Cherishing Literary Legacy: Remembering Lila Bahadur Kshetri in Chathar
21 Ashar, Tehrathum – Sometimes, an individual’s life story transcends their own time, reflecting the chronicles of a society, a generation, and a geography. Lila Bahadur Kshetri is such a literary figure who left an indelible mark on Nepali literature. Born in Guwahati, Assam, India, Kshetri’s ancestors had journeyed from Sudap in Chathar, Eastern Nepal’s Tehrathum district, to Assam. His renowned novel Basai, centered on the realities of Nepali society, migration, poverty, and human sensitivity, has become a timeless masterpiece of Nepali literature. Though Kshetri passed away on March 13, 2025, in Guwahati, his works continue to keep his legacy alive in Nepali literary circles.
In his memory, a two-day program on literature, culture, and creativity was organized in Chathar, Tehrathum. The event titled “In Memory of Literary Figure Lila Bahadur Kshetri: Discussion, Creator Honors, and Award Ceremony” went beyond just commemorating the writer. It connected literature, culture, education, and tourism, encouraging society to take pride in its unique identity. Managed by Chathar Rural Municipality and organized by Chathar Literary Society and Sukrabaare, the program aimed to introduce Kshetri’s literary contributions to younger generations, honor local creators, and foster a literary environment.
On the first day, participants undertook a literary journey visiting Sudap, Kshetri’s ancestral village. They gained an intimate understanding of the environment that shaped his childhood, the inspirations behind his works, and the rural lifestyle. The event included the donation of books to Janakalyan Basic School. Creative presentations by students demonstrated the enduring interest of new generations in literature. An evening literary and musical gathering featured poetry readings, songs, and cultural performances, transforming the atmosphere into a literary celebration. Writers from 10 districts participated in the event.
Prominent contributors such as Maya Mitu Nyaupane, Mukund Prayas, Kavita Keshari, Dhruv Alex, Deepa Deepahari, Virendra Khadka, Pramod Dulal, and Tara Kafle presented their works during the program. The second day’s highlight was the panel discussion and award ceremony honoring creators. Speakers reflected on Lila Bahadur Kshetri’s personality and writings, emphasizing that his works serve as vivid documents of Nepali society. Particularly, works like Basai were acknowledged for introducing the world to the realities of Nepali society, poverty, displacement, and human emotions.
Attending the event for the first time at her ancestral land was Dr. Krishna Kshetri, Kshetri’s daughter, who appeared deeply moved. “I am extremely happy to see my father honored in his birthplace,” she remarked. “Though much of our life was spent in Guwahati, Assam, today, witnessing the respect for his contributions here fills me with pride.” Trupti Bhandari from Chathar Rural Municipality-5, Okhre, was awarded the “Navsarjak Samman-2082.” Moreover, honors were bestowed on Santosh Tigela, chairperson of Chathar Rural Municipality, Dr. Devi Kshetri Dulal, central chairperson of Progressive Writers Association, Dr. Krishna Kshetri, and the National Folk and Dohori Song Institution Nepal, Tehrathum for their contributions to literature, art, culture, and social sectors.