DAV School Celebrates 212th Bhanu Jayanti with Great-Grand-Daughter of Bhanubhakta Acharya
Date: Jul 15th, 2025
The Nepali Department and Devkota Nepali Club of DAV School organised the Kathmandu Valley Level Interschool Nepali Verse Poetry Recitation and Enactment Competition on the occasion of the 212th Bhanujayanti on 13th July at the school premises.
The programme was graced by the esteemed presence of renowned literary figure Ms. Prabha Acharya Bhattarai, a great-grand-daughter of the first Nepali poet, Bhanubhakta Acharya. She was accompanied by the School’s Vice-principal Mr. Ramchandra Khanal, Head of the Nepali Department Mr. Narayan Khatiwada, as well as principals, co-ordinators, heads of departments, and Nepali language teachers from 12 different schools across the capital.
During the competition, students beautifully recited and enacted poetic verses from the Ramayan along with compositions by other prominent Nepali literary figures. Some even performed the works of their own teachers, adding a personal and heartfelt dimension to the event.
The formal proceedings began with the welcoming of the Chief Guest, the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, and the singing of the national anthem.
In her address, Ms. Bhattarai expressed immense delight in being part of the occasion, remarking that she had never before witnessed such a meaningful programme in the Kathmandu Valley involving young learners up to Grade V in Nepali verse recitation and enactment. She praised the variety of poetic selections, creative use of props, and impressive presentation skills demonstrated by all the participating schools.
As the great-grand-daughter of Bhanubhakta Acharya, Ms. Bhattarai shared fascinating insights, noting that Bhanubhakta translated the Ramayan from Sanskrit to Nepali while imprisoned. She encouraged the students to engage in good deeds that would ensure they are remembered long after their physical presence, just as Bhanubhakta was inspired by a farmer’s desire to dig a well and leave behind a legacy.
She also highlighted that Bhanubhakta's literary journey began with his grandfather, who took him to Banaras to study Sanskrit. In addition to the Ramayan, Bhanubhakta significantly contributed to women’s education and authored Bhaktamala, which further solidified his place in Nepali literature. She captivated the audience with a moving recitation of her poem 'Mero Sano Bhai', along with other engaging and humorous poems.
Vice-principal Mr. Ramchandra Khanal reflected on Bhanubhakta’s role in guiding Nepalese society towards the path of devotion (Bhakti Marg) during a time of national turmoil. He noted that Bhanujayanti is observed wherever the Nepali community resides across the world. He expressed deep gratitude to the Chief Guest for prioritizing this event over another invitation at the President’s Office and recognised her as a contemporary champion of Nepali verse poetry. He also extended heartfelt appreciation to all participating schools, commending the excellence of their presentations.
Mr. Narayan Khatiwada, Head of the Nepali Department, shared that DAV School has been hosting this interschool competition for junior students for the past 15 years. He expressed pride in the legacy of Bhanubhakta Acharya as a distinguished figure from the Nepali linguistic community and affirmed that the competition aims to build a solid foundation in Nepali literature among young learners. He also honoured the Chief Guest as a true teacher to all.
As per the results, Modern Indian School secured first position, followed by Nepal APF School and Panini School in second and third places respectively. Bhanubhakta Memorial School received the award for Outstanding Recitation, Bijayswori Sainik Gyan Maha Vidyalaya was recognised for Outstanding Enactment, and Little Angels’ School earned the Most Captivating Presentation award.
All participating schools were commended for their outstanding performances. Certificates of Participation were awarded to Kanjirowa Secondary School, Global Pathshala School, Nirvana Academy, Machhapuchhre IB School, Pathshala School, and Akshara School. DAV School also presented a performance as a non-competing participant.
The competition was evaluated by Mr. Raju Singh (Senior Music Composer), Mr. Dambar Bikel (Nepali Language Teacher), and Mr Purushottam Rijal (Head of Sanskrit Department). The event was eloquently moderated by Yukti Sharma of Grade XI ‘E’ and Samipya Poudel of Grade X ‘E’.
© 2025 DAV Powered By Ingrails