Photo Courtesy: nagalandpost
Kohima: Gorkha communities across Nagaland marked the 212th birth anniversary of Adikavi Bhanubhakta Acharya on July 13. Events took place in Chümoukedima, Dimapur, and Mokokchung. Celebrations honored the pioneer of Nepali literature, who earned his title by translating the Ramayana for the common people.
In Chümoukedima, the Gorkha Students' Union Chümoukedima District (GSUCD) held festivities at the Town Council Hall. Chief guest and former council chairman Thepfulhoutuo Shüya attended. Special invitee Watila Rashmi Subba and guest of honor Shibu Sunar joined the crowd. Performers showcased traditional culture. The Singrijan and Khopanala Youth Association executed a Khukuri Dance, while singer Suraj Bhujel performed. GSUCD president Ajay Thapa led the welcome. General secretary John Dornal Chettri chaired the session. Jacob Sundas delivered the closing vote of thanks.
A protest ran alongside the festivities. The GSUCD organized a solidarity gathering for a minor survivor of a recent sexual assault. Crowds demanded accountability. Participants held placards reading, "Silence Protects Abusers, Speak Up." Speakers argued that the ideals of the poet, including truth and compassion, demand a firm stand against child abuse.
Dimapur hosted multiple observances. The Dimapur Gorkha Union (DGU) and Gorkha Students' Union Dimapur (GSUD) led a joint program. They honored Rahul Chetri and three academic high-achievers: Jemimah Grace, Jason Rai, and Shristi Thapa. The groups held a two-minute silence for a student sexually assaulted on July 7 in Medziphema Ward 9. Additionally, the Gorkha Youth Club Dimapur (GYCD) met at Cornerstone College. President Sumit Sunar led the event.
Mokokchung held its own celebration at the Town Hall. Additional Deputy Commissioner Atsungba Walling addressed the guests. He praised the local history of coexistence between Gorkha and Ao communities. Walling stated, "The celebration reflected the spirit of a community built on mutual trust and unity." Ganesh Rai, managing director of Lotus English Boarding School in Dharan, Nepal, also spoke. The program honored academic toppers and awarded literary competition winners.
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