Kathmandu: President Ramchandra Paudel has highlighted the universal appeal of Bhanubhakta Acharya, emphasizing that he is a poet cherished by speakers of all languages, not just Nepali. During the 212th Bhanu Jayanti, a ceremony organized by the Nepal Academy and the Bhanu Sahitya Uddyan at Sheetal Niwas, President Paudel underscored the importance of drawing inspiration from Bhanubhakta to create literature in native languages, fostering a society enriched with varied languages and literature.
According to National News Agency Nepal, President Paudel advocated for the transformation of Chundiramgha into a literary pilgrimage site, aiming to promote a shared cultural environment. He called for unity among creators of the Nepali language and other languages in Nepal around Bhanubhakta to strengthen the country’s cultural fabric. He stressed the development of Bhanubhakta’s birthplace, Chundiramgha, as a must-visit site for those wishing to grasp Nepali culture, to boost tourism. The President also proposed the development of Bhanu Uddyan as a central hub of Nepali culture, reflecting the cultural centers of Nepal’s seven provinces as Saptadhama.
President Paudel pointed out that Bhanubhakta’s era marked the establishment of Nepali nationality, with warriors expanding to the Tishta River in the east and Kangada in the west. During the event, Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Badri Prasad Pandey, highlighted the historical role of the Ramayan in fostering unity among Nepali speakers, thanks to ancient poets’ contributions.
Chancellor of the Nepal Academy, Bhupal Rai, announced plans to implement a similar initiative within the academy, uniting language speakers akin to the project in Tanahun. Efforts are underway to secure resources for this purpose. Former Vice Chancellor of the Nepal Academy, Bairagi Kainla, remarked that the ancient poet’s works aimed for public welfare align with the ideals of the modern welfare state. The event also featured poetry recitations by ten poets, including Dr. Navaraj Lamsal and Dhirendra Premarshi, celebrating Bhanubhakta Acharya and the Ramayana.