This line, generally, may seem pessimistic but this is the fact – the truth. Every man, when he reaches a certain old age, is tired of life. [break]
Though outwardly he may say otherwise, he likes death more than life. In old age, one is actually afraid of life; afraid that one might live longer than he wishes and his inner yearning is death.
You might say it is even unconscious – the liking for death than life. May be it is the same with everything when you have had your fill or had enough of it.
About Bhandari
Prof Dr DP Bhandari taught at the Central Department of English of Tribhuvan University at Kirtipur, and his teaching career spanned 35 years. He is now retired and often writes articles for English and Nepali national dailies and magazines.
A booklover from his early childhood, he says he reads contemporary literature too, but prefers the classics and spiritual books by Osho.
As told to Ujjwala Maharjan
Kamayani
By Jaya Shankar Prasad
This is a Hindi epic. The poetry in this book is extraordinary. The writer has linked the past with the present with the mythological characters from Vedas in a unique way. This book basically sums up the essence of the Indian sub-continental culture.
Meghdoot
By Kalidas
I find the highest state of literary expression in Meghdoot by Kalidas. This classic, originally written in Sanskrit centuries ago, still remains like epitome of great poetry. It is still infinitely greater than most commonplace writing.
Though you can read Meghdoot in other languages now, the translation can never be the same. Especially, poetry gets lost in translation.
The tragedy of two lovers separated due to some circumstances is presented in such a way that it easily appeals to you.
Even Rabindranath Tagore expressed his awe and admiration after reading Meghdoot. In his book, he wonders when and how the Kavi Kulguru (The Master of Poets) Kalidas was able to create such amazing work as Meghdoot.
King Lear
By William Shakespeare
Many of you might know the story of King Lear. I love Shakespeare and especially his tragedies. King Lear definitely is one of his best. Shakespeare has written this in a very simple way, and his expression is powerful, as always.
The story of greed and genuine love is very beautiful. The tragic dimension, artistic expression and the profound philosophy in this drama are great.
Shakuntal
By Laxmi Prasad Devkota
The very first line of the epic is so appealing; you’re in admiration of Devkota’s writing from the beginning. I find the language of Shakuntal very beautiful and pleasant.
Devkota is undoubtedly the best literary talent of Nepal, and his brilliance can be seen in this poetic epic.
Based somewhat on Kalidas’s Sanskrit epic Shakuntala, Devkota takes his version to a different level.
A tragedy again, this also tells the story of two lovers who are separated but never stop loving each other.
The Grass Grows by Itself
By Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh
I am very influenced by Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh’s philosophies. He opposes dead traditions and gives spirituality a fresh perspective. This particular book can be summed up in a Japanese Haiku that is included in the book. It goes something like “Sitting, silently, doing nothing / Spring comes and the grass grows by itself.”
I like the idea that it suggests – everything around us and in our lives happens naturally. Be yourself; don’t try too hard to be someone who is not you, and things will work out naturally.
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