Just a few days ago, I had the opportunity to join a three-day professional development for educators involved in teaching indigenous students. With the management being newly appointed, there was some resistance to the changes being introduced. Being new to the team, I couldn't help but observe the subtle censorship of certain terms like "freedom" … Continue reading Embracing Inclusive Pedagogies: A Pathway to Empowering Indigenous Students
‘Papa Jaldi Aa Jana’ Will Always Be a Lullaby in My Heart
Recently, a course I was teaching had this challenge, “Describe a childhood song that you find memorable from your childhood. Explain how it influenced you and your development.” The chapter showed a mom singing a lullaby to her daughter. This brought back memories of their mothers to a few students who were struggling to maintain … Continue reading ‘Papa Jaldi Aa Jana’ Will Always Be a Lullaby in My Heart
Yearly Goals for Personal Relationship
January is ending! And this got me into the self-reflection mode. I did a self-assessment that was written in the previous blog. Setting yearly goals and looking at your most important relationships can help you grow and develop as a person. People can actively work to make their personal relationships healthier, more harmonious, and deeply … Continue reading Yearly Goals for Personal Relationship
Introducing InnerCompass: Navigating the Journey of Self-Discovery
Since we all are busy, losing touch with our real selves, goals, and ways to grow as people is easy. Understanding this, I'm excited to say that we are currently creating "InnerCompass," a unique app that will serve as your personal guide on your path to self-discovery and growth. Thanks to my son Sunnie Kapar, … Continue reading Introducing InnerCompass: Navigating the Journey of Self-Discovery
Finding Meaning in the Minions: Life Lessons from “Despicable Me”
When the silence and loneliness surround you, they get on your nerves. You start talking to yourself, acting to yourself (as I am the lone audience), or you endlessly scroll through your phone or YouTube. Yesterday, I came across "Despicable Me," which is an animated film series primarily known for its entertainment value and humour. … Continue reading Finding Meaning in the Minions: Life Lessons from “Despicable Me”
Eulogy to a Warmonger? My Thoughts on Henry Kissinger
On November 29, 2023, Henry Kissinger, a well-known politician and diplomat, passed away. His obituaries lauded him as a cunning Nobel Laureate diplomat who significantly contributed to global peace. Did he deserve the accolades that ultracrepidarian social media pundits bestowed upon his passing, or was he a warmonger and did not deserve to be a … Continue reading Eulogy to a Warmonger? My Thoughts on Henry Kissinger
Shaping Tomorrow: Teachers Outshine Technology in Educating Our Children
Recently, I visited Parariya, my village situated in Sarlahi, Nepal. Yes, I am from Madhesh. We have a school called Madhur Kunti Maya Secondary School, fondly referred to as Ma-Ku-Ma by the students and alums. This institution, a legacy of my grandparents, who dreamt of educating the children of their village, stands as a testament … Continue reading Shaping Tomorrow: Teachers Outshine Technology in Educating Our Children
Diwali Lights: A Tale of Two Worlds
As another Diwali (or Tihar as we Nepali call it) approaches – Laxmi Puja is on Sunday – I find myself enveloped in a blanket of nostalgia, my thoughts meandering through the lanes of my hometown in Nepal. The festival of lights, as joyous and radiant as it is, also casts a shadow of longing … Continue reading Diwali Lights: A Tale of Two Worlds
The Intertwining Tapestry of Culture, Tradition, Religion, and Globalization
Source: The Atlantic Yesterday was Karvachauth, which most Indian women observe, whereas Nepalese Hindus do not. I am an atheist, while my wife is an agnostic. I have never forced my Hindu beliefs — mind you, I grew up in a Catholic school, and so she did — on her or the children as well. … Continue reading The Intertwining Tapestry of Culture, Tradition, Religion, and Globalization
The Loneliness of Celebration: When Casteism Shadows Dashain
Source: Maicha and Boucha HAPPY DASHAIN! Dashain, for many, conjures images of families reuniting, laughter echoing from rooftops and waging the neighbourhood-friendly war with kites, and the joy of togetherness. Hindus all over the country celebrate Nepal's biggest and longest festival, which stands for the triumph of good over evil. At its heart, it's about … Continue reading The Loneliness of Celebration: When Casteism Shadows Dashain