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Kohima — The Gorkha Sahitya Kala Sanstha Kohima (GSKSK) celebrated the 209th birth anniversary of Bhanubhakta Acharya (Bhanu Jayanti), led by Gorkha Public Panchayat Kohima (GPPK) and supported by Gorkha NGOs, clubs and Jatiya Sansthas, at multi-utility hall, GPPK complex, Kohima, on Thursday evening.
Dr. Tseilhoutuo (Ato) Rhutso, MLA, representing 9th Kohima Town AC, who addressed the event, expressed delight to participate in the birth anniversary celebration of Adi Kabi Bhanubhakta Acharya, a renowned writer, poet, and translator.
Acharya is widely recognised as the first poet in the Nepali language, earning him the title of "Aadikabi. He was also the first to translate the epic Ramayana from Sanskrit to Nepali, Rhutso said.
Underscoring the need to uphold the social services of late Acharya who contributed immensely to the community, he reminded that "you are remembered only when you give."
He highlighted that the Gorkha people of Kohima district have a history of selfless sacrifice for the country and added that the history of Gorkha settlers in Nagaland, particularly Kohima, dates back nearly two centuries.
Rhutso also shared on the similarities between the Gorkhas and Nagas in terms of racial lineage, Mongoloid heritage, food habits, ancestral rituals, simplicity, bravery, modesty, honesty, trustworthiness, faithfulness, and hardworking nature.
Kohima, being the headquarters of the Naga Hills, attracted a significant number of Gorkhas who engaged in various works and gradually integrated with the local communities, he said.
Over time, cross-cultural marriages and settlements in different parts of Kohima became common, including retired armed personnel who chose to reside in the region, he added.
As the Gorkha community grew in number, two distinct Gorkha villages called Chandmari and Aradhura (now colonies) were established prior to the World War II, with most Gorkhas concentrated in these areas, he narrated.
According to Rhutso, the Gorkhas played a crucial role in shaping and developing Kohima township before the war.
During the conflict, they stood alongside the Angami people, enduring hardships, destruction, and devastation while their loyalty and dedication in rebuilding the township led to the government of Nagaland recognising them as Indigenous non-Naga local residents in 1974, he said.
He further apprised how in 2004, during the quasquicentennial year celebration of Kohima township, the Gorkhas were granted the privilege to partake and celebrate as "Ramailo Dasai" alongside other Naga tribes.
Rhutso concluded by expressing that the enduring bond between the Gorkha and Naga communities will continue to thrive.
A brief life sketch of Acharya was given by Gyatri Devi, former president of GPPK during the event.
Highlights of the programme included dance and song presentations and prize distribution to the students who secured different positions in painting and essay competitions and evening extravaganza.
During the occasion, Sudha Das academic excellence award was conferred on Pabitra Dhakal, who secured 92% in the HSLC 2023 from Little Flower HSS Kohima.
The programme was led by Yommi Rai, while, GSKSK president Chandra Kumar Lama delivered the welcome address.
The Gorkha Students' Union Chümoukedima District (GSUCD) celebrated Bhanu Jayanti at CTC hall, Chümoukedima.
Among the special invitees included Dr. Andrew Ahoto Sema, national general secretary, National People's Party; Zhato Kimho, president of Chakhroma Public Organisation and Tezu Pradhan, head GB of Singrijan village, an update stated.
Dr. Andrew Ahoto, the chief guest of the event, encouraged the youth to embrace technology while coexisting with existing legacy and heritage. He also reminded that a nation prospers when its youth is empowered and strong.
Guest of honour Zhato Kimho encouraged the Gorkha community to be united and urged them to build relationships with other communities.
Tezu Pradhan in his address highlighted the unwavering dedication and perseverance of Bhanu Bhakta Acharya towards the Nepali language.
President of GSUCD, Jacob Sundas, expressed gratitude to all the participants and attendees for joining in the celebration.