About the Book
Budhani, written by Prawin Adhikari and translated by Indu Tharu, is a lyrical retelling of a Tharu folktale through the unusual perspective of a crow. The novel weaves themes of identity, empathy, feminism, and decolonization while reflecting on indigenous traditions, art, and storytelling practices. It reimagines folklore as living memory and cultural resistance rather than just part of myth.
On 20th August 2025, the David J. Rusk Library, in collaboration with the Writing Center of Thames International College, hosted a compelling book talk on Budhani, written by Prawin Adhikari and translated by Indu Tharu. The session marked the conclusion of the Book Burrow series, where students engaged in in-depth discussions on the book’s themes, interpretations, and cultural significance.
Written from the perspective of a crow named “Budhani”. The book explores themes on empathy, justice, and identity while addressing broader issues of capitalism, feminism, patriarchy, and decolonization. The conversation highlighted how the novel reimagines folktales and mythical stories, grounding them in Tharu cultural roots and challenging dominant narratives. Students also reflected on the role of translation and how it has a significant role as an act of preservation that keeps indigenous stories alive across generations.
The talk provided a space to reflect on how Budhani intertwines literature, folklore, and lived experiences to reclaim silenced voices and narratives. It offered participants a deeper understanding of how writing can serve as a medium of resistance, cultural survival, and decolonization.
