Literature: 'Mirror to society'

BY AMAR RAJ NAHARKI,Tanahun, Apr. 16: The Gandaki Literary Foundation Tanahun has honoured two distinguished littérateurs for their outstanding contributions to literature, language and culture. The awards were presented on Wednesday in Damauli under the motto, ‘Promotion of language, literature, and culture; literary awakening is our mission.’

This year, the Foundation honoured literary scholar and theorist Prof. Dr. Nirmal Mani Adhikari with the ‘Gandaki Literary Award-2026’ and also presented a special honour to poet, lyricist, and former chairperson of the Foundation, Sagar Udas. Prof. Dr. Adhikari received the Gandaki Literary Award along with a cash prize of Rs. 10,000. Mayor of Byas Municipality, Baikuntha Neupane, Foundation Chairman Gau Kumari Neupane, and senior literary figure Kashinath Neupane jointly presented the certificate of appreciation and draped him with a ceremonial shawl.

Addressing the programme, Chief Guest and Mayor of Byas Municipality, Neupane, stated that honouring littérateurs is, in fact, honouring society. He said, “Literature and art are mirrors of society. The Gandaki Literary Foundation’s initiative to promote literary awakening at the beginning of the New Year by recognising creators is highly commendable.” Foundation Chairman Neupane said that the organisation had long played an active role in sustaining literary activities in Tanahun, as well as preserving and promoting local talents.

Upon receiving the honour, Prof. Dr. Adhikari and creator Udas expressed that the recognition has provided them with renewed energy for their creative work. The Foundation has been honouring distinguished creators in this manner every year.