Sardar Rudra Raj Pande’s 126th birth anniversary celebrated at SAIM College

KATHMANDU: The 126th birth anniversary of Sardar Rudra Raj Pande, one of Nepal’s prominent figures in education, literature, and intellectual life, was celebrated through a special programme at SAIM College in Purano Baneshwor.

The event was organised by the Rudra Raj Sahitya Sewa Samiti and held under chairmanship of Dr Badri Raj Pande, president of the Samiti. Prof Mahesh Kumar Upadhyay, former Vice‑Chancellor of Tribhuvan University, attended as the Chief Guest.

The programme began with the national anthem and floral tributes to the portrait of Sardar Rudra Raj Pande, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the Chief Guest to formally inaugurate the event.

In his welcome address, Dr Neil Pande, General Secretary of the Samiti, highlighted Pande’s enduring contributions to Nepal’s intellectual and cultural development, noting that his work in education, literature, historical awareness and spiritual thought continues to inspire generations.

During the programme, Prof Dr Bhaveshwar Pangeni delivered a presentation on the multi‑dimensional personality and contributions of Pande, shedding light on his role in shaping Nepal’s academic and literary traditions.

On the occasion, noted historian Prof Dr Tek Bahadur Shrestha was honoured with an award in recognition of his significant contributions to historical research and scholarship in Nepal. The award was presented by the Chief Guest, Prof Upadhyay, while the ceremonial shawl was offered by the President of the Samiti, Dr Badri Raj Pande. In his remarks, Prof Dr Shrestha expressed gratitude for the recognition and emphasised the importance of continuing research and documentation of Nepal’s historical and intellectual heritage.

The event also recognised young academic talent. Two students from Bhanu Secondary School (Durbar High School) were honoured for their academic excellence: Khem Bohora, who secured outstanding results in the SEE examination last year, and Angel Pyakurel, recognised as a promising student.

Speaking at the event, the chief guest reflected on the lasting legacy of Sardar Rudra Raj Pande and his role in strengthening Nepal’s educational and intellectual foundations, noting that commemorative events such as this help connect younger generations with the country’s rich scholarly traditions. Krishna Raj Pande, Patron of the Samiti, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of preserving and studying Pande’s ideas, writings and legacy.

The occasion was further enriched by the presence of Dr Gauri Shankar Lal Das, the revered Dibya Satabdi Purush, who, at the age of 103, addressed the gathering. In his remarks, Dr Das reflected on the life, works and commitment of Sardar Pande towards the intellectual and national development of Nepal, offering a rare and moving perspective that linked generations of the country’s scholarly and civic traditions.

The programme concluded with closing remarks and a vote of thanks by President Dr Badri Raj Pande. The event was attended by scholars, historians, educators, students and members of the public who gathered to pay tribute to one of Nepal’s distinguished intellectual figures.