The politics of Gorkha martial valour: A critical introduction to modern Nepali war poetry

Abstract

This paper presents a critical analysis of Nepali war poetry across a timeframe of about two centuries. A mapping has been made of the development of war as a theme in poetry in both East and West, followed by a passing remark on the advent of modernity in Nepali poetry. The paper underscores three identifiable shifts in the general trajectory of Nepali war poetry, which also entail three major thematic shifts. The earliest Nepali war poetry, sponsored more or less by the existing palace or royalty, depicts war as a martial vocation. This depiction has its fall-out effect in the development of the Nepali as Gorkhas, known for their alleged “bravery”, which reached its climax during the Second World War. The romanticism of such international recognition did not, however, last long, as Nepal continued to reel under poverty and underdevelopment while other countries developed. Poets, therefore, started questioning the identity of Gorkha martial valour as constructed and turned their pen towards patriotic writing instead of celebrating valour elsewhere. The recent trend in Nepali war poetry has, however, abandoned these thematic strains and stands totally in opposition to war. Instead, it has started exploring local alternatives to war, including peace based on Buddha’s messages and Nepal’s indigenous teachings.

Keywords

• disillusionment
• gorkha
• identity
• martial race
• modernity
• war poetry