Folk cultures, literature ensure robust nat'l unity, social harmony, says President

Kathmandu, July 16: President Ramchandra Paudel has said that folk cultures and literary world have contributed to further strengthening our national unity and social harmony.     

At a programme organized at the President House today on the 100th birth anniversary of Janakavikeshari Dharmaraj Thapa, President Paudel said the contributions of academicians and litterateurs are vital for uplifting Nepal's glory.     

"Folk artists and folk culturists are the nation's treasures. The consciousness of folk litterateurs, culture experts and artists is of the nation. The achievements of such creations are higher than that of the political awareness," according to the President.     

Saying that Nepal is an ethnically, linguistically, culturally and geographically diverse country, President Paudel viewed unity among diversity, and socio-cultural solidarity, tolerance and harmony are our characteristics.     

"Our language, culture, literature, history and traditions are invaluable treasures," President Paudel shared.     

On the occasion, President Paudel praised the contributions of poet Dharmaraj Thapa in Nepal's literary field and said that Thapa's contributions to the study, research, protection and promotion of Nepali folk literature are unforgettable.     

Also speaking at the event, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Badri Prasad Pandey said Nepal's culture is the heart of the Nepali society and added that Dharmaraj Thapa's songs have immensely promoted Nepali language and folk culture across the globe.     

Dharmaraj Thapa's songs have narrated the then agriculture-based economy and Nepali nationalism, Minister Pandey stated.     

Prof Dr Abhi Subedi, senior literary figure Bairagi Kainla and culture expert Dr Jagaman Gurung also shared their views stating that Dharmaraj Thapa made immense contributions to exploration and promotion of Nepali folk songs and folk literature.     

During the programme, President Paudel offered the Dharmaraj Sabitri Thapa Folk Culture Literary Prize 2080 to Bairagi Kainla. The prize carries a purse of Rs 50,000.     

Likewise, Dharmaraj Sabitri Thapa Folk Song Music Prize was given away to LP Joshi. (RSS)