101 Steps To Achieve Prosperity

Without any disrespect to the genre and the exceptionally talented creators that work in it, ‘101’ books are not usually tomes that present profound reflections on life and living. They are more light-hearted, informing the readers of facts they are supposed to find interesting or giving them a series of steps to follow to reach a certain relevant goal. Think ‘101 Things to Know About the Pyramids’ or ‘How to Make an Amazing Chicken Crust Pizza in 101 Easy Steps’. ‘101’ books are normally collections of small packets of easy-to-digest information.

Writer Ashbin Kumar Pudasaini’s “Samriddhi Ko Huthuti” (Inspiration for Prosperity) combines both. In other words, it utilises the genre trope of simplifying and compacting complicated and multidimensional issues to help the reader understand what they and those above and below them in the national hierarchy need to do to take the nation forward.

Born from a heart attack that nearly claimed the author’s life while serving as the head of Nepal Bank’s Karnali Provincial Office in Surkhet, this book is a comprehensive roadmap for Nepal’s development that emphasises the desperate need for good governance, prosperity and retaining our young people. As Pudasaini acknowledges in his two writer’s notes at the start of this work, this book comes from the deep sense of duty he, as someone who has been able to progress and reach a status of comfort and privilege, feels towards his fellow citizens and wants those in power to feel it  too.

And speaking of writer’s notes, in addition to providing context for the book, Pudasaini uses his to present a clear but distressing picture of the country. When Pudasaini began losing control of his body (he did not know it was a heart attack at first), he was first rushed to a clinic. However, the clinician could not even look at him because of a lack of equipment. He was then rushed to the Karnali Provincial Hospital where the doctors diagnosed him and put him in the ICU but could not do anything else. This was supposed to be the most advanced hospital in Karnali Province but it too did not have the machines and manpower necessary to operate on Pudasaini. And by the looks of it, neither did hospitals in neighbouring provinces, because he was referred straight to Kathmandu. 

Fortunately, Pudasaini had the means to get transported to the capital and fortunately, he survived the over two hours it took to get him there. But what about others? If urban places like Surkhet lack medical facilities, what can we expect in rural and remote areas?

And health is just one facet of it. None of our structures and mechanisms work as they should. Our state apparatus is hollow. It is just that we have not been declared a failed state officially, as Pudasaini says.

But the nation is not beyond saving. And it is not that hard to do too, as Pudasaini’s 101 tips for Nepal’s redemption shows. All it requires are concerted effort and honesty from those in the halls of power – political parties, bureaucracy and the government.

The essence of “Samriddhi ko Huthuti” lies in the 101 steps, presented in the form of essays, the author highlights for Nepal’s progress. Each of these essays takes a deep dive into an issue the writer feels is necessary to be studied but has been overlooked. And he does not just point out the problems while doing so. Pudasaini provides concrete solutions and actionable steps. In fact, this whole book is about ways to solve the problems that plague us. That is what sets this apart.

The insights the writer provides are rooted in his own experience. His background as a banker adds a unique dimension to the discourse on economic development and financial growth. He recognises the potential of the financial sector as an engine for growth and his suggestions reveal a keen understanding of the nuances of the Nepali society. This makes the book authentic. Pudasaini’s words do not come off as empty echoes of foreign books or development agency reports. They firmly stand on Nepal’s native context.

At its core, the book is also an exploration of the meaning of life after a brush with death. Pudasaini has never cared about development and he has never lost hope about Nepal’s ability to develop, as was evident in his last book “Battimuni Ujyalo” (Brightness Under the Lamp). But “Samriddhi ko Huthuti” is different as it is underlined by the writer’s determination to see Nepal a better country before he dies.

However, has this book come in the right format? That is a question that may gnaw at the readers. As mentioned above, “Samriddhi ko Huthuti” simplifies and compacts complex issues into easy-to-comprehend form, which makes it relatable and understandable to the masses. 

But it also removes nuances. One can’t help but feel that layers have been removed from the discussion. Each one of the 101 topics presented can be a book of their own. Containing them all in a single volume of 124 pages may have done a disservice to their depth.

In conclusion, “Samriddhi ko Huthuti” is more than a book; it is a rallying cry for a better Nepal. With its practical recommendations, philosophical insights and personal narrative, it seeks to challenge every one of us to develop a country we can be proud of.

(Mishra  is a TRN Journalist)