Ghimire Yubaraj, a prominent figure in the Nepali drama scene, has been actively involved in the industry for over two decades. As the founder and artistic director of Shilpee Theatre in Battisputali, Yubaraj has made significant contributions to the development of theatre in Nepal. His journey in the world of drama began with a year-long acting course organized by Rastriya Nach Ghar, after which he pursued further training at the Commedia International Theatre School in Denmark, graduating in 2011.
Despite initially studying commerce in high school, Yubaraj’s passion for acting and theatre led him to embark on a career in the performing arts. Over the years, he has directed over two dozen dramas and acted in about one and a half dozen productions, showcasing his versatility and talent as both a director and actor.
In addition to his work in theatre, Yubaraj is also a published author, with three books to his name: ‘Bimokshya’, ‘Aandhi ko Manoram Nritya’, and ‘Rupantaran ka Laagi Rangamanch’. His literary pursuits reflect his deep connection to storytelling and the written word, further enriching his creative endeavors in the realm of drama.
In a recent conversation with the Post’s Timila Maharjan, Yubaraj delved into his love for books and literature, shedding light on how they have influenced his work as a director and actor. From his early exposure to Nepali literature in school to his exploration of international playwrights like Shakespeare, Henrik Ibsen, and Anton Chekhov, Yubaraj’s reading habits have played a crucial role in shaping his artistic sensibilities.
Yubaraj’s passion for literature is evident in the diverse range of authors and genres that have left a lasting impact on his work. From Indian dramas by Mohan Rakesh to the timeless classics of Shakespeare and the poignant realism of Ibsen and Chekhov, Yubaraj’s repertoire of influences is as varied as it is profound. Nepali writers like Laxmi Prasad Devkota, Parijat, and contemporary authors like Nayan Raj Pandey and Kumar Nagarkoti have also played a significant role in shaping his artistic vision.
When it comes to his writing process, Yubaraj emphasizes the importance of diverse experiences and a deep understanding of the subject matter. Drawing inspiration from a wide array of literary sources, he seeks to push the boundaries of his imagination and challenge conventional narratives in his plays and performances. Writing, for Yubaraj, is a means of expressing emotions and ideas that may not find full expression through acting or directing, allowing him to explore new creative avenues and delve into the depths of human experience.
In his recommendations for books that have left a lasting impression on him, Yubaraj highlights works like ‘The Hour We Knew Nothing of Each Other’ by Peter Handke, ‘No Exit’ by Jean-Paul Sartre, and ‘The Nordic Secret’ by Lene Rachel Andersen and Tomas Bjorkman. These thought-provoking reads offer insights into the complexities of human existence, philosophical inquiries, and the interplay between knowledge and societal development.
Overall, Ghimire Yubaraj’s deep-rooted love for books and literature serves as a driving force behind his artistic pursuits, enriching his creative process and inspiring innovative storytelling in the world of Nepali theatre. His dedication to exploring diverse literary landscapes and drawing from a wide range of influences underscores his commitment to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression and creating meaningful, thought-provoking work that resonates with audiences far and wide.
