Special Guest Sanjay Rai, Retired Director Department of Sericulture Government of Nagaland speaking at 211th Bhanu Jayanti Celebration at Town Hall, Mokokchung on July 13.
Morung Express News
Mokokchung | July 13
The Gorkha Students' Union Mokokchung (GSUM) on Sunday celebrated the 211th Bhanu Jayanti at the Town Hall, paying homage to Adikavi Bhanu Bhakta Acharya, the celebrated Nepali poet known for translating the Ramayana into Nepali and uniting the Gorkha community through his literary contributions.
The event was graced by Sanjay Rai, retired Director of the Department of Sericulture, Government of Nagaland, as the special guest, and John Thakuri, President of the All Nagaland Gorkha Students' Union, as the guest of honour. Anisha Thapa, Literary Secretary of GSUM, chaired the programme.
In his address, Sanjay Rai described Bhanu Bhakta Acharya as a selfless figure dedicated to the service of society. He emphasised the poet’s contribution in promoting literary and cultural excellence among the youth and urged attendees to preserve the Nepali language while practising respect and discipline in their lives. Addressing students, Rai encouraged academic achievers to remain consistent and strive harder.
Speaking as guest of honour, John Thakuri highlighted that Gorkhas have been in India for over 200 years, with their contributions recognised by the Government of India. Thakuri lamented that many from the community feel hesitant to embrace their identity and urged them to take pride in being Gorkhas and in the status of Nepali as a recognised language.
Thakuri also called on the youth to develop visionary leadership and pointed out gender gaps in academic performance, noting that girls are faring better than boys. He urged boys to work harder and challenged all individuals to reflect on what they can contribute to the progress of the Gorkha community, encouraging active participation in community service.
The programme featured an opening song, welcome address, poem recitation, felicitation of HSLC and HSSLC achievers, prize distribution, and cultural performances. Dr Francis Rai, General Secretary of GSUM, delivered the vote of thanks.
The formal event was followed by a cultural session featuring traditional dances, songs, and vibrant performances, concluding with refreshments and a celebration of the community’s rich heritage.
