BOOK REVIEW-NUN TEL: BIGATTIRA PADYATRA

 

"Nun Tel: Bigattira Padyatra" translates to "Salt and Oil: A Journey into the Past." Written by Jiwan Kshetry and published by Sangrila Books, this non-fiction work intertwines personal memoir with broader social and environmental narratives, offering readers both an intimate family history and a panoramic view of Nepal's socio-economic transformations.

Narrative Structure

The book employs a non-linear narrative, weaving together memories, historical events, and environmental observations. Kshetry retraces his family's migration from the mid-western hills of Baglung to the plains of Rupandehi, symbolizing broader migration patterns in Nepal. This structure allows him to juxtapose personal anecdotes with historical facts, creating a rich tapestry that highlights the resilience and adaptability of his family and, by extension, many Nepali families.

Themes

1. Migration and Survival: At its core, "Nun Tel" chronicles the arduous journeys undertaken by Kshetry's ancestors in search of basic necessities like salt and oil. These migrations are emblematic of the broader socio-economic challenges faced by Nepali families, including limited resources, harsh terrains, and the quest for better opportunities.
2. Environmental Concerns: The book delves into the environmental impact of migration and modernization. Kshetry reflects on how traditional lifestyles, which were more harmonious with nature, have been disrupted by the demands of progress. Issues like deforestation, soil erosion, and the loss of biodiversity are subtly interwoven into the narrative, underscoring the delicate balance between development and environmental preservation.
3. Historical Context: Kshetry provides a detailed account of significant historical events that have shaped Nepal over the past century. This includes the recruitment of Gorkha soldiers during World War II, the migration of Nepalis to Burma, and the socio-political changes that have influenced migration patterns and economic opportunities.
4. Family and Identity: The personal memoir aspect of the book emphasizes the importance of family heritage and identity. By tracing his lineage and their migrations, Kshetry explores how familial bonds and cultural identity are maintained and transformed across generations amidst changing socio-economic landscapes.
5. Economic Struggles and Resilience: The pursuit of essential commodities like salt and oil serves as a metaphor for the economic struggles faced by ordinary Nepali citizens. The narrative highlights the resilience required to overcome adversity, emphasizing themes of perseverance and adaptability.

Historical and Socio-Economic Context

Nepal's geography, characterized by its rugged terrains and diverse climates, has historically posed significant challenges to its inhabitants. The migration from hills to plains, as depicted in "Nun Tel," is not merely a physical journey but also a response to economic necessities and environmental pressures. During the early to mid-20th century, many Nepalis migrated in search of better livelihoods, influenced by factors such as:

• British Colonialism: The recruitment of Gorkha soldiers by the British during World War II had profound socio-economic impacts, leading to shifts in labor patterns and influencing migration trends.
• Migration to Burma: Economic opportunities abroad attracted many Nepalis to Burma (now Myanmar), seeking employment and better living conditions. This migration had lasting effects on both the individuals involved and the communities they left behind.
• Post-War Developments: The aftermath of World War II brought significant changes, including increased awareness of global events, shifts in political power, and the beginnings of modernization, all of which influenced migration and economic strategies.

Environmental Significance

Kshetry's emphasis on environmental themes is particularly noteworthy. By linking his family's migration to broader environmental changes, he underscores the interconnectedness of human activity and ecological balance. The transition from traditional, nature-centric lifestyles to more industrialized and resource-intensive practices has led to several environmental challenges:

• Deforestation: As families move from the hills to the plains, the demand for land increases, often resulting in deforestation and loss of natural habitats.
• Soil Erosion: Agricultural practices and construction in new settlements can lead to soil degradation, affecting agricultural productivity and contributing to landslides.
• Biodiversity Loss: The disruption of ecosystems through migration and development threatens local flora and fauna, leading to a decline in biodiversity.

Kshetry's reflections on these issues serve as a cautionary tale, urging readers to consider the long-term environmental consequences of economic and social advancements.

Cultural and Literary Impact

"Nun Tel" holds a significant place in Nepali literature for several reasons:

1. Blending Genres: By combining memoir, social history, and environmental commentary, Kshetry creates a multifaceted narrative that appeals to a diverse readership. This genre-blending enriches Nepali literature, encouraging other authors to explore similar interdisciplinary approaches.
2. Preserving Oral Histories: The use of oral history to document family migrations ensures that personal and community stories are preserved for future generations. This method adds authenticity and depth to the narrative, making historical events more relatable and tangible.
3. Highlighting Underrepresented Narratives: The book sheds light on lesser-known aspects of Nepal's history, such as the specific migration routes and the socio-economic factors driving them. By doing so, Kshetry fills gaps in the existing literary landscape, providing a more comprehensive understanding of Nepal's past.
4. Environmental Advocacy: Through his environmental themes, Kshetry contributes to the growing discourse on sustainability and ecological responsibility in Nepal. His work encourages readers to reflect on the environmental costs of progress and the importance of maintaining ecological balance.

