Babarsingh-Devkumari Thapa Memorial Trust Announces 2082 Awards

Biratnagar. The Babarsingh-Devkumari Thapa Memorial Trust has announced the recipients of the 2082 'Devkumari Thapa Memorial Award' and 'Babarsingh Thapa Memorial Award'.

The Trust made the names of this year's honorees public on Wednesday. According to the Trust, the 2082 'Devkumari Thapa Memorial Award' will be presented to senior poet Gyan Udas. The award, which includes a cash prize of 51,000 rupees and a citation, recognizes Udas's contributions to literary practice and creation, which have been active since 2018.

Poet Udas has published seven poetry collections, including 'Kun Bes?', 'Hami Bus Parkhirahachhau- Bus', 'Manka Kura', 'Gyan Udas Ka Kabita', 'Mero Harayeko Kabita', 'Yasto Lagchha', and 'Khali Sarangi'.

Established in 2068, this award has previously honored distinguished personalities such as Indra Bahadur Rai, Madan Mani Dixit, Satya Mohan Joshi, Bairagi Kainla, and Mahabir Pun.

Similarly, the 2082 'Babarsingh Thapa Memorial Award' will be presented to the renowned film director, writer, media personality, and social activist Sangeeta Shrestha. This award includes a cash prize of 25,000 rupees and a citation.

Shrestha has directed the feature film 'Shrestha Katha Kathmandu Ko' and the short film 'Katha Premka', in addition to directing over 70 music videos. Her novel 'Kathamai Aljhiyeka Prem' is also highly acclaimed.

Since its inception in 2060, the Babarsingh Thapa Memorial Award has been presented to 20 individuals, including Dr. Ram Bahadur Thapa, Momila, Dhirendra Premarshi, and Pramod Pradhan, as well as two organizations.

The Trust annually honors practitioners in various fields in memory of Babarsingh Thapa and Devkumari Thapa, who made Biratnagar their base for contributions to literature and social service. The awards will be presented to the honorees at a special ceremony scheduled for Baisakh 5.