The Press Club of Sikkim hosted the official launch of The Ethnic Quest – A Historical Study of the Native People of Sikkim, the latest book by educationist Dr. HP Chettri. The book explores the rich history, cultural heritage, and identity of various indigenous communities in Sikkim and Darjeeling, making it a significant contribution to contemporary historical discourse.
The event witnessed the presence of several distinguished guests, including Chief Guest Shri Arun Upreti, Minister, Guest of Honour KN Upreti, former minister, and prominent figures such as ex-MP Nakul Das Rai, ex-MLA NB Khatiwara, retired Director DT Lepcha, and members of the Nepali Sahitya Parishad. Scholars, social activists, politicians, and literature enthusiasts from across Sikkim, Kalimpong, and Rhenock also attended.
As part of the launch, a panel discussion was held on the topic of “Responsible writing in Literature.” The discussion featured insights from Shri Pravin Rai Jumeli (Panelist), Dr. Balaram Pandey (Panelist), and was moderated by Shri Prabin Khaling. Panelists emphasized the ethical responsibility of writers in documenting history and the need for accuracy in storytelling. The discussion also touched upon the political and social implications of literature, especially in regions with complex histories like Sikkim and Darjeeling. Panelists agreed that literature plays a crucial role in shaping public understanding of history and identity, making it vital for writers to remain objective and thorough in their research.
Dr. HP Chettri, in conversation with Dr. TB Chettri, the book’s reviewer, during the event, shared that The Ethnic Quest was the result of extensive effort and dedication.
He shared that his research involved studying over 300 books and articles, some of which were not easily accessible in Sikkim. He extensively referred to published theses and articles, including works from the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, to provide a comprehensive view of Sikkim’s historical and cultural landscape.
He clarified that his inspiration came from historical texts rather than individuals, ensuring that The Ethnic Quest was rooted in factual and scholarly research. Reflecting on his earlier work, he mentioned that writing his autobiography was a different experience, stating, “The book didn’t give me any energy nor did it make me feel anything. I had very little time when I wrote it.” His latest work, however, is the result of years of dedicated research and passion for historical preservation.
Chief Guest Arun Upreti lauded Dr. Chettri for his efforts in documenting the history of Sikkim’s diverse communities. He highlighted the importance of preserving historical narratives, especially in modern times when oral traditions and indigenous records are at risk of fading away. “Books like The Ethnic Quest serve as an important reminder of our roots and history,” Upreti stated, adding that such works inspire younger generations to take an interest in their cultural heritage.
Dr. Satyadeep Chettri, who was the observer of the event, emphasized the importance of cooperative historical narratives. “History is written from someone’s perspective, and every history is right in its own way. Instead of competing, we must focus on cooperation in preserving and understanding our past,” he remarked. His statement resonated with the audience, particularly in light of ongoing discussions about the historical relationship between Sikkim and Darjeeling.
This is Dr. HP Chettri’s third book and the second to be launched by the Press Club of Sikkim, following his autobiography. The release of The Ethnic Quest is being widely recognized as an important addition to the historical and cultural discourse surrounding Sikkim and Darjeeling.
The event concluded with a sense of appreciation for literature’s role in preserving history. As debates on the merger of Sikkim and Darjeeling continue, The Ethnic Quest is expected to serve as a valuable resource for researchers, academicians, and history enthusiasts. The book not only provides insights into the past but also reinforces the importance of written documentation in shaping the future of Sikkim’s cultural identity.
