In the early 1990s, Bhutan carried out a little-known campaign of ethnic cleansing that expelled more than 100,000 ethnic Nepalis from the country. Among those forced into exile was seven-year-old Bhawani and his family. Born hearing, Bhawani lost his hearing as a child, experiencing profound isolation, stigma, and barriers to communication. Life changed dramatically in the refugee camps of Nepal when Nepali Sign Language classes were introduced, allowing Deaf refugees to communicate with one another and build a vibrant community for the first time.

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After spending nearly two decades in refugee camps, Bhawani's family was resettled in Concord, New Hampshire. There, he encountered new challenges when local resettlement services were not prepared to meet the needs of Deaf refugees. Determined to create solutions, Bhawani learned American Sign Language, taught it to others, and became an American Sign Language–to–Nepali Sign Language interpreter. His work helped Deaf Bhutanese refugees communicate with doctors, caseworkers, and service providers, improving access to essential resources and support.​

 

Today, Bhawani is recognized as a leading voice within the Deaf Bhutanese-American community. Through advocacy, education, and community engagement, he works to expand communication access, promote inclusion, and ensure that Deaf refugees are seen, heard, and supported.

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In Down the Braided River, Bhawani shares his remarkable journey of displacement, disability, resilience, and belonging. Set against a global refugee crisis affecting nearly 130 million forcibly displaced and stateless people worldwide, his memoir shines a light on one of the most overlooked populations: refugees with disabilities. Told with honesty, dignity, and quiet humor, his story offers a powerful testament to the strength of community and the human capacity to overcome extraordinary obstacles.