Writing Style

Jiwan Kshetry's writing style in "Nun Tel: Bigattira Padyatra" is a blend of descriptive prose, reflective commentary, and narrative storytelling that brings both the landscape of Nepal and the lives of its people vividly to life. His approach is deeply rooted in personal reflection, yet it carries a universal appeal, as he intertwines the personal experiences of his family with broader socio-economic and environmental issues.

Descriptive and Evocative Prose: Kshetry's prose is rich in description, capturing the physical environment of Nepal with great detail. Whether he is describing the rugged hills of Baglung or the fertile plains of Rupandehi, his writing paints a vivid picture that immerses the reader in the setting. This attention to detail is not just about the physical landscape; it also extends to the lives and struggles of the people who inhabit these areas. Kshetry's descriptions are often accompanied by sensory details that evoke the sounds, smells, and textures of the places he writes about, making his narrative deeply immersive.

Reflective and Introspective: A significant aspect of Kshetry's writing style is its introspective nature. As he retraces his ancestors' journeys, he often pauses to reflect on the meaning of these migrations, both for his family and for the larger society. His reflections are thoughtful and contemplative, delving into the emotional and psychological impact of displacement, survival, and adaptation. This introspection adds depth to the narrative, making it not just a historical recounting but also a personal exploration of identity and belonging.

Narrative Storytelling: Kshetry's narrative style is engaging and accessible, characterized by a seamless blend of storytelling and factual recounting. He uses a non-linear narrative, moving back and forth in time to weave together past and present, personal and historical. This approach allows him to create a rich tapestry of stories that are interconnected, reflecting the complexities of migration, environmental changes, and socio-economic shifts in Nepal. His storytelling is compelling, drawing the reader into the lives of his ancestors and the challenges they faced.

Integration of Oral History: Kshetry's use of oral history is another distinctive feature of his writing style. He incorporates the voices of his ancestors and other community members, preserving their stories and memories within the narrative. This use of oral history adds authenticity to the book, grounding it in the lived experiences of real people. It also reflects a broader cultural tradition in Nepal, where oral storytelling has long been a way of preserving history and knowledge.

Environmental Commentary: Kshetry's writing also includes a subtle but persistent environmental commentary. While his primary focus is on the migrations and struggles of his ancestors, he also reflects on the environmental consequences of these movements. His commentary is woven into the narrative, often emerging in descriptions of the changing landscape or in reflections on the sustainability of traditional practices. This environmental awareness adds another layer to the book, making it relevant to contemporary discussions on sustainability and ecological preservation.

Language and Tone: The language in "Nun Tel" is straightforward yet poetic, balancing simplicity with a lyrical quality that enhances the narrative's emotional resonance. Kshetry's tone is empathetic and respectful, particularly when dealing with the stories of his ancestors and the hardships they endured. This respectful tone ensures that the narrative remains grounded in the lived experiences of the people it portrays, avoiding romanticization or exaggeration.

Cultural Sensitivity: Throughout the book, Kshetry demonstrates a deep cultural sensitivity, particularly in how he portrays the traditions, values, and beliefs of the communities he writes about. His writing respects the cultural context of the stories he tells, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of the challenges and resilience of Nepali communities. This sensitivity is evident in how he handles delicate topics like migration, displacement, and environmental degradation, ensuring that the narrative remains both informative and respectful.

 

Conclusion

Jiwan Kshetry's "Nun Tel: Bigattira Padyatra" is a profound exploration of migration, survival, and environmental consciousness within the context of Nepal's rich history. Through a blend of personal memoir and social commentary, Kshetry offers readers an intimate look into his family's journey while simultaneously painting a broader picture of the challenges and transformations that have shaped modern Nepal.

The book stands out for its ability to connect individual experiences with larger historical and environmental themes, making it a significant work in Nepali literature. It not only preserves valuable oral histories but also prompts reflection on the delicate balance between progress and preservation, urging society to consider the long-term implications of its developmental choices.

For readers interested in understanding the intricate dynamics of Nepali society, migration patterns, and environmental issues, "Nun Tel" provides both depth and breadth, making it a compelling and enlightening read.