Gopal Prasad Rimal (1917–1973) was a visionary poet, dramatist, and political activist, hailed as the first modernist poet of Nepal. He introduced free verse (muktak chhanda) into Nepali literature, breaking away from the traditional Sanskrit-influenced metrical poetry and laying the foundation for modern poetic expression in Nepal.

Rimal’s bold literary innovations and political engagement made him a symbol of rebellion, freedom, and poetic revolution.

Biographical Overview

• Full Name: Gopal Prasad Rimal

• Born: May 10, 1917 (27 Baisakh 1974 BS), Kathmandu, Nepal

• Died: October 24, 1973 (7 Kartik 2030 BS), Kathmandu

• Profession: Poet, playwright, activist

• Language: Nepali

Rimal came of age during a time of political suppression under the Rana regime, and his works often reflect a passion for liberty, justice, and self-expression.

Literary Contributions

 Innovator of Free Verse (Muktak Chhanda)

• Rimal was the first Nepali poet to write poetry in free verse, breaking away from the rigid classical meters.

• His poems are known for:

  • Emotional intensity

  • Imagery rooted in daily life

  • Political undertones

  • Minimalist and accessible language

Themes in His Work:

• Freedom and national consciousness

• Romanticism and emotional struggle

• Existential thought and individual dignity

• Revolution and social injustice

Notable Works by Gopal Prasad Rimal

His poetry was concise, emotionally rich, and politically charged, appealing to both intellectuals and the common reader.

Contribution to Drama and Theatre

Rimal also wrote political plays, often staged in secret due to censorship under the Rana regime.

• Focused on civic awakening and resistance

• Promoted youth involvement in politics and culture

• Helped shape modern Nepali theatre

Political Activism and Social Role

• Active in the anti-Rana democratic movement of the 1940s

• Believed that literature must serve society and inspire change

• Was imprisoned and mentally tortured, which later impacted his mental health

• Despite personal struggles, his legacy became a beacon of courage and poetic rebellion

Recognition and Honors

• Recognized posthumously as one of Nepal’s most significant literary revolutionaries

• His works are taught in Nepali language and literature curricula

• Cited by poets like Bhupi Sherchan, Madan Mani Dixit, and Lekhnath Paudyal as a transformative influence

• Statues, schools, and literary awards named in his honor

Interesting Facts About Gopal Prasad Rimal

• Composed many of his most iconic poems in his twenties

• Never formally affiliated with any political party, but was respected by leaders across ideologies

• Experienced schizophrenia in his later years, leading to institutionalization and seclusion

• Despite mental illness, many of his late poems still displayed linguistic brilliance and emotional clarity

Death and Legacy

• Died: October 24, 1973, after a long period of illness

• Remembered annually during Baisakh 27 as Rimal Remembrance Day

• His free verse poetry inspired generations of poets, including Abhi Subedi, Yuyutsu Sharma, and Ramesh Kshitij

Conclusion: Why Gopal Prasad Rimal Matters

Gopal Prasad Rimal is the father of modern Nepali free verse poetry, whose literary defiance transformed Nepali poetry from ornamental to organic, from elitist to expressive. His voice still echoes through the hills of Nepal in every poem of protest, love, and liberation.

For students, scholars, and lovers of literature, Rimal’s works offer a gateway into the heart of Nepal’s poetic soul—a soul that dared to speak freely, even when silenced by tyranny.