When I Write, I Speak My Truth Freely
Kathmandu, April 10 – Sangita Swechchha is a Nepalese author, poet, and academician residing in England. Renowned for her extensive body of work encompassing novels, short tales, and verse, she has released multiple publications such as her inaugural novel ‘Pakhalieko Siundo’ from 1993, penned when she was just eighteen years old.
Her latest projects encompass 'The Himalayan Sunrise: Discovering Nepal’s Literary Landscape' (2021) along with 'An Insight into My Nation: A Collection of Global Short Tales' (2021). These endeavors highlight her dedication to connecting Nepalese literary arts with an international readership.
During this discussion with The Post’s Aarya Chand, Swechcha shares insights into her literary path and her encounters within Nepali literature.
Since your early days, you have been composing pieces using the pseudonym 'Sangita Swechcha.' What ignited your interest in creative writing, and what was the inspiration behind selecting this particular pen name?
I selected the pseudonym 'Swechcha,' which means 'freedom' or 'personal choice' in Nepali, to embody my commitment to creativity and autonomy. Using this name also helps distinguish myself, as 'Sangita Shrestha' is quite prevalent, thus providing me with a distinct presence within the realm of literature.
My innate shyness combined with my urge to express myself ignited my love for creative writing. During childhood, I discovered it was simpler for me to articulate my ideas and sentiments via written words instead of spoken ones. The natural scenery surrounding my residence greatly influenced this inspiration as well. Through writing, I learned how to understand my emotions, scrutinize the environment around me, and communicate without restraint. Gradually, this evolved into a profound enthusiasm and an integral aspect of who I am.
In what ways has residing in England shaped your writing style contrasted with your earlier work when you were exclusively located in Nepal?
Residing in England has increased my interaction with various cultures, languages, and distinct viewpoints, which inevitably shapes my writing. The rich mix of backgrounds here expands my insight into personal stories, enabling me to integrate a wider range of subjects and angles into what I create.
In comparison to my time in Nepal, where my environment, customs, and life events heavily influenced my work, residing in England has introduced fresh dimensions to my narrative style. This experience has encouraged me to explore deeper into topics such as identity, movement between places, and feeling at home. Moreover, distancing myself from Nepal has actually intensified my bond with my origins, heightening my awareness of my cultural background and motivating me to safeguard and convey this legacy through my writings.
Recently, you released a collection of short stories titled 'Rose's Odyssey,' which is an English translation of 'Gulafsangako Prem.' Can you share what inspired this work?
The novel "Gulafsangako Prem" emerged from a desire to delve into human feelings, connections, and cultural heritage. These narratives explore themes such as migration, longing, societal pressures, and individual hardships, mirroring the experiences of Nepalese individuals both within Nepal and overseas. Several tales center around Nepalese emigrants—depicting their difficulties, aspirations, and emotional journeys—while others take place in Nepal itself, illustrating daily routines and traditional customs. Additionally, some stories feature characters with varied origins who intersect with Nepalese lives through different avenues.
The concept for the book developed slowly, as several of my previous tales were penned and released before new ones kept being added incrementally. Initially issued in Nepali in 2019 with the title 'Gulafsangako Prem,' this anthology was subsequently rendered into English by Jayant Sharma and retitled 'Rose's Odyssey.' The compilation comprises twenty narratives situated across three locales: Nepal, Australia, and the UK.
As the creator of Book Hill International, can you outline your vision for advancing Nepalese literature and authors globally, and could you share some of the obstacles or chances you've come across during this publishing venture up until now?
Founded in the United Kingdom, Book Hill International seeks to enhance the worldwide recognition of Nepali literature. Building on the legacy of Book Hill, a prominent publishing house in Nepal, we expand our reach internationally while maintaining a solid base. This allows us to forge new paths for global interaction and connection.
