Pun makes coveted income from eatery

By Siraj Khan,Nepalgunj, Dec. 13: Ankit Pun, 43, from Bankatwa of Baijanath Rural Municipality-6 in Banke district, has proved that even a small venture can yield substantial income with hard work and dedication. 

Many find it surprising that he earns up to Rs. 150,000 a month solely from his small breakfast shop. But it is true, Pun makes a monthly income of Rs. 150,000 from his business.  

His spends most of his days managing the breakfast shop. Located in Samjhana Bazaar, his shop is named ‘(R+A) LGBTIQ Breakfast Shop.’ According to Pun, the shop brings in an average monthly income of Rs. 150,000. With this income, he plans to build a concrete house in his village. “The shop is running well and I aim to construct a proper house in the village with the earnings,” he shared.  

Pun also said that the shop represents not only himself and his wife, Rangita Bogati but also the sentiments of the sexual and gender minority community. Pun is a member of this community and actively represents their struggles and identity.  

Born with female genitalia, Pun realised at the age of 12 that he was more attracted to women than men. However, asserting his identity posed significant challenges. After nearly 15 years of struggle, Pun reconciled with his family in 2023. It was then that he opened his breakfast shop in Samjhana Bazaar, which has since become a popular destination, often bustling with customers.  

The income from the shop now sustains his family. Pun has also purchased two plots of land, one in Ranjha, Nepalgunj and another in Samjhana Bazaar, Baijanath, using his earnings.  

“I am happy to have established a business in my village and to have become self-reliant,” Pun said.