KATHMANDU, Feb 23: Nepali literary figure Narayan Dhakal’s sixth novel, Jagajjanani Usko Aamaako Naam Hoina, has been officially launched in Kathmandu. The book was unveiled on Saturday at the R-Sala hall of Nepalaya Publications.
The novel was formally launched after Dhakal presented copies of the book as gifts to his grandchildren, Riti Dhakal and Riwaj Dhakal, adding a personal touch to the ceremony.
Speaking at the launch, Dhakal reflected on his five-decade-long literary journey, sharing memories of his early struggles as a young writer. He recalled attempting to publish a spy novel during his teenage years, which was rejected. That rejection, however, pushed him deeper into reading. Over time, he developed an intense reading habit, exploring works of world-renowned authors.
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“I started reading obsessively and never stopped. That habit continues,” Dhakal said. He shared how he often read secretly on buses, in toilets, at colleges, and even at home, saying those quiet moments gradually shaped him as a writer.
Dhakal also spoke about his diverse life experiences, including involvement in student and teacher movements, journalism, imprisonment, and parliamentary politics. He described his life as being shaped by multiple social and ideological struggles, including his association with underground communist political activities.
The author said he views literature not only as emotional expression but also as a medium to reflect politics, history, economics, and social realities. He described Jagajjanani Usko Aamaako Naam Hoina as a “dream–nightmare statement against betrayal.”
Editor Bimal Acharya said the manuscript both challenged and impressed him. He described Dhakal as a writer who is highly self-critical yet deeply confident in his craft, adding that the novel will remain an important work in Nepali literary history.
Dhakal’s literary career spans more than 52 years since his first story was published in 2030 BS. He has published six novels, seven story collections, three essay collections, two children’s story books, and one poetry collection.
“From the novel journey that began with Narayan Wagle, we have now reached Narayan Dhakal,” said Nepalaya team leader Kiran Krishna Shrestha. He added that the publication house plans to publish works of 75 new writers in the 21st century as part of its 21-year publishing journey.
The 286-page book is priced at Rs 675 and is available at bookstores across the country as well as online platforms, including Thuprai.com and Amazon.
