CHITWAN: In recent times, Chitwan has witnessed growing literary activities. Literary figures and lovers of literature in the district have been active in organising literary programmes.

Chairman of Sahitya Sangam Chitwan, Dwarika Nepal said, as many as 25 organisations working on literature were registered in the district. However, the number of unregistered organisations are more than the registered ones. Similarly, the number of active writers and literati is also growing in the region.

Nepal argued that such programmes have encouraged both writing and reading culture. Most of the literary organisations and associations publish books and award the writers.

Secretary of Chitwan Literary Council, Balkrishna Thapaliya, observed that people have showed growing interest in literature. The programmes organised on holidays ensure participation of both senior and young literati where they share their experiences, he added. Release of new books, interactions, and poetry recitation are some regular literary programmes.

Most of the writers and literary figures are associated with journalism, civil service and teaching, so holidays are chosen to ensure everyone's participation in the programme.

Moreover, Chairman of Kavidanda Literary Society, LB Chhetri, argued that literary programmes were growing in Chitwan because of the rising interests of readers and establishment of prizes and awards at local levels.

A noted youth writer from the district, Amar Neupane, was awarded with the prestigious Madan Puraskar, which has further helped in propelling the literary atmosphere.

Chhetri added that literary works of Neupane such as Seto Dharti, Karodaun Kasturi, and Paniko Gham were some of the best literature books.

Likewise, senior literary figure Prem Binod Nandan, who migrated to Chiwan from Tanahun, also viewed that literary activities were thriving in the district. "Publicity of literary creations through radio and newspapers is another factor encouraging writers and literary community," he underscored.

Youths pursuing studies as well as those engaged in jobs are active in the literary programmes. Not just locals of Chitwan, but also people hailing from outside the district hold such events here.