A literary discussion that revolved around author Shyam Shingak’s latest novel, Remitland, took place in Damak on Wednesday. The discussion, organised by Nepal Literary Group, saw a panel discussion, which included authors and scholars Rajan Mukarang, Mishra Bhaijanti, Naresh Kangmang and Prakash Thamgsuhang.

“Remitland is not the story of just the struggles of migrant workers,” said author Shingak, speaking at the event. “It is the story of the sad reality that the families of migrant workers are living with, here at home.” He added, “There is a common, and misleading, belief that the families of migrant workers enjoy their life here, while their husbands slave away in the Gulf. How true is that? I have tried to seek answers through this book, with which I also attempt to help make people realise many important aspects of migrant employment.”

In the discussion, writer Bhaijanti said, “Remitland is an organic novel which deals with an often-overlooked consequence of migrant employment-on the families who are left behind.” 

Meanwhile, another panelist, Kangmang, commended the book for addressing the issue of cultural identity and its relationship with migrant workers. He said, “The trend of migrant employment was first born, a long time back, with the Gurkhas. But we usually centre our discussion as if the impacts, mostly negative, are only on the workers. We also overlook its effect on culture and tradition here in Nepal. This book deals with that part too, very beautifully.” 

The book Remitland was released on March 27 at Mandala Theatre, Kathmandu. Author Shingak had previously published the book, Dalit.