“Pradeep Gyawali: Freedom of Expression Not at Risk in the State”

Kathmandu – In a recent event organized by the Nagarjun Literary Foundation, the Deputy General Secretary of the Nepal Communist Party (Marxist), Pradeepkumar Gyawali, expressed concerns about the potential threat to press freedom and freedom of expression in the country. Reflecting on the current state of affairs, Gyawali highlighted the importance of upholding democratic values and ensuring a conducive environment for free speech.

During the poetry symposium, Gyawali emphasized the need to safeguard freedom of expression, citing Nepal’s progressive constitutional framework in South Asia as a key tool for fostering prosperity and transformation. He also touched upon the themes of social justice, gender equality, and the creative aspirations of writers in his analysis of contemporary poetry.

Former Foreign Minister Gyawali presented a recitation of his poem titled “Night Without Reflection,” which resonated with the audience, underscoring the plight of the marginalized. His contribution to the literary and political spheres was acknowledged with respect by the organizers, alongside honoring Ram Vinay, the President of the Literary Evening, for his role in promoting literary culture.

Gyawali’s recital included poems such as “I Have Arrived,” “Tharu Diamond,” “Voice of the Bell,” “The Tailor of Jhurma,” “Our Journey,” and “Jumla.” Dr. Hariprasad Silwal praised these works, noting Gyawali’s revolutionary spirit and creativity, even in his later years.

The literary event featured readings by various authors like Namuna Sharma, Gopalkumar Mainali, Nandu Upreti, Bharadwaj Mitra, Anita Lama, Dil Paudel, Yubaraj Nastik, Anuradha Thapa, among many others. Their poems were critically reviewed by Dr. Vinod Manjan. This gathering not only celebrated literature but also provided a platform for emerging and established poets to share their perspectives on societal issues through their art.

Opinion from Ramesh Khatri, representative of Kansai Nepal News: “The event organized by the Nagarjun Literary Foundation served as a significant platform for writers and poets to address crucial social issues through their works. Gyawali’s insights on the importance of maintaining freedom of expression and democratic values resonate strongly in today’s context, reflecting a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the creative community in Nepal.”


Author: MAYA | HARUTO
Posted at: February 2, 2025 3:00 am