A book titled Nepalmandala (Bishwa Sampada Lokamala), authored by Bhishma Banskota, a renowned archaeology scholar, was officially launched in Lalitpur on Friday.
The book’s unveiling was conducted by a distinguished panel, including Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Badri Prasad Pandey; Ministry Secretary Dr. Ganesh Prasad Pandeya; Historian Dinesh Raj Panta; Chief of Lalitpur District Coordination Committee Rhishidev Phuyal; poet Nawaraj Lamsal; cultural expert Dr. Ramesh Dhungel; Joint Secretary Dr. Suresh Suras Shrestha; and the author himself.
Speaking at the event, Minister Pandey highlighted the book’s significance in preserving Nepal’s rich history and culture. He emphasized its potential to educate the public about cultural heritage and inspire the younger generation to delve into Nepal’s historical and cultural narrative. He added that the book would contribute to revitalizing Nepal’s cultural identity.
Dr. Panta praised the book as a pioneering effort in documenting Nepal’s history and culture through a folklore-inspired approach. He noted that while the book is written in verse, its prose sections clarify complex terms and terminologies, making it accessible to readers.
Other speakers, including Dr. Lamsal and Dr. Shrestha, also shared their insights on the book, while the author detailed the process of its creation. According to Banskota, he began writing the book in 2019 and completed it in 2024.
The 312-page book, priced at Rs. 950, is divided into four chapters. It encompasses a wide range of topics, including Nepal’s ancient history, its rulers and their contributions, enduring cultural monuments, temples, religious sites, ponds, inscriptions, traditional tools, popular deities, and even smaller but significant landmarks like chowks and Biharas.
Published by Tika Prakash Banskota and printed by Sopan Press Private Limited, Kalikasthan, Kathmandu, the book offers an in-depth exploration of Nepal’s cultural legacy.
