Founder of Mamaa Arts, Ingi Hopo Koinch Sunuwar, has been active in the theatre field since 2015, working as an actor, director, writer and instructor. He has acted in more than two dozen plays like ‘Jaar’, ‘Paanch’, ‘Animal Farm’ and ‘Dayalu Rukh’, as well as movies like ‘Damaru ko Dandibiyo’.

His directorial works include ‘Damini Bhir’ and ‘Senako Cheli’. The latter even won first place in the Nepal Army Short Movie Competition in 2022 and received a special jury award in KIMFF 2022.

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

How significant has the role of books been in shaping your interest in theatre?

Books have been a big help in teaching me about art, society and culture. Regarding theatre, the stories and emotions from books are like a guide. We use them to imagine and show our feelings and art on stage. I firmly believe that without immersing ourselves in the world of books, our ability to present different narratives and stories on stage effectively would be limited.

When did your interest in books begin?

I started reading around 2007. Before that, I wasn’t very interested in books, possibly because the way our course books are designed made reading seem dull and tedious. It wasn’t until 2011 that I began to read vigorously.

‘Urgen ko Ghoda’ by Yug Pathak was the first novel I ever finished reading. Prior to that, I struggled to finish entire books and only read snippets. The sense of satisfaction and accomplishment spurred me to further explore and relish the world of books.

What genres do you usually read?

When I first started reading, I liked novels. As time passed, I began reading about history, politics and culture. I have a penchant for books about specific ethnicities and societies, particularly those focusing on indigenous people. I find it interesting to learn about my culture and history through books.

Generally, though, I don’t stick to just one type of book because it would limit what I can learn. I like reading different kinds of books because it helps me understand the world better.

Is there any book that has influenced you greatly?

Choosing just one book is difficult as all the books I’ve read have left a lasting impact on me. Books, to me, are like exploring unknown parts of the ocean, no matter how many times I dive in. However, if I had to pick one, it would be ‘Khana Pugos, Dina Pugos’ by Rabindra Mishra. This book instilled in me the importance of looking after ourselves and caring for those around us.

What are your thoughts on the representation of diverse individuals in Nepali literature?

While there are books touching on different communities, they often fall short of capturing the true essence and depth of those communities. This gap is also noticeable in our education system, where not all castes and communities, especially indigenous ones, are represented in the curriculum. Most of us are unfamiliar with many Nepali cultures and communities.

In contrast, foreign countries actively highlight and celebrate their ethnicities and communities. A notable example is the popular ‘Avatar’ franchise based on an indigenous community. I believe that books and literature are like mirrors reflecting our society. So, there’s a need for more books that explore Nepali culture.

How much responsibility do you think an artist or theatre director bears in correctly representing a particular culture or adaptation of a book?

When artists or theatre directors tell stories about a culture or turn a book into a play, they have a huge responsibility. It’s hard to include every detail, but we shouldn’t avoid our responsibility because it’s difficult or scary. When dealing with a book about a specific community or culture, handling the representation carefully is very important.

When I’m adapting books into plays, I always try to understand the book’s main ideas. The most important thing is to be able to correctly showcase the true spirit of the book and the culture it talks about. Despite the challenges, if we can capture the natural feeling and richness of the original material, I see that as successfully fulfilling our duty as artists and theatre directors.

Can theatre contribute to reviving our diminishing reading culture?

Absolutely. Many plays are adaptations of books and as artists, we need to thoroughly read and understand the book before bringing it to the stage. So, theatre artists usually read a lot. Beyond that, theatre can encourage the general audience to develop reading habits. I’ve seen lots of people becoming interested in reading the book that a play is based on after watching it in the theatre.

Book enthusiasts often attend plays to see how their favourite stories are brought to life on stage. So, theatre can, to some extent, help bring back the love for reading.

How can we foster a culture of reading?

Coming from an indigenous background, my family had little exposure to education. My mother and even my father, who studied only till grade 4, never had the chance or inclination to keep books in our house. However, I saw numerous books at the homes of friends whose parents were educators or had received proper education. Consequently, those friends subconsciously developed a reading habit at home.

I strongly believe that the love for reading starts at home. When someone in your family engages in reading or discusses politics and global events, you naturally learn and become interested.

How important is the habit of reading?

Developing the habit of reading books beyond the school curriculum is vital. Reading out loud can make your pronunciation and language skills better. It helps you understand different perspectives and how to relate to another. Most importantly, books help us think critically. If there is a resurgence in reading habits, our society can improve greatly.

What advice would you offer to someone who is just starting to read?

Try dedicating 10 to 15 minutes daily to reading. Begin with short stories or news articles and gradually make reading a regular habit. You might feel bored; however, it is essential to remember that beyond your academic materials, there are numerous wonderful and life-changing books worth exploring.

Ingi Hopo Koinch Sunuwar’s book recommendations

Aagoko Pidar

Author: Mithoch

Publication: Phoenix Books

Year: 2023

Mithoch discusses the changes everyone goes through in a simple and relatable fashion in ‘Aagoko Pidar’. Through different poems in this collection, he talks about consciousness, suffering and the true essence of knowledge.

Khana Pugos, Dina Pugos

Author: Rabindra Mishra

Publication: Nepalaya Publication

Year: 2012

‘Khana Pugos, Dina Pugos’ holds a special place in my heart. Mishra introduced a fresh perspective on philanthropy and journalism in this book. It taught me the significance of caring for ourselves as well as for others.

Jitko Paribhasa

Author: Sanu Sharma

Publication: Highland Publication

2010

Sharma adeptly portrays the vulnerability and resilience of a family in ‘Jitko Paribhasa’. As I read about their challenges and triumphs, I was moved by their strength and love for each other. This book teaches us about the intricacies of life and its struggles.

Mukdumko Serofero

Author: Atit Mukhiya

Publication: Sunuwar Samaj, Hongkong

Year: 2020

In ‘Mukdumko Serofero’, Mukhiya depicts the culture and rituals of Kirat Sunuwars. It serves as an excellent resource for understanding the beliefs of the Sunuwar community and exploring our connection with nature, the community’s cultural practices, lifestyle and philosophy.

Damini Bhir

Author: Rajan Mukarung

Publication: Phoenix Books

Year: 2012

I directed a play inspired by this book, so it is special for me. The novel is set during the decade-long insurgency in Nepal. It sheds light on the conditions, psychology and customs of Nepali society during this turbulent period of transition.