Environmental scientist Chandra Giri launches debut novel on illegal migration – The Himalayan Times – Nepal’s No.1 English Daily Newspaper

KATHMANDU, JUNE 30

Internationally renowned environmental scientist Dr Chandra Giri has launched his debut novel, Donkey (Sapana ko Kalbato), a work that explores the dangers, sacrifices and emotional toll of irregular migration to the United States.

The book was unveiled at the Nepal Tourism Board in Kathmandu by Dr Giri alongside Madan Puraskar-winning author Krishna Dharabasi, Onlinekhabar Editor-in-Chief Basanta Basnet, writer Bina Thing and author Shankar Giri ‘Pathik’.

Published by Book Hill, the novel follows the journey of a young Nepali who reaches the United States through an illegal migration route, depicting the hardships faced both during the journey and after arrival as an undocumented migrant.

Speaking at the launch, Dharabasi described the novel as an authentic and compelling portrayal of illegal migration, while Basnet said readers would feel as though they were travelling alongside the protagonist.

Writer Bina Thing said the novel raises timely questions about why many young Nepalis continue to seek opportunities abroad despite having stable lives at home, highlighting the social and psychological pressures driving migration.

Dr Giri, who currently serves as a senior adviser at the US Environmental Protection Agency and an adjunct professor at Duke University, has previously published an autobiography and a travel memoir. Donkey marks his first work of fiction.