On Friday, 16th Jestha 2082, Khwopa College of Engineering became a vibrant hub of literary and artistic celebration as the college’s Literature Circle orchestrated a successful “Book Review & Poem Recitation Program.” Held in Hall No. 1 of Block A, the event drew an audience of around 170 students and faculty members, all eager to witness the creative talents and intellectual insights of their peers. The program, designed to foster a deeper appreciation for literature and the arts, provided students with a platform to share their literary analyses, poetic expressions, and performance skills, thereby enriching the college’s cultural environment.

The event was inaugurated by the Vice Principal of Khwopa College of Engineering, Er. Ratna Shova Prajapati delivered a warm welcome address. In her remarks, Er. Prajapati commended the Literature Circle for organizing such a meaningful co-curricular activity and highlighted its significance in nurturing students’ holistic development. She emphasized the importance of critical thinking, public speaking, and cultural engagement, all of which are vital for well-rounded academic growth. Furthermore, Er. Prajapati reassured the college of its continued support for initiatives that broaden students’ intellectual and cultural horizons.

The first segment of the program, the Book Review Session, showcased students’ analytical abilities and their passion for literature. Three standout presentations captivated the audience. Shruti Sharma opened the session with a thoughtful review of Mitch Albom’s Tuesdays With Morrie. She eloquently explored the book’s themes of mentorship, life lessons, and the profound conversations between Mitch and his dying professor, Morrie Schwartz. Shruti’s analysis touched on universal topics such as regret, love, aging, and the search for meaning, and she left a lasting impression by quoting a poignant line from the book: “The truth is, once you learn how to die, you learn how to live.”

Pushpa Bhandari followed with her insightful examination of Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life. She skillfully explained the concept of Ikigai—finding one’s purpose through balance, routine, and community—and related these principles to student well-being and motivation. Pushpa’s calm and clear delivery made complex philosophical ideas accessible, inspiring her peers to seek joy and purpose in their daily lives.

Rexsh K Suwal concluded the book review segment with an analytical presentation of Albert Camus’ The Stranger. He delved into the novel’s existential themes, focusing on the protagonist Meursault’s emotional detachment and the resulting exploration of life’s absurdity. Rexsh’s ability to connect Camus’ philosophy to modern existential struggles and societal definitions of morality resonated with the audience, sparking thoughtful discussion during the interactive Q&A that followed each review.

The second segment, the Poem Recitation Session, featured both original and classic poems, recited with clarity and emotional depth. Bigyan Neupane began with his reflective poem “फेरि एक्लै,” which explored solitude, internal conflict, and the human journey through silence. His subtle yet intense delivery left a thoughtful impression. Prabesh Timilsina followed with his powerful poem “सिंहासनमाथि लाश,” using vivid imagery and metaphor to critique power structures and evoke strong emotional and political undertones. The Literature Circle’s coordinator, Sushant Gautam, concluded the poetry segment with his original composition “देश माथिको मेरो गुनासो,” a patriotic lament on the nation’s moral decline, expressed with both hope and emotional resonance.

Adding to the event’s vibrancy, the literary presentations were complemented by lively musical and dance performances from the college’s Music Circle. The cultural segment opened with a melodious rendition of “Chaubandima Patuki” by Prasamsha Adhikari, Swornim Shrestha, and Bibek Adhikari. Kristi Koju and Shreya Khatri then captivated the audience with an elegant “Likawaya” dance, while a group of students—Matina Awal, Ritsa Pakhrin, Sukriti Joshi, Aastha Poudel, Piyush Rokaya, and Manee Das Shrestha—delighted attendees with a spirited performance of “Dali Dali Phool Phulyo.” The cultural performances concluded with a group rendition of “Mero Desh Dubna Lagyo” by Anupam Poudel, Biryan Kattel, Pratishthit Raj Baral, Matina Awal, Pranil Palikhel, Prashant Bharati, Piyush Rokaya, Sajan Sahikarmi, Pranjal Regmi, and Prajin Manandhar, receiving enthusiastic applause.

The “Book Review & Poem Recitation Program” was a resounding success, showcasing the diverse talents of Khwopa College’s students and the dedication of the Literature Circle volunteers. All presenters and performers were honored with certificates, and outstanding contributions were recognized with gift hampers. Ms. Jastara Koju, Head of the Library Section, delivered closing remarks, praising the organizers and underscoring the enduring value of literature and library resources in academic and personal development. She encouraged students to remain engaged with literary and artistic pursuits.