Subash Singh Parajuli
Budo Samaya (Old Time) is a well-crafted poetry collection that comprises of 54 poems dealing with diverse issues and problems by a well-known poet Baburam Shrestha. The collection has been published by BN Books. The anthology plunges into the exotic realms of the past time and quarks how arrows of time and mismanagement can bang the possibilities into unprecedented circumstances. Most of his poems are grounded on the irony of time. The verses deal with the way time flies and take about our past subjectively. One of the most significant and wisely foregrounded subjects is human sensibility of the past that enslaved all of us. Each poem explores the phenomenon based on our social structure and the laws that govern it. They also point out such a tardy nature in every place. When time flogs from daily chores, a person is subjects to lament on time.
One of the remarkable aspects of Budo Samaya is its ability to transcend societal and cultural boundaries and reflection on the past. The themes explored in the book —such as the lamentation of dreams, the importance of perseverance, the satirical perspective on social issues and the significance of personal legends—resonate universally. His poems reflect materialistic practices, political turmoil, the devastation of natural resources, monetization of values and beliefs, identity crisis, poor governing systems and their impact on today’s society.
The notions and ideology discussed in this book are so thought-provoking that anyone with the slightest interest in poetry can plunge into self-realization about past misdeeds and the puzzling nature of our universe. This is a book that has captured the hearts and minds of readers with its beautifully woven narrative, profound insights, and timeless wisdom. It is no wonder that this anthology continues to inspire and resonate with people from all walks of life. The narrative unfolds like a fable, filled with symbolism and allegorical elements that invite us to contemplate on life’s deeper meanings. The poems are infused with spirituality urging us to listen to our hearts, follow our intuition, and connect with the universe’s grand design as per the flaw of time. There are no complicated jargon or clichés and every juncture is explained simply and clearly. Every verse becomes so evasive that it drags one to ponder about the current situation of the state and it fascinates, amazes and motivates one to meditate on it.
With exciting images, dialectical narrative, elusive usages of metaphors, novelty of expressions and profound imagination, the poet brings us closer to the ultimate secrets at the very heart of the originality of our lives. Old times, characterized by traditional values and simpler ways of life, have often been romanticized by people as a time when things were better. However, this view is often based on a selective and idealized view of history. In reality, old times were not necessarily better than the present but the morality crisis in people based on social-cultural existence in old times offers numerous advantages and improvements to run the cycle of living in this modernity.
The poet laments with his soulful emotions and transcendental verses over the modern world that is characterized by unprecedented level of technological advancement that has transformed virtually every aspect of our lives. The Internet and the social media have made it possible for people to connect from all corners of the earth, while medical advancements have led to longer and healthier lives but none of these things apply to reform the baseless structure of civilization. In old times, social and cultural norms and traditions often dictated people’s lives, limiting their freedom and opportunities. Women, in particular, were often restricted in their roles and opportunities, and many minorities faced discrimination and segregation. Today, however, we have made significant strides in promoting equality and freedom, and people have more opportunities to pursue their dreams and aspirations, regardless of their gender, race, or social status. However, we have mostly lost the essence of humanity and personal identity. These ideas have been beautifully accommodated in his poem.
Poet Shrestha’s poems invite readers to reflect on their past situations and desires, urging them to question societal expectations and embrace their true purpose. Our immediate past was a time of political upheaval, social unrest, and cultural revolution that left an indelible mark on our society and this face had been depicted in his book. Many poems encourage us to embark on our quests, to listen to the whispers of our hearts, and to have the courage to pursue our dreams, no matter how daunting they are, and how they relate to our past actions. Some of the poems ‘ Kathmanduharu’, ‘ Sharaharu le Nileko Manche’, Sashak’, Euta Manche’, Mero Desh’,’ Achel’, Simananharu’, Budo Samaya’ are the most vibrant and eloquent expressions relating to the current situation that exists in every aspect of time.
Overall, the current times may seem more fascinating for some, while old times may seem appealing to others. Nevertheless, the reality is that the modern world offers numerous advantages and improvements over the past. Technological advancements, greater freedom and equality, and greater convenience and comfort are just a few of the benefits that we enjoy today. While it is important to cherish and learn from our past, we must also embrace the present and work towards a better future.
