Hello There!
University Gold Medalist in Civil Engineering · Researcher · Innovator
Bridging engineering fundamentals with IoT and machine learning to build smarter, sustainable and resilient infrastructure.
About Me
My name is Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, and I'm a University Gold Medalist in Civil Engineering. Throughout my academic journey, I've consistently aimed to combine my passion for engineering with a drive to solve practical, real-world problems. Whether presenting research at symposiums or working alongside industry experts, I've always sought to push the boundaries of innovation within civil engineering.
I am particularly fascinated by how technology can transform traditional engineering practices. My research interests lie in integrating advanced tools like the Internet of Things (IoT) and Machine Learning (ML) to address some of the most pressing challenges the civil engineering community faces today. I believe that bridging the gap between engineering fundamentals and cutting-edge technology offers an opportunity for more innovative, sustainable solutions—and I want to be part of that change.
In my collaborations with professors and peers, my strength has always been my ability to absorb knowledge and multitask effectively and quickly. This adaptability has enhanced my technical skills and nurtured a deeper appreciation for teamwork and shared learning. I am also dedicated to applying my skills to create meaningful, positive changes for society. My work aims to develop solutions that enhance the quality of life, foster sustainability, and make infrastructure smarter and more resilient.
Beyond academics, I am dedicated to mentoring fellow students and sharing my journey to inspire others to explore the exciting intersections of engineering and technology. I hope this platform gives an insight into my experiences, values, and vision for the future. I'm excited to bring my curiosity, skills, and passion for innovation into my next academic endeavor. Thank you for visiting—I look forward to connecting and sharing more as I continue this journey of learning, innovation, and societal betterment.
Academic Details
The complete academic profile listed on Sanjog’s Google Sites portfolio.
Published / Ongoing Review Papers
All 26 civil-engineering research entries, with contributors, highlights, status and every listed publication link.
Contributors: Sufyan Ghani, Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Raushan Kumar Singh, Abidhan Bardhan, Panagiotis G. Asteris
Status: Published in Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering (Elsevier)
Contributors: Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Prasenjit Saha, Sourav Das, L. V. Prasad Meesaraganda
Status: Published, Asian journal of civil engineering (Springer, Scopus)
Contributors: Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Sourav Das, Prasenjit Saha
Status: Published in Structures, Elsevier, I.F 4.1
Contributors: Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Sagar Sapkota, Tushar Bansal
Status: Published in Arabian Journal for Science and Technology, Springer
Contributors: Endow Ayar Mazumder, Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Sourav Das, Prasenjit Saha, and Pijush Samui
Status: Published, Computers and Concrete (Techno press (SCI-indexed), I.F 4.1)
Contributors: Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Dipak Dahal, Ajay Yadav, Dipak Dhakal, Satish Paudel
Status: Accepted (Yet to publish in Practice Periodical on Structural Design and Construction, ASCE (SCI-indexed)
Contributors: Prasenjit Saha, Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Sourav Das
Status: Accepted (Published, Structural Engineering International, Taylor and Francis (SCI-indexed)
Contributors: Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Ajay Yadav, Ajaya Khatri, Tushar Singh and Dipak Dahal
Status: Published in Multiscale and Multidisciplinary Modeling, Experiments and Design, Springer
Contributors: Ajad Shrestha, Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Bijay Bhatt, Md Ahatasamul Hoque
Status: Ongoing Review in Journal of Sustainable Cement-Based Materials, Taylor and Francis
Contributors: Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Dipak Dahal, Ajay Yadav, Dipak Dhakal, Ram Kumar Sharma, Gaurav Saini
Status: Ongoing Review in Innovative Infrastructures Solutions
Contributors: Bishwash Paneru, Biplov Paneru, Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Dhiraj Kumar Mandal, Prem Giri
Status: Published in International Journal of Hydrogen Energy, Elsevier, I.F 8.1
Contributors: Soumitra Kumar Kundu, Ashim Kanti Dey, Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Prasenjit Debnath, Prasenjit Saha, Arunava Ray, Manoj Khandelwal
Status: Published in Journal of GeoPhysics, Elsevier
Contributors: Ashwin N Raut, Anant Lal Murmu, Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Sourav Das, Prasenjit Saha
