The news of Pradip Giri's passing has left me with an overwhelming sense of loss. He was not just a political idol to me, but a guiding light whose wisdom and insights shaped my understanding of society and the world. His multifaceted persona as a thinker, intellectual, philosopher, and political think tank of Nepal made him a true beacon of knowledge.
What set Pradip Giri apart was his unique approach to explaining complex ideas. He had a remarkable ability to weave together stories, Urdu Shayari, and poems that added depth and meaning to any event, concept, or notion he discussed. His narratives had an uncanny way of connecting the dots, revealing the profound layers behind seemingly ordinary occurrences.
One of the reasons I held Pradip Giri in such high regard was his unassuming nature. In a world often driven by materialism and ego, he remained refreshingly simple and grounded. Much like a Sadhu/Sant, he focused on the essence of ideas and the well-being of people, rather than pursuing fleeting gains. His humility and relatability were truly inspiring.
Among the many reasons, for me, the main reason to admire him the most is the issues he raised throughout his political career. He used to assert, "Nepal is a village and agriculture-based country; it possesses its own unique beauty. Unfortunately, over the past 50 years, we political leaders have been solely focused on replacing (or upgrading) our picturesque villages with crowded cities, all while adhering to Western development ideals. Consequently, we find ourselves dismantling our culture, agriculture, environment, and the very fabric of our villages in the name of progress. This approach is neither beneficial nor advisable; instead, we must adopt a new and alternative developmental path. Our objective should not be to replace villages with cities, but rather to transform congested cities into idyllic villages, complete with environmentally friendly infrastructure. Our commitment should be to empower and enrich our villages by providing eco-friendly amenities. Above all, we must refrain from erasing our villages and time-honored traditions, for they constitute our genuine identity.
As I come to terms with the void left by his departure, I find myself grappling with the reality that there may never be another political figure quite like him. Pradip Giri was not just an ideal; he was a mentor, a source of profound knowledge, and a reminder of the importance of staying true to one's values. While his physical presence may be gone, his teachings and insights will continue to shape my perspective, reminding me to seek depth and connection in all aspects of life.
