Suvarnalata, a novel by Malika Keshari, was launched amid much fanfare in the Capital on Monday. Many esteemed writers were present at the function which had included several speeches followed by a discussion. Amid the attendees were author Amar Nyaupane, literary critic Dr Ram Prasad Gyawali, and Professor Ramlal Lohani, who praised the new book for it’s incorporation of Buddhist themes and for Keshari’s unique stylistic flair.

Speaking at the event, the Madan Puraskar-winning author Nyaupane said that “in spite of being a lengthy novel, Suvarnalata keeps readers engaged with its simple but deft style”. “The fact that the eponymous character is over 2,500 years old and still alive and young is believable in the context of the work due to the author’s fine writing,” Nyaupane added. 

Though set in the present day, both the Buddha and Suvarnalata are living characters in the novel. According to Professor Lohani, the conversation depicted between the two is tinged with romance and is ultimately heart-rending. “The question of whether Suvarnalata’s suffering and sacrifice will win the day is what will likely keep readers riveted to this book,” Lohani said.

Though only recently published, Suvarnalata has already gained wide acclaim among readers. Prompted by its success, author Keshari is currently working on a sequel to the novel.