Statue of Literary Luminary Haimandas Rai 'Kirat' Unveiled at Gorubathan

KalimNews, Gorubathan, January 17, 2025 : In collaboration with the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), the Sajha Sahitya Sanrakshan Sanstha unveiled a statue of the late literary luminary Haimandas Rai 'Kirat' at Sombarey Bazaar’s newly constructed Trikon Park in Gorubathan. Renowned for his exceptional contributions to Nepali literature and publishing, Kirat's legacy continues to inspire the Nepali community worldwide.

The unveiling ceremony was graced by GTA Chief Executive Anit Thapa as the chief guest. Presided over by senior literary figure Dr. Gokul Sinha, the event included speeches by prominent personalities, such as Dr. Remika Thapa, who detailed Kirat’s life and literary achievements. Attendees included literary figures from different areas of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Duars, and Sikkim, reflecting the broad impact of Kirat's work across the region.

In his address, Anit Thapa highlighted the importance of Kirat’s contributions, describing him as a revered figure and guardian of the Gorkha community. “Haimandas Rai 'Kirat' is one of our most eminent creators, and his memory and legacy have been immortalized in the annals of literary history. Gorubathan, his birthplace, now stands as a shared pilgrimage site for all Indian Nepalis,” Thapa stated.

The statue, meticulously sculpted by Amir Sundas, has been lauded for its life-like detail. Sundas encouraged visitors to Trikon Park to capture selfies with the statue, cementing its role as a cultural landmark.

Dr. Mohan P. Dahal, another guest, proposed renaming Gorubathan Government Degree College to Haimandas Rai College in his honor. Dr. Kavita Lama emphasized introducing Kirat’s contributions to children's literature to familiarize younger generations with his work.

Often referred to as a "man of the century" for his remarkable life spanning over 100 years, Haimandas Rai 'Kirat' was born on February 11, 1919, in Gorubathan’s North Zone village to parents Rabichandra Rai and Ratnabai Rai. He passed away on July 15, 2019. Despite limited formal education—studying up to the eighth grade, Kirat pursued higher studies independently, eventually earning a post graduate degree from North Bengal University.

Kirat’s literary journey began in 1934 with the publication of his short story Surbeer in Sharada, a leading Nepali journal of the time. Over the decades, he authored numerous acclaimed works, including short story collections such as Chowkidar (1952), Abhagni Saathi (1955), Binayo (1956), Bijay (1965), and Pankhi (2000). His novels Hoy Changba (1984) and Kundal (2012), along with poetry collections like Asar-29 (1988) and Yo Baisakh Ho (2011), further showcase his literary versatility. His anthologies, including Kehi Namileka Rekhaharu Volumes 1 and 2 (2006, 2007), and Hiking (2010), continue to be celebrated in Nepali literature.

Kirat also played a pivotal role in Nepali publishing, founding Navayug Nepali Pustak Mandir in 1956. This platform published iconic works by authors such as Agam Singh Giri, Hari Bhakta Katuwal, Indra Bahadur Rai, Achchha Rai Rashik, and Bhupatdas Rai, B.B. Rana and others, significantly advancing the Nepali literary movement.

Recognized for his enduring contributions, Kirat received numerous accolades, including the President’s Teachers Award (1993), Sahitya Akademi Award (2008) for his short story collection Kehi Namileka Rekhaharu, and Bhanu Puraskar (2004). He was also honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the GTA for his outstanding impact on Nepali literature.

This tribute to Haimandas Rai 'Kirat' not only celebrates his towering legacy but also underscores his lasting influence on Nepali literature and culture. His life and work remain a beacon of inspiration for the community and beyond.