Status: (Accepted in (Construction and Building Materials, Elsevier)
Contributors: Amit Saha, Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Prasenjit Saha, Prasenjit Debnath, Suman Hazari, Sourav Das, Pijush Samu[i]
Status: Published in Proceedings of the Institution of Civil Engineers-Ground Improvement, Emerald Publishing Limited
Contributors: Ajad Shrestha, Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota
Status: Published in Asian Journal of Civil Engineering, Springer
Contributors: Ajaya Subedi, Bhum Bahadur Thapa, Ashish Poudel, Binaya Adhikari, Binod Khadka, Samrat Poudel & Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota
Status: Published in Asian Journal of Civil Engineering, Springer
Contributors: G.Panth, A.Shrestha, Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota
Status: (Published, Asian Journal of Civil Engineering, Springer)
Contributors: Ajaya Khatri, Ashish Thapa, Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota
Status: On going Review in (Soil Dynamics and Earthquake Engineering, Elsevier)
Contributors: Md Ahatasamul Hoque, Ajad Shrestha, Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Asif Ahmed & Satish Paudel
Status: Published in Asian Journal of Civil Engineering, Springer
Contributors: Prasenjit Saha, Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Sourav Das, Naveen Kwatra
Status: Published in Multiscale and Multidisciplinary Modeling, Experiments and Design, Springer
Contributors: Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Sagar Sapkota, Gaurav Saini
Status: Published in Multiscale and Multidisciplinary Modeling, Experiments and Design, Springer
Contributors: Mrimoy Dhar, Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Prasenjit Saha
Status: Reviewing in (Flow Measurement and instrumentation, Elsevier, I.F 2.2)
Contributors: Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Sagar Sapkota, Sani Isa aba, Gaurav Saini
Status: Reviewing to Arabian Journal of Science and Technology (Springer, SCI-indexed)
Contributors: Ajaya Subedi, Binaya Adhikari, Ashish Poudel, Binod Khadka, Samrat Poudel, Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota
Status: Published in Discover Civil Engineering, Springer
Contributors: Umesh Kumar Das, Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Prasenjit Saha, Sameer Arora
Status: Reviewing in Hydrogeology journal, Springer (I.F 2.8)
Contributors: Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Musa Adamu, Prasenjit Saha, Sourav Das
Status: Reviewing in (Congent Engineering, Taylor and Francis)
Academic Projects
Current initiatives, planned review articles, future research articles and proposal directions.
Contributors: Ashwin Rawat, Sanjog Chhetri Sapkota, Prasenjit Saha, and Sourav Das
Major oxide ratios (Si/Al, Al/Na, Si/Na, Na/H₂O), thermal effects, ML validation, over 98% reported hybrid-model accuracy, and a GUI for engineering decisions. Planning to send to Construction and Building Materials (I.F. 7.1).
LSTM, Bi-LSTM, GRU and RNN time-series models; Sanjog actively participated in composing a manuscript for research documentation.
Laboratory peak shear-stress data, an optimal boosting model in Python, explainable behavior and comparison with standalone and ensemble ML.
I am keenly interested in the intersection of Civil Engineering, IoT, and AI/ML, as this integration offers improved problem-solving capabilities with greater accuracy and ease. Additionally, I am open to collaboration in independent projects within the field of Civil Engineering.
It will be updated soon. It will be carried out with dedicated members in the future, following the vision of the “Nepalese in Research” Campaign under NRCCNEPAL. I initiated the campaign. My students further extended and executed it.
Patents
Some highlights of the certificate and the patent filings are attached on the source page; additional attachments with details will be added soon. View the original certificate carousel ↗
This patent presents an integrated real-time monitoring system for pipe fluid management, employing IoT-based technology with solar-powered functionality to monitor and visualize fluid conditions within pipelines, such as sewage systems, remotely. The system eliminates the need for physical inspections, providing real-time insights via a web-based interface. Designed for optimal efficiency, the system was demonstrated successfully in a university setup, monitoring interconnected manholes spanning a range of up to 200 meters.
The System and Method of Pipe Fluid Monitoring System addresses critical challenges in monitoring pipeline fluid conditions, particularly in sewage systems, by offering a sustainable, automated, and efficient solution. The system integrates IoT sensors, solar power, and web-based visualization tools to provide real-time feedback on pipe fluid levels, flow rates, and potential blockages or overflows.
