The India-Nepal relationship was a major topic of discussion at the international literature festival held at Dibrugarh University, Assam. The four-day literary event brought together over 200 writers from 25 countries across Asia, Africa, and Europe, engaging in 50+ sessions on various literary and cultural issues.
One of the most engaging discussions was on “Nepal Narrative: People, Palace, and Politics”, where prominent Nepali authors and scholars explored the historical, cultural, and political ties between India and Nepal.
Nepal’s Geopolitical Dilemma: North or South?
The panel discussion featured Kathmandu-based author Amish Raj Mulmi, best known for his book “All Roads Lead North: Nepal’s Turn to China”. Mulmi shared insights into how Nepal’s relationship with India has changed over the years due to economic and political factors.
According to Mulmi, Nepal’s historical and cultural roots lie deeply connected with India, but recent developments have pushed the country to “look north” towards China due to economic necessities. He acknowledged that Nepal’s increasing economic dependence on China has impacted its diplomatic ties with India.
Former Indian Ambassador to Nepal, Ranjit Rae, who was also part of the panel, humorously suggested that Mulmi’s book should have been titled “All Roads Lead to the South”, emphasizing Nepal’s deeper historical and cultural links with India rather than China.
The Impact of Nepal’s Political Shifts on India Relations
Mulmi also discussed how Nepal’s transition from a monarchy to a democratic republic in 2008 played a role in shaping India-Nepal relations. The abolition of the 240-year-old monarchy, which also marked the end of Nepal being the world’s only Hindu nation, initially led to stronger ties with India. However, political shifts and economic challenges later strained the relationship.
Nepali Identity and Cultural Misrepresentation
Another key speaker at the event was Nepali writer Smriti Ravindra, known for her novel “The Woman Who Climbed Trees”. Ravindra highlighted how Nepali people are often misrepresented in literature, with a strong focus on the Himalayas and mountain climbers.
She emphasized that Nepal is not just about the Himalayas—it also has a vast lowland region called Terai, home to millions of people. The Terai region, located in southern Nepal, shares strong cultural and ethnic ties with India, often leading to identity confusion for its people.
Madheshi Community: A Unique Cultural Identity
As a Madheshi woman from Terai, Ravindra pointed out that her community often faces identity challenges within Nepal. The Madheshis—who live in southern Nepal and closely resemble Indians—are sometimes mistaken for Indians even within Nepal.
Due to their close proximity to the Indian border, Madheshis have historically felt neglected by Nepal’s northern government. However, Ravindra proudly shared that cross-border marriages between Indians and Madheshis are common in her family, showcasing the deep cultural bonds between India and Nepal.
India-Nepal Relations: A Complex Yet Enduring Bond
The historical and cultural relationship between India and Nepal remains deeply rooted despite political and economic challenges. The discussions at the literature festival in Assam provided valuable insights into the dynamics of Nepal’s foreign policy, cultural identity, and the evolving India-Nepal relationship.
With literature playing a crucial role in shaping narratives, events like these offer a platform for authors, scholars, and readers to engage in meaningful conversations about historical ties, cultural identity, and geopolitical realities.
The literary discussions at Dibrugarh University shed light on the intricate India-Nepal relationship, the shifting geopolitical influences, and the need for cultural representation in literature. As Nepal continues to balance its ties between India and China, the role of writers and intellectuals in shaping public discourse becomes even more important.
The bond between India and Nepal is more than just political—it is cultural, historical, and deeply personal for many families across the borders. Literature serves as an important medium to bridge the gaps, correct misconceptions, and strengthen the connection between these two neighboring nations.
