Bhanu Literary Park sparks metric poetic revival

By Amar Raj Naharki,Tanahun, May 3: The ‘Bhanu Literary Park’ being developed at Chundi Ramgha, the birthplace of Bhanubhakta Acharya, widely regarded as Nepal’s first poet, is expected to revitalise Nepal’s national literary pride and the fading tradition of metrical poetry.

Senior litterateur Prof. Dr. Basudev Tripathi, speaking to The Rising Nepal, said that the enduring popularity of Bhanubhakta’s works among the general public is largely due to their metrical structure. 

However, he stated that the practice of poetic metre (chhanda) is weakening among the younger generation. 

According to him, the park will not only serve as a memorial but also provide an institutional platform for promoting metre, poetry recitation, and literary practice. He described the initiative as a continuation and evolution of the literary exploration tradition initiated by Motiram Bhatta. 

“Bhanubhakta infused the metrical traditions of Sanskrit poetry into Nepali folk life, making them vibrant and accessible. It is now our responsibility to carry that tradition forward to the new generation,” he said.

The foundation stone of the park was laid on April 27 by President Ramchandra Paudel. With the formal commencement of construction, a renewed sense of enthusiasm has emerged in the historically significant area, which had long remained overlooked.

Chairperson of the Adikavi Bhanubhakta Birthplace Development Committee, Ram Kumar Shrestha, expressed his happiness that a long-held vision is finally taking shape. 

“This is not merely a physical structure, it is a centre of our identity and literary dignity. It will establish Chundi Ramgha as an international destination for tourism and scholarship,” he said.

Local journalist Rajesh Karki also stated that such a significant investment at the poet’s birthplace has instilled a sense of pride among residents and is expected to contribute to both tourism growth and economic development.According to Bhanu Municipality, there are plans to link the park with literary tourism. 

Deputy Mayor Uma Gotame said that the first phase of construction, with an estimated cost of Rs. 200 million, is expected to transform the outlook of Chundi Ramgha.