The poetry anthology Ilam Bolchha by Dharani Prasad Gautam was officially released in Kathmandu on Saturday. The collection was jointly unveiled by a group of notable writers, including Mohan Sitoula, journalist Bishnu Nisthuri, and former secretary Khemraj Nepal. The collection features 27 short poems written in four distinct metres and three traditional folk tunes,
The event, organized by Ilam Bikas Samaj, brought together speakers who highlighted various facets of Nepali literature, as well as the literary and academic achievements of Gautam, who previously served as the Campus Chief of Mahendra Ratna Multiple Campus and was a Reader at Tribhuvan University.
Ilam Bolchha is Gautam’s seventh published book. His earlier works, mostly focused on literary criticism, include six other books that he has either written or coauthored.
In this latest anthology, Gautam captures the essence and beauty of Ilam, his birthplace, through each of the 27 poems. During the book release, some of these poems were also recited for the audience.
Additionally, both Dharani Prasad Gautam and his wife, Mitra Gautam, were honored by Ilam Bikas Samaj for their contributions to Nepali literature and education.
The event was chaired by Radheshyam Lekali, chairperson of Ilam Bikas Samaj, and also included the exchange of festival greetings among the attendees.
