
New Delhi, July 14: The 212th National–Level Bhanu Jayanti was celebrated at Jautar Stadium, Soreng, yesterday, with the Chief Minister of Sikkim, Mr Prem Singh Tamang, gracing the occasion as the chief guest, accompanied by Madam Sarda Tamang.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said that the State Government’s vision of organising national–level events across different districts, rather than confining them to the State capital, is aimed at identifying, encouraging, and uplifting talented individuals from rural areas by providing them with opportunities to showcase their potential on national platforms. He remarked that such initiatives not only promote inclusive development but also ensure that the rich cultural and literary heritage of every district receives the recognition it deserves.
Paying rich tributes to Adikavi Bhanubhakta Acharya, the Chief Minister highlighted his unparalleled contributions to the development and enrichment of the Nepali language and his enduring influence on the Nepali-speaking community. He noted that Acharya’s literary works continue to inspire generations and remain an integral part of Nepali literature. As a mark of respect, the Chief Minister recited the celebrated poem Ghasi, emphasising its timeless message of dignity of labour, humility, and social responsibility.
The Chief Minister further observed that the people of Sikkim have consistently excelled in the fields of Nepali language, literature, art, and culture, making significant contributions at both the national and international levels. He reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to preserving and promoting the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of Sikkim through sustained support for writers, artists, scholars, and cultural institutions.
Acknowledging the historic efforts towards the constitutional recognition of the Nepali language, the Chief Minister paid tribute to former Chief Minister, Mr Nar Bahadur Bhandari and former Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha), Mrs Dil Kumari Bhandari, for their significant role in advocating for the inclusion of the Nepali language in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister announced the institution of the ‘Anubad Setu Award’, to be introduced from next year to promote translation, literary excellence, and the preservation of the Nepali language and literature. The annual award will carry a cash prize of ₹3 lakh and will honour one distinguished literary personality for outstanding contributions to literature.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister announced that the Bhanu Jayanti celebrations next year will be hosted in Pakyong district and urged the local administration and public representatives to begin preparations well in advance.
Earlier, the programme commenced with a welcome address by the organising committee, while a descendant of Adikavi Bhanubhakta Acharya highlighted the life, literary contributions, and enduring legacy of the revered poet.
The celebration featured a series of literary and cultural programmes, including Ramayan Path, folk dance performances, poetry recitation, debate, painting, and folk song competitions. Books were released on the occasion, literary personalities and organisations were felicitated for their contributions to Nepali language and literature, and a documentary showcasing the cultural heritage and developmental progress of Soreng district was screened.
Prior to the main programme, the Chief Minister offered khada, lit the ceremonial lamp, and paid floral tributes at the Bhanu Salik before participating in the traditional Shobha Yatra along with dignitaries and members of the public.
The programme was attended by ministers, legislators, senior government officials, literary personalities, representatives of various organisations, students, and members of the public.