KATHMANDU: The 67th memorial day of renowned Nepali poet Laxmi Prasad Devkota is being observed today with various programs. According to Nepal Academy council member Nabin Abhilashi, this is the first time the academy is officially observing the poet’s memorial day.
A seminar titled ‘Mahakavi Devkota Myth and Reality’ is scheduled for this afternoon at the Devkota Museum in Maitidevi. During the event, the poet’s son, Padma Devkota, will present a memorial paper, while Mahadev Awasthi will present a review paper.
Born on Nov. 12, 1909, in Dilli Bazar, Kathmandu, Devkota passed away on Sept. 14, 1959. Beginning his literary journey at the age of 10, he contributed over 100 works to Nepali literature. He is credited with introducing modern epic writing and pioneering the romantic-progressive movement in Nepali poetry.
His work ‘Muna Madan’ remains the highest-selling book in the Nepali language. Known for his extraordinary speed and creativity, he famously wrote the epic ‘Shakuntala’ in three months, ‘Sulochana’ in 10 days, and the long poem ‘Kunjini’ in a single day.
During his tenure as Minister of Education and Autonomous Governance in 1959, Devkota made Nepali language a compulsory subject across the country. He also played an active role in the establishment of the Nepal Academy. Through his translations of foreign essays and participation in international literary conferences, he significantly contributed to promoting Nepali literature on the global stage.
