Shova Gyawali launches Mandakini, spotlighting women’s voices and social change

KATHMANDU, Feb 14: Acclaimed writer Shova Gyawali on Saturday launched her third story collection, Mandakini, in a ceremony that celebrated the book as a work born of tears, struggle, and hope. Gyawali, who also serves as chairperson of Nepal Republic Media, described the collection as a reflection of lived experiences rather than mere literary imagination.

Speaking at the event, Gyawali said, “Mandakini is not simply the product of pen and words; it emerges from deep human emotions. I come here not only as a writer but as a messenger of untold stories of society. These are real stories connected to the lives of people around us.”

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Tracing her literary journey, Gyawali explained that her first work, Sampurna Akash, expressed the language of dreams, while her second, Sangharsha, gave voice to reality. Mandakini, she said, channels the heartbeat of society. “In this book, I have strung together pain, struggle, and success like a garland of pearls. Every story reflects some aspect of life. For me, writing is not a game of words—it is a responsibility.”

The collection explores multiple dimensions of contemporary Nepali society, capturing emotions and aspirations for social change. Gyawali described it as a step toward societal transformation, aiming to amplify suppressed voices and reveal social realities through literature.

The launch was attended by prominent literary figures and public personalities, who praised Gyawali’s writing as accessible, impactful, and socially responsible. Food security expert Dr. Yamuna Ghale lauded her as a model of female leadership, recognising her contributions to women’s entrepreneurship and social engagement. Senior journalist Babita Basnet noted that the collection effectively reflects the feelings of women across social strata, describing the stories as both contemporary and inspirational.

Nepal Republic Media Editor-in-Chief Guna Raj Luitel highlighted the collection’s ability to capture small but meaningful slices of life. “Each story allows us to touch a little life, from which we observe the wider world. Being a storyteller requires empathy for each character and event, and Gyawali achieves this,” he said.

Ambassador of Pakistan to Nepal, Abrar H. Hashmi, expressed admiration for the portrayal of Nepali women’s resilience, while Nepal Police Inspector General Dan Bahadur Karki described Mandakini as a window into lived experiences, reflecting both personal and societal realities.

Representatives from business and industry, including Hemraj Dhakal and entrepreneur Radha Shrestha, praised Gyawali’s multifaceted personality—as a writer, journalist, and entrepreneur—and highlighted the book’s message of women’s empowerment. Human rights activist Ganesh Prasad Ghimire commended the sensitive treatment of social justice and human rights issues.

Literary scholar Dr. Navaraj Lamsal, serving as chief guest, lauded Mandakini for its vivid depiction of relationships, struggles, and emotions in contemporary society. He emphasised Gyawali’s engagement with rural women, self-employment, and community development, noting her consistent focus on economic empowerment and social awakening.

Nepal Republic Media Managing Director Sambridhi Gyawali highlighted Shova Gyawali’s dedication to documenting real-life experiences despite a busy schedule, calling her commitment inspiring and foundational for future work.

The event also included participation from entrepreneurs, journalists, and literature enthusiasts. Speakers praised Gyawali’s role in fostering leadership and entrepreneurship among women through initiatives like the Women Entrepreneurs’ Federation. The ceremony concluded with attendees wishing her a happy birthday and congratulating her on the new release, expressing hope that Mandakini will inspire readers to reflect, empathise, and engage in positive change.

Gyawali’s previous works, Sampurna Akash and Sangharsha, similarly centred on social realities, and Mandakini continues this approach, exploring the depth of human emotion and societal experience.