Dharan/Pokhara,
On November 10, 2024, researcher Biswas Dip Tigela proposed renaming the Nepali language to Khas-Jumli, Gorkha, or Parbate also suggested redefining the concept of Nepali literature.
Tigela argued that having the country and its language share the same name creates significant problems. While dominant languages can influence a nation’s name, using the state’s name for a language often leads to linguistic exploitation of minority groups. He traced the language’s origins to the Khas language from the western region of Nepal, known as Khasan. Over time, dialects like Jumleli, Doteli, and Kumauni evolved from Khas, but the original Khas language is now on the verge of extinction.
A 2016 Linguistic Scientific Survey revealed that 75% of Jumli speakers use Nepali in conversations. Tigela emphasized that Nepali is very similar to the Jumli dialect and pointed out that the language has been called different names throughout history: B.S. 1150–1450 Sinjali language, B.S. 1450–1850 Parbate language, B.S. 1850–1990 Gorkhali language. The name “Nepali” was only officially adopted after B.S. 1990. Historically, the language was referred to as Pahadiya Khaskura. Tigela noted that the term “Nepali” was popularized under pressure from prominent figures like Surya Bikram Gyawali, Dharanidhar Koirala, and Parasmani Pradhan in Darjeeling, leading to the adoption of the name for academic purposes in 1989 (2032 B.S.).
Once the language was officially called Nepali, it created indirect pressure to associate loyalty to Nepal with speaking Nepali. This sidelined other languages, creating misunderstanding about the identity of those who didn’t speak it. For instance, in B.S. 1962 (1905), then-Prime Minister Chandra Shumsher invalidated administrative documents written in languages other than Nepali. To address this history of linguistic colonization, Tigela proposed renaming the language as Khas-Jumli, Gorkha, or Parbate.
Tigela also highlighted issues faced by Indian citizens of Nepali-speaking heritage. These communities, residing in Darjeeling, Sikkim, Assam, and other areas, often face discrimination. For instance, when they visit South India and mention speaking Nepali, locals assume they are from Nepal, despite their deep roots in India. Additionally, the term “Nepali” has become associated with stereotypes, leading to insults like Kancha or Bahadur. Tigela suggested that renaming the language to Khas-Jumli or Gorkha would reduce these misunderstandings and improve the dignity of Nepali-speaking communities in India while addressing linguistic colonization in Nepal.
Tigela also argued for expanding the definition of Nepali literature. He criticized the narrow view that only works written in the Nepali (Khas-Jumli) language using the Devanagari script qualify as Nepali literature. According to him, literature in all languages spoken in Nepal, including indigenous and mother tongues, should be recognized as Nepali literature. He emphasized that those with a Nepali identity and pride in their heritage should view literature in Khas-Jumli or their mother tongue as part of Nepali literature.
During a program organized by the Federation of Indigenous Nationalities Literati and Writers UK, Tigela recommended submitting suggestions to the Language Commission in Kathmandu. Participants included KYC Nepal’s Deputy Secretary General Dr. Yogendra Palungwa, Federation of Indigenous Nationalities (Dharan) President Subash Chandra Hukpa Chongwang, and others such as poet Parijat Pomu, writer Mani Rai Gothale, and journalist Yakthung Sa (Nischal Chemjong). The program was coordinated by Federation UK’s Amit Thebe.
On November 11, 2024, another interaction on the same topic was held at Tamu Dhee Pokhara. The event, organized by Tamu Dhee Pokhara and moderated by Chairman Mr. Hum Gurung, drew a large crowd. The event arrangements were managed by Jagat Gurung, Monoj Gharti Magar and Hitkaji Gurung.
