KATHMANDU: Former President Bidya Devi Bhandari visited Bara on Sunday as part of her Madhesh Province tour, attending a program organized by the Madan Bhandari Foundation.

Before the program, Bhandari visited the Gadhimai temple. Speaking at the event, she expressed surprise and delight at the local committee’s initiative.

“We had celebrated his 74th birth anniversary in Kathmandu and planned to take discussions about Madan Bhandari to the younger generation,” she said, urging students and youth to pursue studies freely while learning about their country.

The event was attended by UML leaders including Politburo member Purushottam Paudel and hundreds of party cadres, despite leadership directives not to participate in Bhandari’s programs.

During the program, four individuals recently recruited to government service via the Public Service Commission were honored.

Bhandari also emphasized the need for local leaders to prioritize education and health and work for all-round development.

On Saturday, UML cadres gave Bhandari a grand welcome at Simara Airport, garlanding her with a 55-kg flower garland.

She was received by senior UML officials including Mukunda Neupane, Jayaprakash Tharu, and Kedar Neupane.

Bhandari’s visit highlights her ongoing engagement with youth and local leaders in Madhesh Province.