Kavishiromani Rachanawali, a five-volume compilation of eminent poet Lekhnath Paudyal’s work, was launched amid a function held at R Shala, in Kalikasthan, on Monday. The compilation includes all of Paudyal’s published works, along with some of his previously unpublished materials.

Speaking at the event, Rama Sharma, secretary of Nepali Siksha Parishad, said that Paudyal’s poems “inspire us to be moral and honest.” “The new generation of poets need to embrace the ethos of his work,” Sharma said.

The compilation is edited by Professor Sanat Kumar Wasti. “I worship Baba’s [Paudyal’s] poetry. It’s a privilege that I got to work on this compilation,” Wasti said speaking at the event.

Paudyal (1885-1966) is considered the pioneer of modern Nepali poetry. His published works include Varsha Vichara, Ritu Bichara, Buddhi Vinod, Satya Kali Sabaad, and Taruna Tapasi, among others.

“It is unfortunate to realise that many important works of literature by legendary authors are not available in the market with ease,” said Kiran Krishna Shrestha of Nepalaya. “We believe such works need to be published. Such books will be published under our Nepalaya classics series.”

Kavi Shiromani Rachanawali comes as a set of five hardbound book for a sum total of Rs 6,975.