September 15, 2001

Kathmandu: Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba released the “Dotyali Brihat Sabdakosh” or comprehensive dictionary of Dotyali language compiled by R. D. Prabhas and published by the Belu Bishwo Pratishthan at a function here today. The dictionary is the first of its kind in the language.

The dictionary contains 40,000 words of the language.

The dictionary also contains religious, cultural, social and historical aspects of the Dotelis riddles, proverbs, etc.

On the occasion, Mr Deuba said those who overlook their languages and culture will not be able to rise and all Nepalis should be proud of their language and culture.

The language is the mainstay of a nation and the present dictionary will significantly contribute to promoting the Doteli language, he further said.

The Prime Minister also honoured Dr Jayaraj Pant with a citation and a shawl in recognition of his contribution to the promotion of the Doteli language and literature.

Former Prime Minister and senior litterateur Lokendra Bahadur Chand spoke of the need to preserve the Doteli language since Doti is the cradle of the Nepali language.

The compiler of the dictionary said he had started the marathon task of compiling the dictionary 20 years ago.

Various other speakers including poet Madhav Ghimire, MP Tarinidutta Chataut and critic Dr Madhav Pokhrel also spoke at the function on the occasion.

Dictionary compiler Chataut, an ex-RSS representative, has 16 books to his credit.