Entertainment
From filmmaking to writing
Sangita Shrestha, a popular name in filmmaking, always had a knack for weaving stories.Sangita Shrestha, a popular name in filmmaking, always had a knack for weaving stories. A director of more than five dozen music videos, she has now come up with a book, Kathama Aljhiyeka Prem. The book, an anthology of 10 short stories, all of which pivot around love, hit bookstores this past weekend. The Post’s Marissa Taylor caught up with Shrestha to talk about her book, her reading habits, and about love. Excerpts:
Your debut book, Kathama Aljhiyeka Prem, hit the stores this Saturday. Tell us a bit more about the book.
Kathama Aljhiyeka Prem is a compilation of 10 love stories that are based on lives in and around Kathmandu. The idea of writing the book basically came to me a couple of years ago, after the show Katha Mann Ka became a huge hit. I had written and directed the 30-minute show that used to air on Kantipur Television. People loved the short films and the stories I had woven. It’s basically the accolade it garnered that motivated me to write more love stories.
You are one of the few recognised female names in the world of short film direction. How does it feel to be stepping into the literary world with your new book?
Filmmaking has been my identity till now. So far, I have directed about 60 music videos, and I think, over the years, I carved out a small niche in the craft of weaving and
telling stories. Now, with this book, I am stepping into an unchartered territory. I hope I will be successful at establishing myself as a writer.
Do you think your experience in film making helped you shape the book?
I think my experience in music video and short filmmaking has helped me portray human sentiments into the characters of my short stories seamlessly. I have learned the art of portraying emotions on screen and keeping the audience’s attention intact. I think these qualities, in some way, have helped me to shape the book.
How would you compare writing a book to writing a script for a short film?
It is worlds apart. Writing a book is quite a challenge. When you write a story, you have to be able to describe every little detail meticulously, weigh every word before you write it down, but in films you are not so heavily dependent on words as you are on your actions and expressions. A lot of things are left unsaid in videos but you do not have much room to leave things unspoken in a book. You have to connect with your audience in your absence.
Why a book of love?
Love is a universal language. Everyone in this world has had a taste of this beautiful emotion. I am not talking just about a romantic love; sibling love, love between friends, parental love are equally important. I hope most people will be able to connect with the stories in my book. They may see someone they know or even themselves in the characters in my book.
Can you tell us more about the 10 love stories comprised in your book?
All the 10 stories are based on love and are none of them are similar to each other. All of the stories deal with love: you will see a budding puppy love between teenagers in school and you will also get to read a mature love blossom in a woman well in her mid 40s who never thought she’d find love.
How did you first fall in love with stories?
I have been in love with stories as far as I can remember. I have always loved reading. On most days I fall asleep while reading. I have a small library at home and I am usually re-reading books I have collected over the years. The last book I read was Ular, by Nayan Raj Pandey.
What are the major themes you have used in your stories?
I have played with some of the themes that were present in the short films Katha Mann Ka. The major theme, as the title suggests, is love. All the stories centre around love; love in different times, different sections of society, different age groups.
Any writers whose work has influenced yours?
There are a lot of writers whose work I admire a lot. Sanat Regmi is one writer whose work I absolutely love. I also love Nayan Raj Pandey’s work. These are writers who connect to an audience in a deeper spiritual level than other writers.
Have books influenced your life?
Books have had a huge role in my life. They are, in some ways, responsible for the way I think and also the way I live. A good book will always be a better companion than a friend you have known for a long time. They are your best companion, your best friend.
One book that has inspired you the most…
Karnali Blues, by Budhisagar, is one book that has inspired and influenced me the most. After reading the book, I realised the importance of the presence of loved ones in one’s life. Life is moving at such a fast pace, sometimes days pass so quickly I can’t figure out where time just flies past. The book made me realise how in all that we take the people we love the most for granted. The message the book gave stuck with me for days. It is a wonderful read.
I have his latest novel, Firfire, too on my to-read list. I am sure it will be a good read.
What is the scope for female writers in the Nepali literature scene?
I think there is as much scope for female writers as there is for male writers. I think the number of women writers is increasing by the day and the work they do is commendable. There is of course a lot to be conquered but I think it’s a positive future.
What is your take on the reading culture in Nepal?
I think people have become more enthusiastic readers. We can see a considerable improvement in the reading habits of youngsters these days. Whenever there is a new book in the market, there is a lot of buzz and there is a lot of excitement.