Sanman Thapa

A Fight for a Cup of Chai

Watch: A Fight for a Cup of Chai – Official Book Trailer

For Educators: Download the Classroom Guide PDF

A Memoir of Sacrifice, Solidarity, and...

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Sanman Thapa

Sanman Thapa is a Nepali-American author and National Certified School Counselor (NCSC) dedicated to empowering youth, building inclusive spaces, and amplifying underrepresented voices. A seasoned educator fluent in English and Nepali, he specializes in guiding students through academic challenges, social-emotional development, and cultural transitions.

His debut memoir, A Fight for a Cup of Chai, draws from his lived experiences as a factory...

A Fight for a Cup of Chai

A Journey Through Labor, Loss, and Hope

Watch: A Fight for a Cup of Chai – Official Book Trailer

For Educators: Download the Classroom Guide PDF

A Memoir of Sacrifice, Solidarity, and the Quiet Power of Resistance

What began as a simple request for a tea break turned into a battle for dignity in the factories of 1990s Kathmandu.

Sanman Thapa, a college student by night and factory...

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Praise

A Fight for a Cup of Chai is a deeply moving and eye-opening memoir about resilience, determination, and the fight for dignity...a rare glimpse into Nepal’s labor movement and the struggles of those who dared to demand more. I was completely absorbed in his story—... This is the kind of book that sticks with you long after you turn the last page.

– Abigail L.

Ever think a simple cup of chai could represent a whole revolution? Well, buckle up, because A Fight for a Cup of Chai is about more than just tea—it’s about guts, grit, and the fight for basic human rights... It’s raw, it’s real, and it makes you appreciate every sip of tea you’ve ever had. If you love underdog stories that make you want to stand up and cheer, this one’s for you. ☕✊📖

– Sue

This book is a touching memoir...The author tells a deeply human story of struggle, solidarity, and perseverance. His storytelling ability captures the harsh realities of factory life in that place and time. He experienced long hours and low wages which fed his desire for dignity and justice.
I highly recommend this book if you are looking to understand the relationship of history and resilience in the universal fight for human rights.

– Donna R

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Other Writing

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Author’s Note

When I published my debut memoir A Fight for a Cup of Chai, I knew the road ahead wouldn’t be easy—but I didn’t expect what came next. Within days of celebrating one of the most meaningful achievements of my life, I was flooded with messages that weren’t truly about my book. They were about buying back the spotlight I had already earned.

This piece isn’t just about calling out scams. It’s about reclaiming power. It’s about exposing a pattern that preys on the very vulnerability...

Beyond the Shelf: What I Learned as a First-Time Self-Published Author

By Sanman Thapa

When I first set out to write A Fight for a Cup of Chai, I thought the hardest part would be telling the story—reliving the pain, shaping the truth, and honoring the lives that crossed mine in the factories of Kathmandu. And while writing was certainly emotional, it turned out to be the most grounded part of the journey. Everything that came after—the publishing, the promoting, the endless pitching and...

As my family, friends, and I eagerly anticipated our journey from the San Juan Airport terminal to the Vieques, a small island off mainland Puerto Rico, an older woman approached me, speaking in her native tongue asking how to get to her designated terminal. However, my confusion was evident, and I couldn't respond. Sensing my struggle, a Spanish-speaking friend intervened in to help and gave her the directions. Despite our efforts, the woman gave me a disgusted look, waved her hands, and...

Blog

May 18, 2025

Prey: The Post Publication Minefield: Scams, Solicitors, and the Hope They Feed On

Author’s Note

When I published my debut memoir A Fight for a Cup of Chai, I knew the road ahead wouldn’t be easy—but I didn’t expect what came next. Within days of celebrating one of the most meaningful achievements of my life, I was flooded with messages that weren’t truly about my book. They were about buying back the spotlight I had already earned.

This piece isn’t just about calling out scams. It’s about reclaiming power. It’s about exposing a pattern that preys on the very vulnerability...

March 29, 2025

The Power of Story Telling: You Matter and Your Story Matters

A Fight for a Cup of Chai: A Journey Through Labor, Loss, and Hope

By Sanman Thapa | March, 29, 2025 | 11:00 am

Have you ever felt a quiet tug—that ticking urge to share your story with the world—only to be silenced by a voice that says, Who would care?

You’re not alone. I was one of those people, too.

Reaching middle age brought with it a wave of self-reflection and, with it, a deep desire to finally own my story. I’ve always loved to write. While digging through the attic one day, I stumbled...