This patent builds upon the success of a prior web-based sewage monitoring project and incorporates several advancements to create a scalable and robust solution. It employs solar-powered IoT nodes deployed across the pipeline network, particularly at manholes, enabling seamless data collection and transmission to a central server. The data is then processed and visualized through a web-based application, which provides stakeholders with actionable insights without requiring manual inspections.
This patent demonstrates a technological leap in pipeline fluid monitoring, offering a sustainable, efficient, and scalable solution that leverages real-time data for proactive decision-making. By addressing traditional challenges such as energy dependence, safety concerns, and manual labor, this system has the potential to revolutionize fluid monitoring in various industries.
This patent introduces an IoT-based solar composting attachment system designed to accelerate the waste-to-nutrient-rich soil conversion process. The system integrates solar power and IoT sensors with advanced machine learning algorithms to monitor, classify, and optimize composting conditions in real-time. This innovative system enhances composting efficiency and sustainability by detecting nutrient levels and classifying waste conversion stages.
The IoT-Based Solar Composting Attachments patent addresses the growing need for sustainable and efficient composting solutions. This system employs solar-powered IoT technology combined with machine learning models to optimize the composting process.
The system continuously monitors key parameters such as nutrient composition, temperature, humidity, and organic content in the waste. Using machine learning, it classifies the waste conversion stages into nutrient-rich soil, providing real-time feedback and recommendations to enhance the composting process.
This self-sustaining system, powered by integrated solar panels, operates in any environment without external energy sources, making it both cost-effective and eco-friendly.
This patent delivers a next-generation composting solution that leverages solar energy and IoT technology to optimize waste management practices. By reducing waste-to-soil conversion time and improving compost quality through machine learning, this innovation addresses key environmental challenges while promoting sustainable waste recycling practices.
This patent presents a hydraulic-based scaffolding prop system enhanced with advanced sensor integration for improved construction safety and adaptability. The system is designed to adjust scaffolding height dynamically based on project complexity and specific requirements, ensuring precise leveling and eliminating the limitations of traditional scaffolding methods. Its customizable and intelligent design enhances operational efficiency and worker safety on construction sites.
The Effective Scaffolding Prop for Construction Safety introduces a hydraulic-based design equipped with integrated sensors for real-time adjustments and monitoring. This system revolutionizes traditional scaffolding methods by offering smart leveling capabilities and height adjustment to match the complexity of various construction projects.
Sensors embedded in the system continuously monitor the structural stability and alignment of the scaffolding, ensuring optimal safety standards. The hydraulic mechanism enables seamless height adjustments with minimal manual intervention, accommodating intricate design requirements. The system's customizable framework makes it suitable for diverse applications, ranging from small-scale projects to large, complex construction sites.
This patent introduces an innovative scaffolding solution that enhances safety, adaptability, and efficiency in construction projects. By integrating hydraulic mechanisms and smart sensors, this system addresses traditional limitations, offering a customizable and intelligent scaffolding solution that sets a new benchmark for construction safety.
This patent describes a method and composition for producing geopolymer concrete by utilizing construction waste as a primary raw material. The innovation emphasizes sustainable construction practices by replacing conventional cement with geopolymeric binders derived from industrial and construction by-products. The method involves specific proportions of construction waste, alkaline activators, and supplementary materials to achieve high mechanical strength, durability, and environmental benefits.
The Method and Composition of Geopolymer Concrete with Construction Waste aims to reduce environmental impact by recycling construction and demolition waste (CDW) into high-performance geopolymer concrete. This method combines construction waste with alkaline activators such as sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate to form a robust geopolymeric matrix.
The process involves:
The final product exhibits excellent compressive strength, low permeability, and resistance to chemical attacks, making it suitable for various construction applications.
This patent demonstrates a sustainable and innovative approach to producing geopolymer concrete, addressing critical environmental challenges associated with construction waste and cement production. By integrating geopolymer technology with construction waste recycling, this invention paves the way for greener and more efficient construction materials.
This patent presents an innovative method and system for inhibiting corrosion through the application of coatings derived from botanical extracts, enhanced with machine learning (ML) to optimize the coating process. The system utilizes data-driven models to adapt coating formulations, application parameters, and environmental responsiveness in real-time, thereby accelerating development and improving corrosion resistance. This approach combines sustainable, eco-friendly practices with advanced technological solutions to deliver a scalable and efficient method for corrosion prevention across diverse industrial applications.
