161st Moti Jayanti being observed today

KATHMANDU: The 161st birth anniversary of national luminary and “Youth Poet” Motiram Bhatta is being observed today with various literary events.

Bhatta was born on this day in 1923 BS (1866 AD) on Kushe Aunsi, which is observed as National Father’s Day. He died on the same day in 1953 BS (1896 AD).

Although he lived for only 30 years, Bhatta is remembered for his significant contributions to Nepali literature. He played a key role in bringing the life and work of Adikavi Bhanubhakta Acharya to wider public attention by publishing Bhanubhakta’s biography.

Bhatta is also credited with introducing the printing press to Nepal. He introduced the ghazal form to Nepali literature and published Bhanubhakta’s Ramayana in 1941 BS.

He made significant contributions to the development of the Nepali language, helping establish it as an effective and expressive medium for literary works. Among Bhatta’s notable literary works are Bhanubhaktako Jeewan Charitra, Priyadarshika, and Pikdut.

The printing press he introduced also played an important role in the development of journalism in Nepal. Various literary organizations, including the Nepali Education Council and Nepal Academy, are organizing programmes today to commemorate Moti Jayanti.

The Nepali Education Council is hosting a poet conference at 2:00 pm today, where the “Youth Poet Moti Award” will also be presented, according to council chairperson Rama Sharma.