Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Badri Prasad Pandey, emphasized the importance of literature in uniquely showcasing society’s realities. Speaking at the award ceremony of the National Poetry Festival 2081, organized by the Nepal Academy on the occasion of its 67th anniversary, Minister Pandey stated that literature reflects societal truths, establishing writers as intangible cultural assets.
“Literature brings hope amid challenges and can contribute to the much-needed revival and awakening in society. B.P. Koirala once said that many practical people are not as pure as emotional ones, and writers represent both emotion and purity,” Pandey remarked.
The minister also stressed the need to continue the academy’s inclusive representation through its poetry festivals, highlighting Nepal’s cultural diversity in language, traditions, and attire. He further noted that writers must uphold integrity and guide society in the same direction.
Chancellor of the Nepal Academy, Bhupal Rai, underscored the importance of inclusivity and participation in a democratic system, which guides the academy’s work. He also shared insights into the academy’s ongoing efforts to preserve language, literature, and culture.
During the event, President Ram Chandra Paudel presented awards to the winners of the National Poetry Festival 2081. Honorees included Agr Aawaj, Anita Nyaupane, Anjan Pradeep, Chhabilal Kopila, Dilip Budhamagar, Rumani Kulung, Rupak ‘Jamra’ Ghalan, Regina Khalling, Sharmila Dulal, and Suman Sahayatri Yonghang.
Additionally, Academy Secretary Dr. Dhan Prasad Subedi and member of the Academic Council and festival coordinator, Baba Basnet, provided details on the academy’s initiatives for the advancement of language, literature, and culture.
