Nikesh Thapaliya, 21, from Kathmandu, is a multiple world record holder and has had many other accomplishments. Currently residing in Chicago, he recently visited New York City on his 9-day long east coast trip and we got to chat with him. Here are some excerpts of our conversation where Thapaliya talks about his works, interests and other interesting topics.
- When did you come to the United States? Where do you live now?
It will be 3 years in December 2015. At the moment, I live in Chicago with my mom and younger sister.
- Could you tell our readers what world records you hold?
I hold world records such as- Reciting the US States the fastest in the world and with capitals; memorizing capitals of 215 countries and territories. I chose the platform of US based world record site- ‘RecordSetter’ for my world records.
- When did you make those world records?
In March 2011. I was a petite kid then.
- What were you doing when you were in Nepal?
I was a distinction holder in the +2 board exams of Humanities. I was also working as a United Nations Volunteer. I was a freelance writer at a leading national daily. Besides, I was working as Communications Officer for a trekking company and its social organization.
- What major difference did you find between Nepal and USA?
Everyone knows well about differences. Surprisingly, I found a lot of similarities. We tend to generalize things but I have found a lot of American people very warm as much as Nepalese people are. What really keeps me thinking is that here they are very distant from even their immediate families after certain age. I can’t imagine staying away from my family and beloved ones.
- What have you been doing lately?
Apart from taking care of my recently arrived mom, currently I have been working as a tech support analyst at a leading ice manufacturer company of the United States. Before, I was involved as an assistant paralegal at an organization. I also worked as tech support analyst at a leading internet provider. I had also worked as an elementary teacher in South Carolina. Also, every now and then, I give few immigration related suggestions to some Nepalese friends here in the States. Last but not the least, I plan to study Criminal Justice from Fall 2015.
- You are only 21 and have done quite a lot for your age. What inspires you to be this way?
First of all, I still don’t think I have done a lot. May be because I have extremely low self esteem. What keeps me always active is that I am a big paranoid and always think that I have to do everything I want to, before something bad would happen to me. I love being loaded by responsibilities because I was used to them since I lost my father at the age of 11.
- Going back to the topic of world records, do you think that in context of Nepal, world record holders and their feats are recognized in the way they deserve to be?
That’s a good question. I think world record holders are the most underrated and/or neglected international achievers in Nepal. We struggle from the right first step of making a world record- from getting cold reactions for the required media coverage, to the unwillingness of families to support our work. I would rather not even talk about the issue of government recognition and such.
- Why do you think world records do not get the recognition they need or deserve?
Well, simply because the field of world record has no glamor value or any sensationalism unless it’s something done by an already established public figure or you have nature’s blessing like the shortest height. May be some world record holders from Nepal might disagree with me but that’s okay. It’s entirely my own perspective.
- You hold multiple world records and have done quite a lot in academic and professional levels. But why are you not often seen in the media?
Again, I believe that anyone hardly has any interest in the subject of world record. I don’t really feel comfortable being around the scene and limelight. I am friendly but can be shy too. I don’t like announcing what I am doing and prefer to lay low.
- How would you link any state of turmoil, like the recent earthquake, with the responsibility of world record holders like you?
Like anyone else’s! I would think of the responsibilities as a Nepalese citizen and a human being.
- How did the earthquake affect you and your family, if it did at all?
A lot! I lost some of my very close relatives who always loved me since the time I remember. I still somewhat have a feeling that when I visit them in my village in Nuwakot, they will be there to welcome me.
- As a multiple world record holder and person with great sense of social responsibility, how did you try to help the earthquake victims?
I financially and emotionally supported my friends who were actively involved in running here and there around some affected districts to help the victims. I also got a few things of my affected families taken care of. As soon as all this happened, I got terminated from my last employment. So, I had to gather all the courage to cope with the crisis of my country and my personal situation as well. You would also see me calm down my mom and other family members. I, in my wildest dreams, would never want to have a recap of those moments.
- What are other things you are interested in?
In a normal conversation, I might sound very geeky but I am a great movie buff; I especially love watching Bollywood and Nepalese films. I can impress anyone with my knowledge on these movies industries. I also like singing.
- Talking about your academic career, where is it heading to?
I will be honest! Due to my professional commitments and some other issues, I have had break on it. I don’t even regret much about it because I have plenty of age. I am now planning on continuing my higher studies. I will be pursuing Criminal Justice major.
- What message do you have for young Nepalese people with unique talents?
I am not best at giving out messages. What I would like to say is- We all are unique and talented. Always listen to your elders’ advices but follow your heart, without any arrogance involved. Don’t feel odd or weird about yourself if you are going through an unconventional path. We all need to leave this planet one day, so let’s be tolerant towards one another.
- May we expect some more world records from you?
Oh I don’t think so. I strive to do different things in my life at different stages. Now my priorities will be more learning, humanitarian works, travel and may be a relationship.
Follow him on Facebook –
https://www.facebook.com/nikeshthapaliya.page?__mref=message_bubble