Into the Fire: Timely and powerful

To begin, I congratulate Capt. Rameshwar Thapa for his brave and enthusiastic actions, flying through clouds of gunfire during hazardous bombardments. He is a dedicated and committed son of the soil, a brave national hero. Such individuals are rarely born, especially when the nation is in peril.

The people's revolution, which lasted for a decade, erupted sporadically across various remote regions of the Himalayan country. Threats and rising death tolls escalated fear and insecurity across the nation. My own hazardous experiences led me to frequently retreat to my dwelling as Maoists demonstrated even in the heart of Kathmandu. Fear and insecurity were pervasive throughout the country. I retired before negotiations flourished, something I can barely recall due to the toll age has taken on my memory.

Capt. Thapa, the author of Into the Fire, addresses 25 key issues in his work. His contributions are unparalleled, and his unwavering dedication to alleviating the suffering of others reminds me of Henry Dunant, the founder of the Red Cross. Capt. Thapa's selfless service to humanity is truly remarkable, akin to the legacy of Raja Jaya Prithvi Bahadur Singh of Bajhang, a devoted advocate of humanism during the time of Prime Minister Chandra Shumsher Jung Bahadur Rana. Singh, who represented Nepal at the 1933 World Parliament of Religions in Chicago, was a figure dedicated to the cause of humanism. Having read Into the Fire, I found myself transported back to my youth in the peaceful, serene landscapes of the Himalayan motherland, reflecting on my travels across Nepal.

The photographs at the end of the book added a personal touch, energizing me with their striking resemblance between Capt. Thapa and his mother. His family heritage and values have undoubtedly shaped his ability to carry out his tasks with great equanimity and care.

Before concluding, I consulted with my neighbor, retired judge Gauri Bahadur Karki. He quickly responded to my call and, in a heartfelt conversation, explained the chaotic situation in the western district of Jumla, where he had served under the High Court and Supreme Court. He provided clarity on the situation and even shared a book entitled Yuddha Biram: Barta “Bhumigat Rahar Hoina Badhyata” Janayuddha Serofero, published by Malabia Publications. This book, filled with hard truths, was a timely and powerful contribution to the ongoing discussions around the people's war.