Bindu Sharma is known for her contributions to Nepali literature. She has published several works, including ‘Jantar Mantar’ in 2023 and ‘Okkal Dokkal Pipal Paat’ in 2019. The latter book was nominated for the Madan Puraskar in the year of its publication.

I met her at Martin Chautari in the evening, where we talked about her academic journey and writing. Passionate about gender equality and social justice, she has authored several research papers found in Nepal Journals Online.

In this chat with the Post’s Aarya Chand, Sharma reflects on her journey in academia as a woman and her works tackling women’s exploitation in society.

What shaped your path as a writer and literary critic?

I completed my schooling in Dang before moving to Kathmandu, where I pursued Sociology at Padma Kanya Multiple Campus in 1998, with Nepali as one of its components. This eventually led me to pursue a Master’s degree in Nepali in 2002. Although many suggested that I explore a different field, especially since my husband was already a Nepali teacher, I remained firm in my decision.

I had not originally intended to become a writer or a professor, but as I delved deeper into Nepali literature, I unearthed my passion for it. Since I was already married then, I started thinking about career paths that would allow me to balance my personal and professional life. Teaching seemed like a stable and practical choice, and I opted for Nepali, as it is a compulsory subject, ensuring better job opportunities.

Your works address themes of social inequality, especially in education and gender rights. Can you share more about your books and the inspiration behind them?

I grew up in a family with a mother who lacked formal education, and a father who only completed the second grade. Growing up, I became aware of the disparities in educational opportunities—my younger brother was sent to a private school while my sister and I were enrolled in government schools. This unequal treatment led me to challenge societal norms. Eventually, I convinced my parents to send my sister to a private school, ensuring she had the same educational opportunities.

One of my books, ‘Okkal Dokkal Pipal Paat’, is a collection of poems that highlights the exploitation of women in society. It explores the challenges women face and emphasises the need for change in societal norms. Another work, ‘Jantar Mantar’, is a children’s book featuring illustrations by Alina Chhantel. It tells the story of Meena, a character who faces invisible troubles, exploring themes of perception and understanding.

In one of your poems, you’ve challenged Plato’s ideal republic and the exclusion of poets. What inspired you to criticise his philosophical views, and do you see poetry as a tool for social resistance?

I wrote the poem ‘Platolai Prashna’ when parliament was dissolved in 2021, only for Nepal’s Supreme Court to reinstate it later. In my writing, I sought to draw parallels between these events and Plato’s philosophies, particularly his argument that poets were harmful to his ideal republic and should be excluded.

In Plato’s era, poets were seen as a threat, but in the present, they stand for progress, using their voices to challenge injustice and corruption. Ironically, those in power now create division, engage in discrimination, and misuse their authority. This led me to question whether poets are dangerous to an ideal republic or if the real threat comes from corrupt politicians. In today’s context, it is the latter.

What obstacles have you encountered as a writer and educator, and how have you dealt with them?

Financial challenges were never a major concern for me, as my family always managed to provide. I was fortunate to be one of the few who completed their education.

As a writer, however, I faced resistance from relatives who found my critical views bothersome. They would often complain to my mother about my opinions when I wasn’t home. I remember being asked in an interview if I faced any challenges growing up as a girl in my family. While my experiences weren’t extreme, I did have to make small compromises for my younger brother simply because I was a daughter—something that never felt right to me.

In my teaching career, another challenge persists, some male colleagues assume that any opportunity or publication a woman receives is merely due to her gender. This dismissive mindset is very frustrating.

Recently, I was part of a strike protesting the updated BA curriculum. Upon reviewing it, we discovered that only three female writers were included, with the rest of the works featuring no female contributions at all. This lack of representation remains a pressing issue that demands change.

Which book left an impression on you? And how has it influenced you?

Parijat’s ‘Shirish Ko Phool’ left a lasting impression on me. Its poetic depth and ideological stance marked a turning point in Nepali literature. Through Ralpha Andolan, she developed a writing style that championed freedom, questioned rigid beliefs, collectivism, and materialism.

The way she wrote about women’s issues and used different literary techniques showed me how writing can drive social change. In critiquing her works, I focus not only on her ideas but also on how effectively she conveys them. Her ability to merge personal experiences with Marxist philosophy has shaped my approach to literary criticism, reinforcing the importance of staying true to one’s principles while embracing intellectual growth.

Bindu Sharma’s book recommendations

Abiral Bagdachha Indrawati

Author: Ramesh Bikal

Publisher: Sajha Prakashan

Year: 1982/3

This book beautifully portrays the lives of fishermen and women from the coastal regions of the Indrawati River.

Anido Pahad Sangai

Author: Parijat

Publisher: Phoenix Book

Year: 2016 (new edition)

Parijat’s writing teaches us to fight an oppressive system. It also reveals the struggles of those who challenge societal norms.

Aato Oda

Author: Januka Khatiwada

Publisher: Kalam Prakashan

Year: 2023

I recommend this book to young readers as it explores Nepal’s current issues, with a focus on women and marginalised communities.

Yambunera

Author: Bina Theeng

Publisher: Phoenix Books

Year: 2020

Theeng exposes the harsh realities of systemic discrimination, revealing the deep-seated inequalities in power and identity.

Urgenko Ghoda

Author: Yug Pathak

Publisher: Fine Print Books

Year: 2012

This book by Pathak offers a rare perspective on Nepal’s civil war through the lens of the Tamang community.