Narayan Dhakal Unveils Sixth Novel Jagajjanani Usko Aamaako Naam Hoina at Kathmandu Ceremony

Kathmandu: Veteran Nepali writer Narayan Dhakal has launched his sixth novel, Jagajjanani Usko Aamaako Naam Hoina, at a ceremony held at the R-Sala hall of Nepalaya Publications in Kalikasthan on Saturday.

The book was formally unveiled after the author presented copies to his grandchildren, Riti Dhakal and Riwaj Dhakal, in a gesture that added a personal note to the event.

Addressing the gathering, Dhakal reflected on his five-decade literary career, recalling his early struggles as a teenage writer. He shared that an unpublished detective novel he had once submitted to a publisher prompted him to immerse himself deeply in reading world literature. “I began reading obsessively and never stopped,” he said, describing how the habit shaped his development as a writer.

Dhakal also spoke about the varied experiences that have influenced his writing, including involvement in student and teachers’ movements, journalism, imprisonment and parliamentary politics. He noted that his engagement in ideological and underground communist activities had further informed his perspective. He described the new novel as a “dream–nightmare statement against betrayal”, blending emotional narrative with political and social reflection.

Editor Bimal Acharya said the manuscript was both challenging and compelling, describing Dhakal as a self-critical yet confident writer. He added that the novel would hold a significant place in Nepali literary history.

Dhakal’s literary journey began with the publication of his first short story in 1973 (2030 BS). Over 52 years, he has produced six novels, seven short story collections, three essay collections, two children’s books and a poetry collection.

According to the publisher, the 286-page book is priced at Rs 675 and is available at bookshops nationwide as well as online, including through Thuprai.com and Amazon.