‘The Himalayan Heads,’ an anthology of Nepali fiction and non-fiction by notable Nepali writers, is for those who wish to get into contemporary modern Nepali literature. Published by the PEN Nepal Chapter, this book is a collection of works by 24 authors, exploring topics ranging from culture to society to politics. 

The fiction section contains eight stories, translated from Nepali to English, by authors, such as Aswini Koirala, Krishna Bajgai, Ram Kumar Pandey, Sushma Chitrakar and Rupsingh Bhandari. The non-fiction section provides readers with an immersive journey through Nepal’s history, geography, philosophy, travelog, memoirs and research penned by 16 talented and versatile writers. 

Bhisma Upreti’s Aysalkyan Imanalieva; Ghanshyam Rajkarnikar's Lumbini: Birth place of Lord Buddha; Lal Bahadur Bhujel's A cherished Audacious Journey of My life; Sushma Acharya's Turning point of Change; Govinda Giri Prerana's A Home in Kathmandu; and Tanka Upreti's The Era of Nandalal are some of the standout works. They capture the essence of the Himalayas with vivid descriptions and insightful narratives on the ground realities, making this book an invaluable resource for anyone interested in contemporary Nepali literature.

From thrilling tales of long expeditions to encounters with local communities, cultural and language barriers, from insightful love affairs to the doctrine of Buddha in the current scenario, the book offers a multifaceted exploration of the human connection to land and culture.

‘The Himalayan Heads’ excels in its portrayal of the Himalayan civilization, Nepali lifestyle, history, and beliefs in the form of both fiction and reality. All the writers skillfully weave together stories of their own inherited society, and marginalized communities, shedding light on their customs, spirituality, and the struggles they face in the face of modernization. The book encourages readers to appreciate the delicate balance between tradition and progress.

All authors’ passion for the subject matter is palpable, creating an immersive reading experience that transports the readers to the heart of Nepal’s majestic landscape and diverse culture. However, it is worth noting that ‘The Himalayan Heads’ may not be appropriate for those seeking an exhaustive academic study despite having ample historical and cultural context. Most of the creations are primarily focused on the author’s personal experiences and observations. 

Overall, ‘The Himalayan Heads’ comprises fiction and nonfiction works that shed light on multiple issues concerning Nepali society. With its engaging narratives and rich cultural insights, the book leaves a lasting impression on its readers. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast, a lover of nature, or simply curious about the doctrine of Buddha, this book will transport you to the roof of the world and ignite a sense of wonder and appreciation for this awe-inspiring region.

 

The Himalayan Heads

Published by: PEN NEPAL CHAPTER 

Price: Rs 375