Literature, art, music, culture crucial for prosperity: President

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Sept. 2: President Ramchandra Paudel has said that the development of academic fields such as literature, art, music, and culture is as crucial as physical development for the prosperity of the nation. 

 Speaking at the prize distribution ceremony of the National Poetry Festival 2082, on Monday, the President said that Nepal is a common home to various languages, ethnicities, and diverse cultures.

President Paudel said, “Having the world’s highest peak, Sagarmatha, and other towering Himalayan ranges, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, the advocate of peace, and an independent nation that has never been colonised, Nepal must be introduced to the world, and the Nepal Academy holds an important role in this endeavour.”

The ceremonu was organised by Nepal Academy.

Stating that it is also the responsibility of the Nepal Academy to academically institutionalise the achievements gained through the long struggle and sacrifices of the Nepali people, he expressed confidence that the Academy is capable of fulfilling its duties efficiently and successfully.

President Paudel said, “Literature and society are complementary to each other. Literature is knowledge, values, culture, and life. The education, messages, awareness, thoughts, and reflections it provides are boundless. Therefore, language, literature, culture, and philosophy are essential in every person’s life.”

Highlighting that Nepal’s pride and identity lie in its languages, literatures, and cultures, given its unique geographical diversity and the presence of various ethnic groups, languages, cultures, and traditions, he added, “It is our collective duty to preserve, promote, and develop them."

He said the government should also always prioritise the development of language and literature, recognising and honouring talented individuals active in academic pursuits, who also contribute to history-making.

President Paudel congratulated all the poets who succeeded in being ranked among the top 10 in the National Poetry Festival 2082 and wished them continued progress in their creative journey. 

The President presented certificates of honour and awards to ten poets during the programme. 

Poets Abinash Bhattarai of Siraha, Karna Sanjay of Morang, Kishan Poudel of Makawanpur, Goma Shrestha of Lamjung, Chandramani Chapagain of Nawalparasi, Tulsi KC of Rukum West, Mirma (Rama Subedi) of Makawanpur, Samuel Koirala of Sunsari, Sandhya Maharjan of Lalitpur, and Sirjan Abiral of Chitwan were presented the awards.