Bhanubhakta Acharya's 210th Birth Anniversary
On July 15th, 2024, at 3:30 PM, the University Library at the University of North Bengal hosted a special lecture to honor the 210th birth anniversary of Kavi Bhanubhakta Acharya, an eminent Nepali poet and writer.
On July 15th, 2024, at 3:30 PM, the University Library at the University of North Bengal hosted a special lecture to honor the 210th birth anniversary of Kavi Bhanubhakta Acharya, an eminent Nepali poet and writer. The event highlighted Bhanubhakta's contributions to Nepali literature, especially in the Uttarbanga region.
The program commenced with an inaugural song themed around Bhanubhakta Acharya, performed by a group of talented library staff members, including Yangzee, Susmita, Manju, Sangeeta, and Anamika. Their melodic tribute set a reverent and celebratory tone for the event. Dr. Debasish Dutta, the Registrar (Offg.) of NBU, presided over the program, while Dr. Dilip Kumar Sarkar, the former Registrar of NBU, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In his address, Dr. Sarkar shared insightful reflections on Bhanubhakta Acharya's profound impact on Nepali literature. Drawing from his experiences during his stay in Darjeeling from 1985 to 1999, Dr. Sarkar observed the burgeoning literary scene in the region and lauded Bhanubhakta as a historical and intellectual poet who resonated deeply with the common person, cementing his status as an eminent literary figure.
The key speaker for the special lecture was Mr. M.P. Subba, a retired teacher and distinguished orator. Mr. Subba eloquently highlighted Bhanubhakta Acharya's remarkable contributions as a Nepali writer, poet, and translator. Widely regarded as the first poet in the Nepali language, Bhanubhakta earned the esteemed title of "Aadikavi," which translates to "the first poet." His most notable achievement was the translation of the epic Ramayana from Sanskrit to Nepali, making it accessible to the broader Nepali-speaking populace. Mr. Subba also expressed his poignant observation that the celebration of Bhanujayanti in Nepal does not receive the same enthusiastic recognition as it does in India. This remark underscored the need for greater appreciation and commemoration of Bhanubhakta's legacy in his homeland.
The event saw an attendance of nearly 60 individuals, including students, research scholars, faculty members, and library staff. Dr. Mandal, the Librarian, skillfully anchored and conducted the program, ensuring its smooth progression.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Shubranshu Kr. Mistri, expressing gratitude to all attendees and participants for making the event a memorable tribute to Bhanubhakta Acharya's enduring legacy. Following this, the program ended with a beautiful rendition of Rabindra Sangeet by Susmita. Her performance created a harmonious atmosphere that uniquely blended the legacies of Rabindranath and Bhanubhakta, providing a fitting and poignant conclusion to the event.