Author and journalist Vijaya Chalise’s new novel titled Yugsandhi has been released during a program held in Kathmandu on Tuesday. The novel explores the ideological conflict of the Vedic era between the sages Vasishtha and Vishvamitra. It delves into various tensions, including those between Aryan and non-Aryan races, men and women, and the supporters of blood purity versus those in favor of blood amalgamation.
Critic Gopi Mainali, speaking at the event, noted that Yugsandhi challenges the classical approach to writing mythological fiction by connecting it to modern societal structures. The novel doesn’t just tell a story of victory but also explores defeat, revealing ethnic and class-based discrimination in ancient times, he added.
Prof. Dr. Rishiram Pokharel, Nepal’s first PhD holder in Vedic studies, praised Chalise’s work, calling it a valuable contribution to Nepali literature, especially in a time when few books tackle Vedic themes.
Similarly, critic Dr. Gyanu Pandey hailed the novel as a powerful work, capable of provoking serious questions and stimulating vivid imaginations beyond the themes it directly addresses.
Author Vijaya Chalise shared that the novel is based on conclusions drawn from his study of Vedic conflicts. Other attendees, including critics Yubaraj Mainali and Gokarneshwor Municipality Mayor Deepak Risal, also extended their best wishes to the author.
The book, published by Parichaya Publications, is priced at Rs. 550 and consists of 38 chapters. Vijaya Chalise, a well-known figure in mass media and journalism, is also the author of novels, story collections, children’s literature, and travel essays. He previously served as the executive chairman of Gorkhapatra Corporation and editor-in-chief of Gorkhapatra Daily.
