The significant role of the Nepali diaspora in the fields of Nepali language and literature was emphasized during an event held in Maryland on Sunday. The interactive session was organized by the International Nepali Literary Society (INLS), which underscored how the Nepali language and literature have spread across the globe along with the Nepali community.
Dr. Hari Bhandari, a Maryland State legislator, highlighted the potential of literature to create political discourse. He stated, “We must create literary works that cater to readers’ interests to preserve and promote the Nepali language.”
Dr. Shyam Karki, former Chairman of the International Board of Trustees, noted the crucial role that expatriate Nepalis play in enhancing Nepali language and literature.
The interaction, chaired by INLS Central Committee President Gobardhan Pooja, also featured discussions on the role of the Nepali diaspora by INLS Board of Trustees Chairman Padam Bishwokarma, founding President Homnath Subedi, newly elected President Sarbagya Wagle, as well as literary figures Tirtha Pandey, journalist Madhukar Adhikari, Prakash Nepal, Narayan Adhikari, Rajendra Shrestha, and Bimala Niraula.
During the event, Dr. Shyam Karki was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, and Homnath Subedi received the Diaspora Dhrubatara Award.
The event also saw the swearing-in of the newly elected Central Committee of INLS, led by President Sarbagya Wagle. The oath of office was administered by Election Committee Convener Gunraj Luitel. The new committee includes Lal Gopal Suvedi as Senior Vice President, Raju Sitaula as General Secretary, Sudipbhadra Khanal as Vice President, and Tara Adhikari as Treasurer. The committee will serve a two-year term.
