Frankfurt: Marking the occasion of Basant Panchami, the Germany Chapter of the International Nepali Literary Society (ANESAS) organized its fifth literary ceremony on February 3, 2025 (Magh 20, 2081 BS) in Frankfurt, Germany.
The event, which began with a ritual worship of Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom, was chaired by ANESAS Germany President Sujata Ghimire, while Dr. Shail Rupakheti, Nepal’s Ambassador to Germany and ten other European nations, graced the event as the chief guest.
Literary enthusiasts from Belgium, the Netherlands, and other neighboring countries actively participated in the ceremony. Notable speakers included travel writer Jeeva Lamichhane and ANESAS International Vice President & Europe Representative Dilli Ammai. Additionally, Gopal Dahal, General Secretary of ANESAS Belgium Chapter, provided insights into an upcoming literary event scheduled in Belgium from June 23 to 25, 2025.
The program featured panel discussions, book reviews, poetry recitations, quiz contests, and musical performances. More than a dozen poets and writers from Germany, including Sagar Phuyal, Lilaraj Karki, Shishir Pariyar, Manoj Kumar Yadav, Saurabh Karanjit, Dinesh Pradhan, Yagya Adhikari, Kritan Gautam, Suman Simkhada, Hari Humagain, Ajit Khadka, Ineshraj Subedi, Baburam, Manojbabu Paneru, Kapil Aryal, Lukas Luitel, Ravikiran Kafle, Sanjay Paudel, and Bimal Ranabhat, recited their literary works.
A book discussion was also held, focusing on “Germany: Immigration and Experiences” by Khadga Nyaupane, with facilitation by Kapil Aryal. In a dedicated session on travel writing, Jeeva Lamichhane shared insights on the importance of prioritizing personal experiences over factual information in travel literature. Responding to questions from moderator and ANESAS Germany advisor Subash Chandra Sapkota, Lamichhane emphasized that while facts can be easily found on the internet, personal experiences make a story truly unique. He also took the opportunity to discuss his latest book, “Akshata Antarctica,” and spoke about the significance of sustainable and eco-friendly tourism.
The event also recognized key contributors to Nepali literature and community service in Germany. Nepalese Consul General Ram Pratap Thapa was honored for his long-standing contributions to Nepali literature and the community. Similarly, former NRNA President Kumar Pant and Hotel Trip Inn were presented with certificates of appreciation for their significant support. Ambassador Dr. Rupakheti also distributed certificates to special contributors and participating poets.
In her closing remarks, ANESAS Germany President Sujata Rawat expressed confidence that the event would contribute to the promotion of Nepali literature in the diaspora. She highlighted the chapter’s achievement of organizing five literary events within a year, transforming the previously dormant literary scene. She urged continued support and collaboration for future initiatives.
The event, attended by hundreds of Nepali literature enthusiasts, was coordinated by Pratiksha Pokharel, while Khadga Nyaupane, Gaurav Tiwari, and Seema Dhungana hosted the program. Niraj Sodari and Eliza Humagain managed logistical arrangements.