This patent describes a method and system that leverages botanical extracts as eco-friendly corrosion inhibitors, enhanced with machine learning optimization for precise control of the coating process. The innovation involves a multi-step process that integrates real-time data collection, predictive modeling, and dynamic parameter adjustments to improve the performance and efficiency of the corrosion inhibition system.
Process Overview
This patent delivers a sustainable, technology-driven solution for corrosion inhibition that significantly enhances efficiency, adaptability, and environmental friendliness. Integrating machine learning optimization with botanical extracts represents a transformative approach to combating corrosion in modern industrial applications.
This patent introduces an automated sitting assembly specifically designed to enhance the comfort and usability for elderly individuals. The assembly integrates an adjustable seating mechanism equipped with smart sensors and automation to customize seating positions in real-time. The system allows for ergonomic adjustments such as seat height, backrest angle, and cushioning firmness, ensuring optimal comfort based on the user's preferences and physical needs. The customizable and automated design promotes ease of use, safety, and independence for elderly individuals.
The Automated Sitting Assembly for Elderly People is designed to address common challenges faced by elderly individuals, such as difficulty in sitting and standing, improper posture, and discomfort during prolonged use. The system combines smart sensing technology with automated adjustments to provide a customized seating experience.
This patent provides a highly adaptable and user-centric solution for improving the quality of life of elderly individuals. By combining ergonomics, automation, and smart technology, the automated sitting assembly ensures comfort, independence, and safety, redefining seating solutions for the elderly.
This patent presents an efficient and optimized door stopper design that ensures reliable functionality and cost-effectiveness. The door stopper is engineered with an optimized shape to respond accurately to applied forces and maintain stability under varying conditions. Its innovative design offers enhanced durability, ease of installation, and compatibility with different door types, making it a low-cost yet highly effective solution for residential, commercial, and industrial applications.
This patent introduces a door stopper that combines an optimized geometric design with cost-effective manufacturing techniques. The innovation focuses on creating a product that is not only affordable but also adaptable to various environments, ensuring widespread applicability.
This patent introduces a highly efficient, low-cost door stopper design that combines optimized functionality with user convenience. Its adaptable and durable construction makes it a sustainable and widely applicable solution for diverse environments, redefining everyday utility with advanced design principles.
This patent introduces a galvanic approach to corrosion inhibition, employing innovative processes and mechanisms to protect metallic surfaces in corrosive environments. The invention explores the use of sacrificial anodes, hybrid coatings, and eco-friendly inhibitors as alternative methods to traditional techniques. These solutions effectively mitigate corrosion by leveraging galvanic principles, optimizing electrochemical properties, and reducing the environmental impact.
This patent describes a galvanic-based corrosion inhibition approach that combines sacrificial anode systems, advanced coatings, and innovative eco-friendly alternatives. The invention focuses on achieving superior protection for metallic surfaces in diverse environments, including marine, industrial, and infrastructure settings.
Galvanic Mechanism: The process relies on galvanic action, wherein a sacrificial anode is strategically coupled with the protected metal. The anode corrodes preferentially, providing cathodic protection to the metallic substrate.
This patent introduces a sustainable and adaptive solution for metallic corrosion inhibition, leveraging galvanic principles and eco-friendly technologies. By integrating advanced coatings, predictive analytics, and real-time monitoring, this invention offers a versatile approach to combating corrosion across diverse industries, promoting durability and environmental sustainability.
This patent presents an automated sitting assembly designed for elderly individuals, featuring adjustable leg heights, ergonomic optimization, and smart sensing technology. The chair provides fully customizable seating positions, adapting to the user's comfort and physical needs. Its innovative design includes motorized height adjustment for the legs, real-time backrest alignment sensing, and ergonomically optimized adjustments for maximum safety and ease of use. This unique system offers a blend of advanced technology and user-centric design, enhancing comfort and independence for elderly users.
The Automated Sitting Assembly with Adjustable Features for Elderly People is designed to address the unique physical and ergonomic needs of elderly individuals. This assembly combines advanced technology with user-focused design to ensure comfort, safety, and adaptability.
