Cultural Protection Fund grantees Archive Nepal will launch पिन्डा (First), a groundbreaking compilation of Kusunda literature, on 21 February, Mother Tongue Language Day.
With only one native fluent speaker left, the Kusunda language is on the brink of extinction, so this initiative represents a significant step in preserving this invaluable cultural and linguistic heritage.
Supported by the British Council’s Cultural Protection Fund, in partnership with the UK Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, the project Safeguarding the Kusunda Language and Culture for Future Generations underscores Archive Nepal's commitment to revitalising the language and empowering youth to keep their heritage alive.
The book, पि न्डा (First), is a rich collection of creative writings by students who participated in advanced training courses led by researcher Uday Raj Aaley. Each piece is presented in both Kusunda and Nepali, making it accessible to a wider audience while staying true to its roots.
This event is a celebration of resilience and the enduring spirit of indigenous communities. It serves as a platform to discuss innovative strategies for safeguarding endangered languages, while fostering collaboration among experts, advocates, and volunteers.
Archive Nepal is a non-profit corporation whose mission is to encourage the understanding of Nepal’s rich history and culture by curating, digitising, and improving accessibility to digital resources.
Kamal Sen Kusunda
Kamala Sen who is 72 years old is the sole fluent native speaker of the Kusunda language, a language isolate nearing extinction. She is dedicated to reviving the language by speaking, archiving, and teaching it to younger generations, playing a vital role in preserving this unique cultural heritage.
She was born in Dang District, Nepal and grew up speaking Kusunda with her mother, Puni Thakuri, and her older sister, the late Gyani Maiya Sen-Kusunda. After her mother’s death in 1985, Kamala got married and moved to India where she lived for 10 years, during which her sister was mistakenly assumed to be the last Kusunda speaker.
Returning to Nepal, Kamala has worked tirelessly to safeguard Kusunda through teaching and collaboration with linguists. Her efforts ensure the survival of the language and inspire younger generations to reconnect with their cultural roots. Kamala’s dedication symbolises the resilience of indigenous communities in preserving their identity.
For more information on the project, visit https://www.archivenepal.org/projectbanraja or contact contact@archivenepal.org
