Shillong: Shillong marked the 212th birth anniversary of Bhanu Bhakta Acharya on Sunday. Fans gathered at the Babu Mani Singh Gurung Auditorium inside Gorkha Pathshala Higher Secondary School. The event drew a large, rowdy crowd. Chief Electoral Officer Dr. BDR Tiwari served as chief guest. Lady Keane College principal AM Shangpliang attended as the guest of honor.
Speakers touted the poet as a cultural icon. They focused on his immense impact on Nepali literature. Born July 13, 1813, Acharya eventually moved to Varanasi to hone his craft. He earned the title Aadikavi, or first poet of Nepal, by writing verse in the common Nepali tongue. His work paved the way for future writers.
Acharya is best known for his translation of the Ramayana into Nepali, marking the first time Sanskrit literature made that jump. His other notable works include Kantipuri Nagari, Ek Man Chitta Lagai Chakari Garya, Khwamit Yas Giridhaari Le, Baalaaji Dekhyan, Ma Bhanubhakta, Roj Roj Darshan Paunchhu, Prashnottar Mala, Bhakta Maala and Ram Gita. Attendees noted that his work "continues to inspire generations" of readers and writers alike.
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