Prabesh Pandit
The novel Raipali Bhanjyang by agriculture graduate Sagar Khadka is a remarkable and thought-provoking piece of writing. It is a moving examination of love, friendship, child psychology, and the pride of a retired soldier, all set against the backdrop of rural Nepal, captivating the readers. The central plot revolves around the endearing love story of childhood friends, Buddhi and Kushum, as they navigate life’s obstacles. With deft handling of the intricacies of their developing connection, Khadka sensitively depicts their psychological and emotional journey.
Raipali Bhanjyang’s relatability is one of its main features; the characters (Mukhiya, Mukhini, Buddhi, Kushum, Dhurbe, Bhaktay, and Bhunibahun) reflect the aspirations, loves, and social pressures common in Nepali society. Their separate tales are entwined with broader themes of friendship, loyalty, and rural living.
Khadka writes in an easy-to-read yet powerful manner that lets the feelings and experiences of the characters shine through. The writing is fluid and captures both the subtleties of interpersonal interactions and the colorful ambiance of Lamjung, Nepal. The reading experience is enhanced by the author’s attention to detail and evocative descriptions, which take readers to the streets, rodhighar, and other notable locations in the village.
The relationships between characters like Mukhiya and Bhaktay and Buddhi and Dhurbe serve as examples of how important support networks are for both personal development and making decisions. Raipali Bhanjyang discusses wider social concerns and the difficulties encountered by women in rural areas, even though the main focus of the work is on the lives of Mukhiya and Buddhi. This is especially evident in the portrayal of Bhunibahun, a malevolent figure.
In conclusion, Raipali Bhanjyang is a beautifully crafted novel that captures the essence of a soldier’s lament, young love, friendship, school politics, and the dynamics of human life events. Sagar Khadka’s storytelling prowess, combined with relatable characters and vivid descriptions of Lamjung, makes it a delightful and engaging read.
