Kathmandu, Apr. 17

Renowned literary figures have, of course, earned global eminence. Their works, their pictures and their genius have inspired every successive generation. But, there are little efforts to take them to local contexts. And now world’s famous littérateurs have gone local thanks to the humble efforts of literary figure Kishan Singh Dhami.

With his sole efforts, pictures and biography of 121 literary figures from 34 countries have been put on display at the hall of Nepal Fine Arts Academy from Tuesday.

"The objective of the photo exhibition is to boost cultural harmony among the nations," said Dhami, who is the coordinator of Katajane Publication Private Limited that organized the programme.

He said that the publication intended to bring the books with pictorials and the biography of the eminent writers and distribute them to public schools across the country.

"We want to acquaint the famous writers with the students and lovers of literature living in far-flung parts of the country," he added.

The famous poets, novelists and story writers from the UK, USA, Russia, France, Germany, Nepal, India, China, Japan, Pakistan, Denmark, Finland, Switzerland, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Thailand, Norway, Australia, South Africa, Brazil, Myanmar, Egypt, Italy and Israel are included in the exhibition.

Nepal Fine Arts Academy chancellor Kiran Manandhar opened the three-day exposition amidst a function in Kathmandu.

Its theme is ‘World’s Famous Literary Figures and Views of Poets and Artists on Them."

"This is the outcome of Dhami’s great commitment to literature. He deserves kudos. This sort of exposition encourages the artists and writers to be united for the cause of nation,’ said Manandhar.

Vice-Chancellor of Nepal Academy Ganga Prasad Upreti said that pictures of writers provide insights about their nature and psychology.

Writer Radheshyam Lekali said that the audience would come across the pictures of writers whose works they knew but might have not seen their pictures.

Freelance journalist-cum- writer Sekhar Kharel noted that the works of literary figures influenced people’s sensitiveness and psychology as they grew up.

"Seemingly, Dhami’s lone initiatives sound whimsical but there lies a genuine desire to promote literature that bind the people and society," he added.

It is learnt that poets and artists will engage in their creative works at the exhibition’s venue by taking inspiration from the world’s famous literati.