A Lasting Tribute to a Social Pioneer: Judhabir Gurung’s Legacy Honoured in Gorubathan

KalimNews, December 14, 2024, Gorubathan : A significant chapter in the history of Gorubathan was celebrated today as the community paid tribute to the late Judhabir Gurung, a revered social reformer, educationist, and visionary. At a grand event in Mal Busty, a bust and memorial dedicated to his enduring legacy were unveiled at Dharmashala. The ceremony also witnessed the naming of the road connecting Dharmashala to Mal Busty, up to the Sericulture Office, as Judhabir Gurung Path, symbolizing his lasting impact on the region and declared by Suryamani Rai, Sabhapati of Gorubathan Panchayat Samity.

The statue and memorial were inaugurated by Ratan Thapa, Executive Sabhasad of the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration and Sabhasad of the 43 No. Constituency, alongside Mrs. Saru Gurung, the granddaughter-in-law of Late Satal Singh Gurung, Judhabir Gurung’s youngest brother. In a special highlight, a book titled Dharohar, featuring a collection of articles on Judhabir Gurung’s life, works, and contributions—particularly in the field of education, was released by the dignitaries. The book illuminates his transformative impact on Gorubathan and his pioneering role in social and educational reform.

Preserving a Legacy

The site of the memorial, known as Dharmashala, has historical significance, dating back to its original establishment in the 1940s. Renovated in 2016, the structure was preserved to honor Gurung’s memory and contributions. The memorial itself was constructed by members of Gurung’s family and formally dedicated today by the Statue Installation Committee, with sponsorship from the extended Gurung family.

Speaking at the event, the key speakers highlighted Gurung’s unwavering dedication to community upliftment. “May the virtues of wisdom, intellect, and selfless service that he embodied continue to inspire future generations,” he said, lauding Gurung’s lifelong commitment to education and social reform.

Judhabir Gurung: A Visionary Leader

Born on September 6, 1869, Judhabir Gurung devoted his life to the betterment of society until his passing on December 4, 1928. He was a pioneering force in the field of education, establishing the first educational institution in Gorubathan in the late 1920s by donating his ancestral land and a wooden house in Mal Busty. Initially known as the Judhabir Gurung Memorial School, the institution later evolved into the Judhabir Junior Basic School and eventually the Judhabir Higher Secondary School.

Historical records indicate that as early as 1928–29, Juddhabir's son Damber Singh Gurung worked alongside local pioneers such as Tekbir Rai and Berman Singh Lepcha to establish formal education in Gorubathan. Together, they transformed a modest garage provided by trader Burmadutt Sharma into the foundation of modern education in the region. Gurung’s vision of accessible education for all—irrespective of economic status—paved the way for future advancements.

A Broader Impact

Judhabir Gurung’s contributions extended beyond education. He was deeply committed to fostering a self-reliant society through honesty, compassion, and community service. His legacy was carried forward by his son, the late Damber Singh Gurung, a prominent political leader, lawyer, and social activist. Damber Singh Gurung’s notable achievements include founding the Akhil Bharatiya Gorkha League and representing the Indian Gorkha community in the Constituent Assembly of India.

Community Celebrates Gurung’s Legacy

The dedication event witnessed the participation of several dignitaries and community members, including Chief Guest Ratan Thapa, the Executive Sabhasad of GTA, Suryamani Rai (Sabhapati of Gorubathan Panchayat Samity), and Mrs. Saru Gurung. Notable attendees also included Radhika Gurung, wife of former MLA Gajendra Gurung (Nar Bahadur Gurung's son), along with family members of writer ML Sundas, representatives of the extended Gurung family from various places, and prominent personalities from Gorubathan, Kumai, Lava, and other regions.

The program featured speeches by Subash Sotang, Govind Patriyar, Tarun Rai, Bishnu Lahabar and others including Puran Rai, who also served as the President of the program and organizing committee. They hailed Gurung as a “beacon of knowledge and integrity,” highlighting his significant contributions to Gorubathan’s educational and social progress. 

Other speakers extended their praise to Judhabir Gurung and Gurung family for their efforts in fostering the development of Gorubathan across various fields, including education. They also thanked “Gorubathan Future Vision” committee and its sub-committee, the Judhabir Gurung Memorial Construction Committee, for taking the initiative and organizing the programme.  The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Souraj Rai, Secretary of the committee. Maheswar Pradhan adeptly managed the proceedings as the Master of Ceremonies.

Historical Milestones in Education

Under Judhabir Gurung’s stewardship and the continued efforts of his family, Gorubathan has witnessed significant milestones in education:

1894/95: Gorubathan Primary School established at School Dara, Gorubathan Tar. First teacher: Tendu Lepcha.

1928/29: Judhabir Memorial Primary School started at Dharmashala with teachers Tekbir Rai and Barman Singh Lepcha.

1938: Renamed Judhabir Primary School.

1947/48: Judhabir Junior Basic School recognized and established in Mal Busty.

1964/65: Judhabir Senior Basic School established.

1969: Judhabir Junior High School established; upgraded to High by 1979/80 and later to Higher Secondary status .

A Legacy of Enlightenment

Judhabir Gurung’s vision for education as a tool for social empowerment continues to inspire. From the early establishment of Gorubathan Primary School to the expansion of institutions like Judhabir Higher Secondary School, his legacy has created a ripple effect that endures. By prioritizing education, Gurung ensured that values of knowledge, service, and community upliftment would thrive across generations.

Today’s ceremony stands as a poignant reminder of Judhabir Gurung’s monumental contributions. As his statue stands tall and the newly named Judhabir Gurung Path connects communities, his life’s work continues to inspire hope, education, and empowerment in Gorubathan and beyond.