Discussion held on 'Bakhan'

By Our Correspondent,Lumbini, Dec. 29: A discussion on the book Bakhan, a narrative based on the biography of Bakhan Singh Gurung, written by journalist Basanta Parajuli, was held in Butwal.

The discussion on the book took place between the author and readers in Butwal. 

Speaking at the programme, author Parajuli said that the book presents, in an engaging manner, the life story of Bakhan Singh Gurung along with the development of settlements in Chitwan, the beginning of the cooperative movement, and Nepal’s democratic movement.

Parajuli, who is also the president of the Chitwan chapter of the Federation of Nepali Journalists, said that the book portrays Bakhan Singh Gurung’s rugged journey from a soldier to a minister, including family separation and political conflicts, in the form of a narrative.

According to Parajuli, the book is not limited to Bakhan Singh’s story alone; it also incorporates the geographical, cultural, political, economic, and social dimensions of that period. 

He added that major political events from 2007 to 2040 BS have been covered with Bakhan Singh at the centre.

The book vividly depicts the settlement development of Chitwan, the establishment of Chitwan National Park, hunting activities carried out there, the lifestyle of the Tharu community, and the lives of Tharus who survived while battling malaria.

Responding to questions raised by readers, author Parajuli said that the book also mentions the death of King Mahendra, animals found in the national park, and interesting anecdotes related to them.