From our inception, we’ve strived to amplify Nepali voices to broader listenership. Our magazine ‘The Himalayan Sunrise’ showcased literature originating from Nepal. Additionally, the anthology ‘A Glimpse into My Country,’ which includes contributions from authors across seven nations, was incorporated into the curriculum at the University of California, Irvine during the academic years 2023–2024. I myself am known through my compilation titled ‘Rose’s Odyssey.’ Despite facing hurdles related to exposure, dissemination, and translation, these endeavors have contributed significantly towards providing room for an array of distinct narratives rooted in Nepal. This year, several fresh releases are scheduled in the United Kingdom, alongside continued backing of works emanating directly from Nepal. The journey remains active as we commit ourselves to further developing this initiative progressively over time.
As the Guest Editor for GLLI’s Nepali Literature Month, what difficulties and prospects do you identify regarding international recognition of Nepali literature?
Nepalese literature has great promise on the world platform, yet acknowledgment does not happen spontaneously—it demands persistent endeavor. A key hurdle lies in numerous chances remaining untapped, necessitating more drive from authors, translators, publishers, and supporters. Merely waiting for global acclaim is insufficient; we should take active steps to present our creations to broader viewerships.
As the Guest Editor for GLLI's Nepali Literature Month, I observed that once Nepali literature finds the appropriate channels, it garners genuine appreciation. The challenge lies not with the material itself but rather with limited accessibility and visibility. Key strategies include translation, intercultural cooperation, and engagement in worldwide literary discussions. Through concerted and ongoing efforts, Nepali literature has the potential to secure a more prominent position within the broader international literary scene.
Which distinctive features of Nepalese literature do you wish for global audiences to value more?
Nepalese literature stands out due to its extensive linguistic variety, deep ties to nature and spiritual themes, and changing stories concerning migration and personal identity. It merges elements of folktales, myths, and spoken heritage with contemporary narrative techniques, resulting in a unique literary expression. Based on my observations, I've noticed that global audiences find value in the unpolished yet genuine quality of Nepalese poetic works.
Even so, Nepali literature frequently gets sidelined and bundled into the larger category of South Asian literature, thereby missing out on highlighting its distinctive cultural nuances. Although there are commonalities across regions, Nepali narratives possess their own special essence that deserves acknowledgment. My wish is for increased translation initiatives and worldwide literary partnerships to help a wider audience recognize the amalgamation of heritage and modernity present in Nepali writing.
What guidance could you offer to budding Nepali authors?
I believe the learning process for a writer never ends, and there are always new avenues to explore. For aspiring Nepali writers aiming to reach a global audience, it's essential to invest in translation, continuously refine one's craft through consistent writing, and stay curious about global literary trends. Engaging with different literary traditions, reading widely, and participating in literary communities all play a vital role in a writer's growth. Though the journey may be challenging, every meaningful journey begins with a few determined steps.
Sangita Swechcha's five recommended books
Americanah
Author: Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Publisher: Alfred A Knopf
Year: 2013
This book explores cultural change and the conflict between individual identity and social norms as depicted by Adichie.
A Thousand Splendid Suns
Author: Khaled Hosseini
Publisher: Riverhead Books
Year: 2007
The narrative revolves around Mariam and Laila, two females whose paths cross as they encounter the challenges of living in conflict-ravaged Afghanistan.
The tome of Structure and Void
Author: Ruth Ozeki
Publisher: Viking
Year: 2021
This intricately crafted novel explores themes of loss, resilience, and the bond between individuals and their physical surroundings.
Pagal Basti
Author: Sarubhakta
Publisher: Sajha Prakashan
Year: 1991
Sarubhakta guides us through a psychological exploration focused on the connection between a stubborn woman and a spiritually inclined man.
Ular
Author: Nayanraj Pandey
Publisher: Tanneri Prakashan
Year: 1998
This fictional narrative delves into the challenges faced by an impoverished rickshaw driver in rural Nepal, highlighting the profound social disparities within the community.