Author:
✍️ Balram Walakham Rai
Abstract:
A flower blossomed from the heart of Mundhum, seeking the meaning of life, philosophy, and existence.
1. Introduction: Manu Yoṅhāṅ and His Literary Consciousness
Manu Yoṅhāṅ is one of those Nepali writers who present the profound realities of society in an artistic form. His words are not mere letters; they carry the sighs of social pain, dreams, and consciousness.
Though primarily a social realist, his vision extends beyond reality into philosophy, culture, and human sensitivity. His creative universe encompasses Nepal’s multicultural society, its complex history, and mythic consciousness, forming a deep backdrop.
His latest novel, “Sekmuri Phool,” is remarkable—it literary expands the dialogue between Kirat Mundhum philosophy and Buddhist thought.
2. Meeting and Book Launch: A Personal Experience
On a golden morning of Bada Dashain 2082, I had the privilege of meeting Manu Yoṅhāṅ in Surunga, Jhapa.
He held “Sekmuri Phool”—the fragrance of philosophy and beauty concealed in a beautiful cover. His gentle smile and soft voice conveyed a profound message:
“Literature is not just a story; it is the expression of the soul.”
This novel is written not just to be read, but for self-realization.
3. ‘Sekmuri Phool’: Symbol and Cultural Significance
‘Sekmuri Phool’ is not merely a botanical symbol; it signifies the transience of life, awareness of existence, and the rebirth of faith.
It is deeply linked with Kirati life sensibilities and Mundhum philosophy, encompassing the eternal cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.
“Life itself is a flower of truth, which must bloom in the soil of suffering.”
4. Dialogue Between Mundhum and Buddhist Philosophy
The essence of the novel lies here. Mundhum seeks unity with nature and soul; Buddhist philosophy seeks peace at the midpoint of mind and action.
The author seamlessly weaves these two traditions into the narrative. The characters’ dialogues, life perspectives, and acceptance of destiny make this dialogue vivid.
5. Depiction of Society and Reality
Social realism is the backbone of Manu Yoṅhāṅ’s writing. The novel subtly portrays Nepali rural society, class struggles, cultural conflicts, and transformations of faith.
Characters are real—living not just on the pages, but in our villages, homes, and lives. Main characters stand at the crossroads of tradition and modernity, preserving heritage while confronting modern consciousness.
6. Language Style and Symbolic Beauty
Manu Yoṅhāṅ’s style is delicate, concise, and poetic. He shows extraordinary skill in metaphor, symbol, and simile.
Each scene is a painting, each dialogue a poem.
Nature is not just a backdrop but a character—rivers speak, flowers think, and the sky becomes a silent witness.
7. Philosophy of Life and Existence
The novel raises fundamental questions about life and existence—Why live? What after death? What is the meaning of soul and consciousness?
Truth, in the author’s view, is not owned by any religion; it is the rhythm of nature. Characters achieve self-realization through life’s suffering.
8. Literary Value and Contribution
“Sekmuri Phool” is not merely a cultural artifact of the Kirat community, but a narrative of universal human consciousness.
Localized yet universal; extraordinary meaning within ordinary life.
9. Contemporary Relevance
In today’s world of identity crises, cultural displacement, and alienation, the novel delivers a message of self-awareness and revival of neglected Mundhum consciousness.
10. Conclusion: Philosophy Blossomed in Words
Manu Yoṅhāṅ’s “Sekmuri Phool” is a subtle yet profound achievement in Nepali literature.
Words bloom like flowers, ideas flow in the voice of Mundhum, and life philosophy pervades the text.
Reviewer:
Balram Walakham Rai
Social worker, retired military officer, actively engaged in cultural consciousness, good governance, education, and community empowerment in the Kirat Kulung community.
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