Bangkok – Sahitya Man Thailand successfully concluded the 27th virtual episode of its regular literary initiative, ‘Aadarsha Divya Darpan’. Organized to mark World Mental Health Day, the virtual literary event was themed “Manbhitrako Mausam” (The Weather Within the Mind).
Serving as the chief guest, veteran poet, critic, and researcher Pramod Pradhan, who has contributed to Nepali language and literature for decades, shared his perspectives on modern technology and creative expression. He noted that while technological advancements have made everyday life easier, they have simultaneously posed significant challenges to genuine human creativity. He emphasized that the easy access to reading and writing resources through AI tools like ChatGPT risks diminishing natural hard work, imagination, and perseverance. Pradhan underscored the urgent need for parents, educational institutions, and governments to establish clear policies and regulatory frameworks governing the extent and use of such technologies.
Addressing mental health, Pradhan highlighted the importance of educating children about emotional well-being from an early age, organizing practical life skills training, fostering inclusive social environments to combat isolation, and reducing screen time to encourage open communication within families and communities.
Special guest Deepa Dhital, an experienced practitioner in the field of mental health, shared insights from her direct field experience. She noted that prolonged internal pain, anxiety, and fear of societal stigma often drive individuals to extreme despair and suicidal thoughts out of fear that speaking up might ruin their lives. Dhital emphasized that timely encouragement, empathetic support, and accessible pathways to simpler living can save lives. She reiterated that mental illness is not madness but a manageable condition akin to any regular illness, calling for continuous awareness programs, community-level discussions, and specialized consultations to change public mindsets.
Adding a literary flavor to the event, Bhim Lal Khanal from Thailand recited one poem and two ghazals.
The program was chaired by Om Prakash Neupane, President of Sahitya Man Thailand, and conducted by the organization’s secretary, Deepa Rana.
