KATHMANDU: Volleyball coach Kumar Rai, who arrived in Rukum in 2019 to conduct volleyball training, discovered a promising talent – Pragati Nath. Pragati, the niece (uncle’s daughter) of former New Diamond Club captain and assistant coach Lalita Nath, has been balancing both academics and volleyball since childhood.

A setter by position, Pragati is a regular player for New Diamond Sports Club and has also earned a spot on Nepal’s national team. Nepal News caught up with her for a quick round of seven questions:

Which book do you like the most?

The epic poem ‘Muna Madan’ by the poet laureate Laxmi Prasad Devkota.

When do you usually read?

I prefer reading from 5 to 7 in the morning. However, I often end up reading between 8 and 9 in the evening. Reading before bed helps me sleep better.

Do you carry any book while traveling?

No particular book. Since I’m a student, I usually carry my course books in my bag.

Your favorite character?

‘Nanithanku’, from the novel ‘Ek Chihaan’ by Hridaya Chandra Singh Pradhan, is my favorite character.

What’s the difference between reading and not reading books?

Books are not just a source of knowledge—they shape how we think, how we see the world, and help sharpen our minds. Without the habit of reading, we miss out on this vast reservoir of wisdom.

How many books have you collected?

I can’t give an exact number. Most of them are course-related books.

If you were to write a book, what would it be about?

I’d like to write about my life journey.