KATHMANDU: Speaker Dol Prasad Aryal has said Bhanubhakta Acharya, the pioneer poet of the Nepali language, literature and culture, was not just a poet but a voice of Nepali soul.

During his address to a programme organised by the Bhanu Pratishthan at Nepal Academy today, marking the 213th birth anniversary of the legendary poet, the Speaker called Bhanubhakta a national luminary, a symbol of Nepali literary consciousness and a prominent representative of the people.

He said the Adikavi (Pioneer Poet) laid the foundation of Nepali literary consciousness and a played a pivotal role in shaping the identity of the Nepali language.

“He proved that literature is not merely the concern of intellectual community, but something that lies in the hearts of the people,” the Speaker said.

According to him, Bhanubhakta introduced public to religion, philosophy, policies and ideology by translating the Ramayana into Nepali language.

“The writings of the pioneer poet brought the Nepali language into every household, raised awareness among the people, and strengthened our cultural unity,” he added.

The Nepali language has served as a unifying force not only within Nepal but also among all Nepalis living abroad. Bhanubhakta gave us the Ramayana, and through it, Nepali literature gained an epic that continues to inspire generations to this day,” he said.

The Speaker stressed the need for everyone to commit themselves to further enriching the Nepali language and literature in recognition of the immense contribution of Bhanubhakta.

The path of simplicity, clarity, and closeness to the people pioneered by Bhanubhakta remains equally relevant today, he said, emphasizing that the younger generation should be encouraged to develop passion to the Nepali language and literature, creativity and innovation.

He was of the view of transforming Bhanubhakta’s ideology as per the need of time and adopting in our lives accordingly.

On the occasion, litterateurs Maheshwar Sharma and Dr. Anna M. Stir were honored by being given a chariot ride for their contribution to the field of Nepali literature.