Prof. Suvarna Shakya Honoured for Contribution to Nepal Bhasa
Prof. Suvarna Shakya — the first chairperson of the Nepal Sambat Nhuda Ceremony Committee, educator, Buddhist scholar, and writer — has been honoured for his remarkable contribution to the promotion of Nepal Bhasa.
Recognizing his lifelong efforts to uplift Nepal Bhasa, a total of 30 organizations, including Neva: Daya Dabu, Nepal Bhasa Academy, Nepal Sambat National Preservation Society, and the Nepal Sambat Nhuda National Ceremony Committee–1145, jointly honoured Prof. Shakya on Sunday by presenting him with Sagun and a ceremonial scarf (Feta). The honour was presented by social worker, senior storyteller, and educator Hitkarveer Singh Kansakar.
Contributions to Education and Language
Kansakar recalled that he had personally suggested introducing Nepal Bhasa classes at Durbar High School during the Panchayat regime, where Prof. Shakya later became involved in teaching.
Known as a principal of Durbar High School, Prof. Shakya was not only an educator but also a playwright of street dramas (Dabu Pyakhan) and even acted in the plays himself. He has published more than three dozen works.
Senior rights activist and writer Malla K. Sundar highlighted Prof. Shakya’s multifaceted personality and lifelong dedication to literature and social causes.
Symbol of the Nepal Bhasa Movement
Rajendra Shrestha, Chairperson of Nepal Sambat Nhuda Ceremony Committee–1145, stated that the program was designed to honour Prof. Shakya as a symbol of the Nepal Bhasa movement for his dedication to language and literature.
Linguist Sadar Kasa also spoke about Shakya’s significant contributions.
Honouree’s Remarks
Expressing his happiness, Prof. Shakya said that this recognition brought to light a truth he had kept hidden since 2013 B.S.
During the ceremony, Buddhist hymns and songs composed by Prof. Shakya were also presented, adding a spiritual touch to the program.
