Kathmandu: Raghu Aditya, an animal rights activist, has released a new book titled “Shakahar: Tarkadhar,” which is anticipated to become a significant work in the field of animal rights. The book, focusing on justifications for vegetarianism and veganism, was launched at a ceremony where Aditya shared insights into the challenges he faced during its creation and his motivation for addressing common criticisms of a vegetarian lifestyle.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the book launch was facilitated by journalist Prakash Ajaat, who highlighted the strong, research-based arguments presented by Aditya to counter challenges faced by vegetarians and vegans. The event was unique, with no chief guest, and the book was jointly launched by five women: Pramada Shah, Manju Shree Sthapit, Dr. Ayasha Upreti, Eva Dangol, and Shova Bhujel.
Aditya explained that the book is divided into five chapters, combining his personal experiences with research-based arguments. He shared how, since choosing to refrain from consuming meat at the age of eight, he has often faced questions from relatives and friends about his dietary choices. The book serves as his response to these questions and an advocacy for animal rights.
Aditya expressed gratitude to his sister, Mona Shrestha Aditya, for her support. Pramada Shah praised the book for its compelling arguments grounded in ethics and animal rights. The Nepal Vegetarian Association (NVA) Chairperson, Krishna Gurung, announced the association’s endorsement of the book, calling it a guiding resource in animal rights.
Environment activist Shail Shrestha and other attendees from academia, media, and animal rights circles applauded the book’s potential impact. The speakers acknowledged its potential to become a milestone in the field of animal rights.
Following the launch, Aditya’s mother, Sumitra, expressed pride in her son’s achievements and hopes for his continued advocacy for compassion and justice. His father, Professor Anand Aditya, acknowledged the book’s significance for both the family legacy and the field of animal rights.
The 252-page book, priced at Rs. 650, includes pictorial presentations and references, offering readers a comprehensive guide on vegetarianism and animal rights advocacy.