DENVER LAUNCH OF AANG SHERPA & THE OCEAN OF HEIGHTS : A NOVEL
Saturday, 14 June, 2024
11: am -12:30 reception : Refreshments and Lunch
12:30 -2:30 Book Launch ceremony and Book signing
Aang Sherpa & the Ocean of Heights : A Novel
by Hiranya Bhojpure
Translated from the Nepali by Bhuwan Thapaliya
ISBN: 978-81-986271-6-2, Nirala, 2025 PP. 174
Aang Sherpa is a highly anticipated novel by the esteemed Nepalese writer and folk singer, Bhojpure… a landmark work of Nepalese literature—lyrical, raw, and deeply human.
—Yuyutsu Sharma, Himalayan Poet, author of Annapurna Poems
Aang Sherpa is a landmark novel by celebrated Nepalese writer and folk singer Hiranya Bhojpure, now available in English for the first time. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Ama Dablam and Everest, it offers a rare and moving portrayal of high-altitude mountaineering from the Sherpa perspective—exploring the profound emotional and physical toll of guiding climbers through some of the world’s most perilous terrain.
Through lyrical prose and a richly textured narrative, Bhojpure traces the life of a Sherpa climber as he navigates the treacherous peaks of the Himalayas and, later, a quiet yet complex migration to Australia. The novel delves deep into the Sherpa psyche, bringing to life a vivid character marked by idiosyncrasies, raw desires, and moments of vulnerability during arduous treks—all set against a backdrop of the increasing commercialization of one of the most sacred places on earth. The book pays homage to the silent strength of the Sherpa people—their resilience, sacrifices, and enduring ties to both land and tradition.
Drawing from his own experience at Nepal’s Ministry of Tourism, where he helped launch the first “Visit Nepal” campaign, Bhojpure weaves a story that bridges cultural heritage with personal transformation. Beautifully translated by Nepalese poet Bhuwan Thapaliya, Aang Sherpa transcends linguistic and geographic boundaries to deliver a universal tale of endurance, identity, and belonging.
“It is like entering a world that is foreign, alluring and bold, like climbing an Everest of the mind while reading a prose poem celebrating the quiet triumph of the imagination."
—Robert Scotto, Baruch College, New York, Author of Imagined Secrets
“Aang Sherpa and the Ocean of Heights is powerfully evocative of the awe and deep mystery of the Himalayan high mountains.”
— David Austell, Associate Provost and Executive Director, International Students and Scholars Office, (Retired) Columbia University & Author, The Tin Man
“An epic journey…Aang Sherpa documents his climb to the greatest of heights overcoming existential dilemmas and reaching the summit.”
—Robert Whelan, Poet Laureate of Rockport
Hiranya Bhojpure is a celebrated Nepali writer, lyricist, and cultural contributor. Born in Deurali, Bhojpur, he spent his early life in the remote eastern hills of Nepal. His creative journey began with poetry, culminating in his first complete work, Imagination in Makwanpurgadhi. He officially debuted as a published author with the short story Chitra-Charitra in Patrika-Aarti.
A versatile writer, Hiranya has published more than a dozen books across genres, including poetry, short stories, essays, children’s literature, and novels. His notable works include the short story collections Around the Chaubata, Janghaharu, Colors, and Musukka Ma; and the novel Sagarmatha Bhanda Maathi. He has also authored children's books, including Mero Mutu Mero Mato.
An active member of the influential music movement Lekali Group, he edited Lekali's Sangeet Yatra and has written over 150 songs—more than 100 of which have been recorded and released. His musical portfolio includes albums such as Ek Anjuli Gham, Situka Soorharu, Paryatan Dohori Geet, and the double album Cheli Timi Chanakho Ban, featuring collaborations with acclaimed artists like Situ Bhojpure, Urmila Bhojpure, and Bulu Mukarung.
With a deep affection for language, melody, and the subtleties of everyday life, Hiranya’s work resonates with emotional depth and cultural richness.
His novel Aang Sherpa marks yet another milestone in his ever-evolving creative journey.
Bhuwan Thapaliya is a poet and economist based in Kathmandu, Nepal. He is the author of five poetry collections, including Safa Tempo (Nirala, New Delhi), and his work has appeared in numerous international journals and anthologies. His poetry has been featured in global initiatives such as Stanford University’s Life in Quarantine and the UK’s Poetry and Covid project. Thapaliya has presented his work at literary events across Asia, the U.S., and beyond.
“In Aang Sherpa, he brings to life the spirit, resilience, and silent struggles of the Sherpa people with striking clarity and tenderness”
— Kalpana Maharjan, Mount Everest Climber
“An impressive and remarkably accurate account of the ascent and descent of Mount Everest!”
— Moni Mulepati Sherpa & Pem Dorje, Everest Climbers
“A profound novel by the renowned singer and literary figure Hiranya Dai.”
— Karma Sherpa, Sherpa House Restaurant and Research & Cultural Center, Colorado.
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