Dr. Anju Gupta
The novel Maobadi Janayuddha: Qaidi Number 51 ko Bayan, by Krishna Mabuhang, as I have observed, stresses on the author’s poignant depiction of the country at the height of Maobadi insurgency. It reflects the uncertainties and conflicting situations that many Nepalese experienced. Despite being a fictionalized account, the novel refers to a number of events rooted in the political and military situation during that period. This anti-war novel describes the effects of the civil war on Nepalese countryside.
A large part of the book narrates personal bitter experiences of villagers of hilly districts as well as Tarai region. It can certainly be described as an ‘anti-war novel’ as it emphasizes on the losses of lives, atrocities of the war and its long-term impact on the common man as well as state.
The novel presents a pathetic true picture of the people who were forced victims which compels the author to question the authenticity of civil war and the accompanying violence. The author questions the use of violence. Are deaths and martyrs necessary to give birth to a new world, supposedly better than the present one? The author certainly has doubts about revolutionary ideals.
After decades of Maoists insurgency, the author has knifed and cut opened the wound which was subsiding. The author’s imagination makes pathetic tragedy come raw and alive with urgency. However, his language is simple, colloquial and his voice is genuine and sincere. Luckily, he is able to maintain original nuances. The descriptions are very realistic and touches to the bone. We can all associate with the emotions described.
On the whole, the novel illuminates a confused world that is pulled in different directions. The narration reflects current uncertainties and the conflicting situations that many Nepalese experience when torn between both modern and traditional values. I believe, the book is certain to receive many honors. I wish the author all the very best. He is surely going to get much critical appreciation. The floor is now open for critical acclaim.
[Dr. Gupta is Associate Professor at the Central Department of English, Tribhuvan University.]