Key Features
This patent introduces a revolutionary sitting assembly tailored for elderly individuals, blending customizable adjustments, advanced sensing technology, and ergonomic optimization. Its unique features ensure comfort, independence, and adaptability, setting a new standard for seating solutions in both personal and institutional settings.
Passion Projects
This section intends to give an overview of my passion-driven problem-solving projects, which have been developed in collaboration with others and have led to the filing of numerous patents. Since it is a work in progress, the content will be added simultaneously in the upcoming times. Many patents were designed and consecutively filed as innovations on the projects, from simple modifications to improving the problem-solving process. The insights into such things were developed when my professor, Prof. Saini, focused on the subject named “Design, Technology, and Innovation” from the NPTEL online study. This has given me a profound interest in the things required for innovation in solving general existing problems.
Prior to my undergrad study, I was involved in different construction projects, which directly and indirectly laid a strong foundation for solving the problems. This section highlights the areas where I want to work to solve the issues.
The passion-driven projects section will include detailed reports and an approach to solving the problems in Nepal and the Indian subcontinent.
Updating soon.
Media Coverage
Five talks on research culture, practical problem-solving, education and global university applications.
In a recent interview, I discussed decoding research papers to make the process accessible and impactful for students and aspiring researchers. I highlighted the importance of research in driving innovation, solving real-world problems, and advancing knowledge. I explained the research process, from identifying problems and reviewing literature to analyzing data and publishing results, emphasizing the need for critical thinking at every step. The talk covered how to find research gaps by analyzing existing studies, evaluating trends, and addressing practical needs to ensure originality and value. I clarified the difference between research and review articles—research articles generate new data, while review articles summarize and evaluate existing work to provide direction. Practical advice was shared for beginners: start small, read extensively, seek mentorship, and stay persistent. The interview aimed to inspire others to explore the transformative world of research.
Watch on YouTube ↗In a recent media interview, I shared my thoughts on the importance of research, emphasizing that research is not merely for paper publication—it is about solving real-world problems and creating meaningful impact. I reflected on my journey, from being a university gold medalist to writing numerous research papers, filing patents, identifying problems, and developing solutions. I discussed my vision of fostering a culture of research in Nepal through the Campaign for Nepalese in Research, focused on innovation, collaboration and solution-oriented research. The campaign has addressed multiple research problems, with outcomes presented in top journals and shared with various ministries of Nepal, offering actionable solutions for national development.
Watch on YouTube ↗I emphasized why research is necessary and how it should be ingrained in education from school days to foster critical thinking and innovation early on. Research is especially vital for developing nations, as it provides effective, long-lasting solutions to pressing problems. I highlighted the Nepalese in Research campaign, its solution-oriented approach tailored to Nepal’s challenges, and actionable insights presented in top journals and to government ministries.
Watch on YouTube ↗I discussed how solving smaller problems with effective and efficient solutions is a critical aspect of research. Seminars in engineering colleges encouraged students and faculty to move beyond grades and embrace research as a means of creating solutions that directly benefit society. Nepalese in Research, under NRCC Nepal, tackles smaller yet impactful problems through technology, original concepts and respect for local culture. The aim is to cultivate extraordinary research skills among young engineers and build a research-driven mindset in Nepal.
Watch on YouTube ↗At Progress Engineering Academy (PEA), I shared insights on research, skills and preparation for higher education at top global universities. Despite multiple admissions, I chose not to go because I wanted further preparation and to grow Nepal’s research culture. The session covered my choices; what universities seek—research experience, skills, academic consistency and authentic motivation; effective LORs, CVs and SOPs; why research is key for MS/PhD applications; the free Nepalese in Research campaign; and why practical skills, leadership and impact should be the priority.
Watch on YouTube ↗Verse and Vision · Unspoken Words
The complete imaginative tale from Sanjog’s original site.
I was taking a respite from my demanding schedule, embarking on a journey from Kathmandu to Pokhara, seeking a tranquil escape to relax and recharge. As the bus rumbled along the winding roads, I sat beside a man named Nir. His presence exuded an aura of serenity, yet his eyes bore a weight of hidden pain concealed behind a faint but persistent smile.
