‘Pragya Nepali Balgeet’ published

The Nepal Academy has unveiled a new contribution to Nepali children’s literature with the publication of ‘Pragya Nepali Balgeet’, a 422-page anthology edited by writer and journalist Gopi Krishna Dhungana.  

The book is divided into three chapters, each showcasing a unique aspect of Nepali children’s songs (balgeet in Nepali). The first chapter offers a comprehensive 32-page critique titled ‘Principles, Traditions, and Trends of Nepali children song’, exploring the theoretical and historical evolution of the genre. The second chapter features two songs each by 159 children’s songwriters, with a brief introduction of each contributor. The third chapter presents 56 songs archived in Radio Nepal’s Sound Museum.  

Prominent contributors include luminaries such as Dinesh Adhikari, Prof Dr Krishnahari Baral, Dr Devi Nepal, and many others. The work is priced at Rs 600 and offers insights into themes of national identity, social issues, and religious philosophy.  

Chancellor Bhupal Rai highlighted the book’s importance in nurturing children’s interest in Nepali literature. Vice-chancellor Bimal Krishna Niwa remarked that the songs would appeal to children and serve as a tool for imparting values and lessons. Editor Dhungana emphasized the lack of institutional collections of children’s songs and expressed hope that the book would meet the cultural and literary needs of the country’s youth.  

This comprehensive collection, combining theoretical insights and a treasure trove of songs, aims to enrich the field of Nepali children’s literature and serve as a resource for fostering creativity and learning among young minds.