An Anniversary Issue Dedicated to Dr Govinda Rizal [Special Editorial]
Bhutaneseliterature.com marks its 15th Anniversary today. On this pious occasion, we are reflecting on a journey that is characterized by our resilience, creativity, and the indomitable spirit of the Bhutanese literary and cultural community. Bhutaneseliterature.com’s 15th Anniversary Issue, themed “Life after Resettlement,” is not just a celebration of longevity but a homage to the vibrant narratives that have shaped our diasporic experiences and the voices that have shaped our collective and individual histories.
Among these voices was Dr Govinda Rizal, whose untimely departure on 5th May 2024 left a void in our hearts and our literary fabric. A regular contributor to our portal, Dr Rizal was more than a writer; he was a guardian of our identity and hope of intellect and insight. His work spanned the scientific to the literary, reflecting a life lived at the confluence of knowledge, culture, and social activism. His writings reflect the reality of our experiences and challenge us to think critically about our past, our displacement, and our roots. At the same time, they also encourage us to envision a future filled with hope and determination.
In this special issue, we delve into the theme of “Life after Resettlement.” We proudly chronicle the metamorphosis our community has undergone in the past fifteen years. Through poetry, essays, and stories, we explore the journey of loss and rejuvenation and the intricacies of identity and belonging. We cherish the ongoing conversation between our unfortunate past and our immediate future, which brims with hope and optimism. Each piece is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Bhutanese spirit, echoing Dr. Rizal’s commitment to capturing the depth and breadth of our experiences as documented in his book, “A Pardeshi in Paradise.”
As we commemorate the 15th Anniversary of Bhutaneseliterature.com, we also reflect on its evolution. What was once a digital platform to preserve the flame of Bhutanese literary culture has now blossomed into a vital space for cultural conservation and intellectual discourse. It has served as a conduit for dispersed lives, a platform for deliberation and conversation, and a medium for artistic expression. As we peer into the future, we pledge to expand this heritage, nurture new voices, and embrace the transformative potential of digital interaction to reach broader audiences.
We dedicate this special issue to Dr. Rizal’s memory in tribute to his important contributions to our community. His scholarly rigour, reflective literary creations, and passionate advocacy have not only enriched the pages of our history but also reinforced the role of literature in shaping societal values and personal growth. His loss is felt deeply, yet his contributions continue to inspire us.
At this most difficult time, we express our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members and pray to Almighty God for bestowing upon you all the strength to overcome this irreparable loss. May the departed soul find swift passage to a heavenly abode. We will miss you terribly, Dr. Rizal, but you will always remain in our hearts and memories. More precisely, you will always be smiling—as you always did—surrounded by the vast legacy of letters you have left with us. The best honour to Dr Govinda Rizal will be to continue weaving the rich threads of our narratives together, building on the foundation he helped strengthen.
May this issue be a place of remembrance, hope and inspiration as we, the Bhutanese diaspora, continue to navigate our journeys in the vast landscapes of resettlement and beyond. Happy 15th Anniversary to all of us at Bhutaneseliterature.com. Let us keep the spirit of inquiry and the love of our culture alive as we turn each page and begin new chapters together.
