Biography ‘Smritima Bhim Bahadur’ published

By A Staff Reporter, Kathmandu, June 22: The biography ‘Smritima Bhim Bahadur,’ detailing the life of Bhim Bahadur Shrestha, a prominent social activist involved in various social sectors such as education, irrigation, temple and pond construction in Taplejung, has been published.

 The book was launched during a ceremony organised by the Smriti Granth Publication Committee in the capital by former Chief Election Commissioner Surya Prasad Shrestha and House of Representatives members Sushila Shrestha and Liladevi Bokhim Limbu. 

Speaking at the book launching ceremony, former Chief Election Commissioner Surya Prasad Shrestha highlighted Bhim Bahadur Shrestha's significant role in establishing Bhanu School in Taplejung.

 He recounted how Bhim Bahadur travelled to Darjeeling to recruit teachers and how he ensured their salaries, raised funds for school buildings and organised relief efforts during famines.

 He emphasised that Bhim Bahadur's actions not only fostered education but also established him as a figure of great foresightedness in the community.

MP Sushila Shrestha acknowledged Bhim Bahadur's understanding of the importance of education. 

She said that since  2009 BS, his step-daughter Indrakumari (Krishna Laxmi) played a pivotal role in advancing both business and social services, serving as Taplejung's 

first photographer.

Reflecting on Bhim Bahadur's contributions, lawmaker Bokhim praised how his efforts paved the way for the emergence of leaders and educated individuals in Taplejung. 

Tanka Shrestha, the book’s editor, discussed Bhim Bahadur Shrestha's extensive work in social service and politics throughout his life, spanning from being a professional photographer in  2009 BS to holding various elected positions in subsequent years.

Former headmaster Tularam Gurung fondly remembered Bhim Bahadur appointing him as a school teacher, recalling the modest salary of Rs. 110 rupees. 

He dedicated 40 years to the education sector following this appointment.

Sharu Joshi, a founding member of Anter-Pusta Mahilabadi Mancha, praised Bhim Bahadur's dedication to education and social service, noting his encouragement of higher education and training. She highlighted Bhim Bahadur's lasting impact on contemporary and future generations.

The book, published eight years after his passing, contains contributions from a hundred individuals. 

Bhim Bahadur Shrestha’s contributions to irrigation and community development led residents to name an irrigation canal after him, calling it ‘Bhim Bahadur Kulo’.