Nepali art, language and literature discussed at Himvat Conclave

KATHMANDU, July 14: Scholars from within the country and outside discussed various facets of art, literature, culture and civilization on Saturday on the second day of the Himvatkhanda Art and Literature Conclave.

The three-day conclave is organized by Madan Bhandari Art and Literature Academy commemorating the 205th birth anniversary of Nepali language pioneer poet Bhanubhakta Acharya.

On the occasion, artist Thakur Prasad Mainali presented a working paper entitled “Expanding Space of Nepali Art and Culture and Future Direction”. He highlighted the salient features of Nepali iconography and its influence even in China.

Dean of Sikkim University of India, Dr Kabita Lama made a presentation on “Bhanubhakta in the Context of Linguistic World Heitage” and suggested digitalizing the Ramayana authored by the pioneer poet Bhanubhakta.

Prof Dr Madhav Prasad Pokharel presented a working paper on “Origin of the Language of the Himvatkhanda: Present Importance and Status of Nepali Language”. He expressed his concern over the growing tendency of giving undue importance to English language while neglecting the Nepali language.

Prof Dr Jeevendra Dev Giri, speaking on the topic “Literary Situation of Nepali Language and Journey towards Prosperity”, said that development of all the mother languages would contribute to the prosperity and richness of language heritage of the country.

Academicians Bishnu Prabhat, Laxman Neupane (Myanmar), Prof Dr Bratraj Acharya and Dr Jagman Acharya presented their critique on the working papers, respectively.

At the event, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Pradeep Kumar Gyawali wished for the success of the conclave, insisting on the need of integrating the art and literature of the region. He was of the view of linking the art and literature for the causes of national prosperity.

A multi-linguistic poetry symposium and a humour and satire evening have been scheduled for today itself. Literati will visit the Chandragiri Sunday to attend field-based creation session and the closing ceremony. The conclave was inaugurated by Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli on Friday. RSS