Over the years, I had cultivated the ability to discern the unspoken thoughts and emotions of others, and it seemed that Nir had rarely encountered a receptive listener. Many had remarked that I possessed the gift of being a keen and empathetic listener. Our conversation meandered through various topics during our voyage towards Pokhara, including our respective professions. However, it became increasingly apparent that Nir carried a burden of untold stories and emotions within him, ones he had yet to share with anyone.
With a gentle tone and a sense of empathy, I broached the subject, expressing my intuition that he harbored unspoken sentiments. After all, this encounter was a fleeting one, and the likelihood of our paths crossing again in this lifetime was uncertain. Initially, Nir appeared somewhat uncomfortable with my inquiry, but as the bus came to a pause for an oil refill, he gradually allowed, choosing that moment to unburden his heart.
He recounted how their initial meeting had taken place during their school days and then proceeded to divulge every intricate detail of their journey together.
'Wait, wait, I'm coming,' a dulcet voice, honeyed and soothing, beckoned from behind. I turned and beheld a vision of beauty, a captivating girl with a smile that could enter even the coldest heart. Her alluring features held me in a mesmerizing trance, and I found myself gazing upon her for an eternity in just a few moments. A solitary mole adorned her right cheek, an enchanting detail that drew me in like a moth to a flame.
Never before had I encountered eyes with such profound depths. It was as if she harbored a multitude of secrets, some perhaps veiled in darkness, buried deep within her. Her gaze spoke volumes, hinting at untold mysteries waiting to be unraveled.
Her arrival in my life marked a profound shift, eclipsing all other aspirations. Her presence became my world. Our eyes had met in fleeting moments, but words remained elusive between us. Her absence cast a shadow over my days. It was an age of innocence, where emotions burned fiercely. My feelings for her remained a well-guarded secret, hidden deep within my heart.
Then, one day, she broke the silence with a simple 'Hello.' Happiness surged within me, and I greeted her warmly. After a pause, I summoned the courage to inquire about her name. However, she asked for my name, and I replied, 'Nir Katwal, Sec E.' Her laughter filled the air as she found my name unique. I explained its Sanskrit meaning as 'Without', and she was intrigued.
She introduced herself as Vani Karki, Sec H. Laughter flowed freely between us. At that moment, an unspoken connection was forged. We were both aware of it. For teenagers of fourteen to fifteen, such moments held a profound significance. She suggested we part ways for now, with the promise of future meetings.
As we went our separate ways, the anticipation of future encounters hung in the air, and the bond between us continued to deepen, nurtured by the magic of that first conversation that day. Our connection remained strong, even though our conversations remained sparse. The depth of our feelings grew with each passing day. We both sensed the gravity and seriousness of what lay between us. It was a constant battle within me, the desire to express my love warring with the fear of rejection and the potential loss of our friendship. So, I kept my emotions locked away, hidden from the world.
In the midst of our conversations, she playfully teased me, trying to uncover my feelings indirectly. She'd say, 'Nir means 'Without,' and Vani means 'Expressive,' so together, they become 'Without Expressive.' Or perhaps, it means 'Without Vani.'' It might have been a casual remark, but it struck a chord deep within me. My life without Vani was unimaginable, and it seemed she felt the same way. Our love didn't need words; it thrived in our silence.
As time passed, our love only deepened. We shared countless moments together, and we even enrolled in the same university. At one point, thoughts of marriage crossed our minds. We cherished each particular event, capturing those moments as souvenirs of our love.
However, the path to a lifelong union is fraught with challenges, including the approval of families and other considerations. In our case, caste was never an issue, but other factors conspired against us. She made a painful decision without discussing it with me. After we graduated, her family found a prospective groom for her, and she chose to follow their wishes without informing me. I was no ordinary lover, a graduate with dreams and aspirations beyond mere romance.
The pain and heartbreak I experienced after learning about her decisions left me shattered and inconsolable. She had made choices that profoundly affected our lives without even a word of explanation. I grappled with the understanding that she had been under immense pressure, and her family had faced their share of difficulties. Life was undoubtedly different for her, and I wished her nothing but the best in everything she pursued. In my heart, there was a burning desire to marry her, to be by her side because I believed that no one could care for and love her as deeply as I did. My world had irrevocably changed, and I carried the heavy weight of heartache deep within me. The question that haunted my thoughts day and night was why she hadn't confided in me, why she had chosen not to share her struggles. We had been through various stages of a relationship, but she had never found it within herself to confide in me. The turmoil of emotions within me gave rise to countless unspoken questions, and I wept for days. It was a stark reminder that men, too, are not immune to the pain of heartbreak; we, too, shed tears.
