and cultural transformation but also the effects of that city on the individual consciousness.
Samrat Upadhyay Books
Samrat Upadhyay crafts narratives deeply rooted in the life and culture of Nepal, often setting his stories against the backdrop of his homeland's tumultuous political and social shifts. His distinctive style is recognized for its incisiveness, ironic humor, and a keen ability to capture the intricacies of human relationships amidst seemingly ordinary circumstances. Upadhyay explores themes of identity, migration, and the collision of tradition with modernity, offering readers profound insights into the fragility and resilience of the human spirit. His works stand out for their literary merit and their power to evoke strong emotions and contemplation.






The Guru of Love
- 304 pages
- 11 hours of reading
The narrative explores profound themes of love and lust while providing insight into the political landscape of Nepal. Samrat Upadhyay's writing is celebrated for its spiritual complexity and ability to resonate with universal truths. This collection stands out for its emotional depth and the way it captures the intricacies of human relationships, making it both a poignant and significant read. Critics have praised Upadhyay's storytelling, likening it to the works of Chekhov for its subtlety and impact.
Arresting God in Kathmandu
- 204 pages
- 8 hours of reading
Exploring desire and spirituality in a transforming society, this novel delves into the lives of individuals navigating arranged marriages and personal connections in Kathmandu. It portrays the tension between societal expectations and personal longing, highlighting the omnipresence of gods and the elusive nature of privacy. Through psychologically rich narratives, the characters grapple with their desires while remaining tethered to family and cultural identity, marking the emergence of a significant voice in contemporary fiction.
Darkmotherland
- 768 pages
- 27 hours of reading
Set in the dystopian landscape of Darkmotherland, a reimagined Nepal, the narrative intertwines the lives of Kranti, a revolutionary's daughter entangled in a powerful family's politics, and Rosy, a concubine of a tyrant who transforms into a formidable force. The story explores themes of love, identity, and political violence, showcasing a diverse cast that includes lovers, widows, and a genderqueer character vying for power. Through these characters, the novel examines the intersection of personal ambitions and political realities in a globalized world.
Jak silné dokáže být pouto milostné lásky? Dokáže překonat lásku mateřskou? Buddhovi sirotci líčí osudy osiřelého Radži a dívky Nilu z bohaté rodiny. Jejich cesty se na krátký okamžik protnou již v dětství, ale necitelným odtržením Radži od opatrovnice Kaki se na řadu dlouhých let opět rozejdou. Přesto se dívce v přelidněném Káthmándú podaří Radžu najít. Silný vztah, které se mezi dvojicí vytvoří, jim pomůže překonat překážky na cestě životem. Do osudů milenců se promítají rodinné vztahy, ať už jde o Niluinu věčně opilou matku Muwu či Radžovu vyšinutou adoptivní matku Jamunu. Svou roli v jejich životech sehrává také minulost, která je chtě nechtě poznamenala. Nesmírně poutavý příběh zpestřují nepálské výrazy, jež dodávají knize punc originality, svěžest a vtahují čtenáře do exotického prostředí.