174th birth anniversary of Padri Ganga Prasad Pradhan celebrated in Gangtok

HOMNATH DABARI

GANGTOK, : Padri Ganga Prasad Pradhan Smriti Pratishthan celebrated its 10th Foundation Day and the 174th birth anniversary of Padri Ganga Prasad Pradhan with a commemorative function held in Gangtok today.

The event was graced by Rural Development minister Arun Kumar Upretias the chief guest with Health Minister G.T. Dhungel and Chief Minister’s political secretary Jacob Khaling present as special guests.

The programme honoured the historical legacy of Padri Ganga Prasad Pradhan, especially his pioneering contribution in translating the English Bible into the Nepali language. Various speakers remembered his literary, journalistic, and social reform contributions.

On this occasion, several individuals were felicitated for their dedicated service in different sectors. Among the honourees were Dr. P.M. Pradhan, founding president of the Pratishthan; Kiran Rasaily, advisor; and Chunilal Ghimirey, vice-president.

The ‘Padri Ganga Prasad Pradhan Patrakarita Smriti Samman’ was awarded to veteran journalist Arun Kumar Rasaily from Kalimpong. Noted gospel singer and pastor C.K. Rai was also specially honoured for his contributions in the field of music.

In his keynote address, noted author Bijay Kumar Subba emphasized that Padri Ganga Prasad Pradhan's literary and cultural contributions deserve recognition equivalent to that of Adikavi Bhanubhakta Acharya. He strongly advocated for the construction of a statue in Pradhan’s honour.

Pratishthan vice president Patrus Gurung echoed this sentiment and expressed disappointment that the long-standing demand for a statue has yet to be fulfilled. He assured that the matter would soon be taken up again with the government.

Minister Arun Kumar Upreti, in his remarks, commended the efforts of the Pratishthan and appreciated its work in preserving and promoting the legacy of Padri Ganga Prasad Pradhan.