KATHMANDU, Feb 17: ‘Kabi Shiromani Rachanawali’, a five volume compilation, which includes all the literary works of Kabi Shiromani Lekhnath Paudel is being published by Publication Nepalaya.  Born in Arghaun Archale, a village east of Pokhara, Poet Lekhnath Paudel (1884-1966) is a towering icon of Nepali literature. He was honored with the title Kabi Shiromani. He is known for presenting complex poetry rich in traditional and classical precepts and philosophy in a simple and colloquial style.

The press statement released by Nepalaya said that Nepal’s revered poet, Mahakabi Laxmi Prasad Devkota, praised him as an ‘Academician of Saintly Imagination’. Even half a century after his death, few of his works remained unpublished. These previously unpublished works, as well as a collection of other published works, are presented in the book as a package.

Works representing the evolution of Nepali literature are presented, to be cherished and enjoyed by readers now and in the future, read the press statement. The compilation is edited by Professor Sanat Kumar Wasti. His effort to collect, compile and present all the works by Paudel in a simple chronology is believed to help general readers to explore these works and attract new readers, stated the press statement.

The book is being released on February 19, which coincides with the Poet’s death anniversary. The value added limited edition of ‘Kabi Shiromani Rachanawali’ comes as a set of five hardbound books with a price tag of Rs 6,975.