Nothing in my life remained the same after that moment. Her seemingly immature decision profoundly impacted the lives of three individuals: herself, me, and her husband. She couldn't be mine, yet she couldn't wholly belong to him either. While I wished for her happiness above all else, I couldn't help but lament that she never indeed recognized the love that resided in my eyes throughout our time together. I questioned my worth as a lover, berating myself for not being able to make her see what we had. The months passed, and it took me more than three agonizing months to accept that she was no longer a part of my life. I had loved her with all my heart, and the void she left behind was immeasurable. Then, five months later, fate brought an unexpected encounter. I saw her in a shopping mall, accompanied by her husband. He appeared somewhat older, with thinning hair and a nearly balding scalp. I couldn't help but remember when I had been with her, and she had remarked that she would never marry a bald man, urging me to take care of my hair.
Upon seeing them, my overwhelming emotion was not anger but rather sadness. I couldn't help but wonder what she hoped to achieve with a life marked by compromises and the exchange of emotions with someone she could never truly love. I firmly believed that love had the power to grow exponentially, and it only took one particular moment to plant the seed of love that could last a lifetime.
The moment I laid eyes on her again, it was as if time had rewound to our first encounter. Her husband, engrossed in a phone call, had wandered into a men's clothing store. I couldn't contain my emotions and asked her how she was, if everything in her life was going well. She responded with a simple nod, tears glistening in both our eyes. The weight of unspoken words hung heavy between us, and I couldn't help but express my regret that she had never confided in me before making those life-altering decisions. I assured her that I would have moved mountains to be with her, to keep her by my side. She offered a heartfelt apology, explaining that at that point in time, she couldn't bring herself to go against her family's wishes. She emphasized that her life had been turned upside down too.
In a poignant moment, she reminded me of our names, NirVani, and how it meant 'Without Vani.' She professed her enduring love for me, saying, 'I love you, Nir, I love you till my last breath.' She urged me to think about moving forward and settling down. Her voice cracked as she confessed that even now, her heart longed to abandon everything and run away with me. However, societal norms and the need for respect had kept her bound. Tears welled up in my eyes as I asked her how she could forget me and make such a life-altering decision. I wondered what would become of my life now. After a pause, I admitted that I couldn't find happiness anymore; I would simply exist. I couldn't bring myself to say that she was the reason, as my love for her had always been wholehearted. I yearned for her to be with me in every life to come, and I questioned if she would love me in our next reincarnation.
she implored me to move on and start a new life by getting married. I knew I had to leave the country soon, and I wished for her to find lifelong happiness. In that moment, her husband returned, and without a word, I turned and left, vowing never to show my face to her again.
Nir's heartfelt confession weighed heavily on my heart, and I couldn't help but feel a profound sadness for him. He wiped away his tears and lamented how different our lives might have been if she had chosen him. Despite achieving academic success with a PhD and a successful career, he confessed to carrying a persistent void within him. The fear of doing injustice to someone by marrying without his heart being fully committed left him in a state of uncertainty. It was evident that his love for her still held a deep place in his heart.
Listening to Nir's story left me deeply moved and saddened by the twists and turns that love and life can take. It was a stark reminder that some love stories, despite deserving a better outcome, end up in painful situations. As we approached our destination, Pokhara, a somber silence enveloped us. With a heavy heart, I told Nir that life had its way of unfolding, even when it seemed unjust. Nir managed a smile, and after a couple of minutes, our journey came to an end.
Expressing his gratitude, Nir acknowledged that I had been a good listener, and it seemed to provide him with some solace. He bid me farewell, saying, 'You are a good listener, brother. I feel much lighter now. Thank you so much.' I asked for his contact details, but he simply stated that he would be available at Lakeside whenever he will be in Nepal and left without providing any means of contact.
As we parted ways, the bittersweet reality of love's complexities lingered in the air, a poignant reminder of how love, despite its depth and intensity, could lead us down paths we never expected.
Research & Collaboration
Connect for research collaboration, civil-engineering innovation, mentoring and multidisciplinary projects.