Travel writer Bhawani Khatiwada’s fourth travelogue Pranam Sagarmatha was launched at Sarwanam Theatre in Kalikasthan, Kathmandu, during a special event attended by writers, travel authors, and critics.
The book was jointly released by travel writers Ghanshyam Rajkarnikar and Ilya Bhattarai, poet Ashesh Malla, Page Turner Chair Bhuvanhari Sigdel, critics Dr. Ashok Thapa and Mahesh Paudyal, and the author.
Ilya Bhattarai said the book beautifully presents the emotions of the high Himalayas, unlike the dry facts found elsewhere. Mahesh Paudyal praised the book for blending personal feelings and vivid storytelling, especially highlighting the achievement of a Nepali woman traveling alone in such challenging terrain. Dr. Ashok Thapa moderated the discussion.
Sarwanam Theatre also performed a short play based on parts of the book, showing the difficult weather, risks, and lives of porters in the Himalayas.
Khatiwada said writing is her spiritual practice and that she now dedicates her life to literature.
Published by Page Turner, her earlier books include Ghaambhanda Pahile, Charkhola ko Aangani Ma, and Aakash Odheko Dolpo.
At the event, NPR 455,356 was handed over to the daughter of poet Govindraj Binodi, who is battling cancer.
