KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 11

The 141st birth anniversary of Mahaguru Phalgunanda Lingden, revered as the great preacher and social reformer of the Kirat religion, is being marked today with various programs across the country.

Born in Ilam on Kartik 25, 1942 BS, Mahaguru Phalgunanda made remarkable contributions to the Kirat community, promoting its language, script, traditions, and culture. He is also credited with formulating the Satya Dharma Charter on Baisakh 24, 1988 BS, outlining principles for social reform and ethical living.

In recognition of his contributions, the Government of Nepal declared him a national luminary on Mangsir 16, 2066 BS (December 1, 2009). Phalgunanda passed away in 2005 BS.

The anniversary, known as Phalgunanda Jayanti, is being celebrated in several eastern hill districts including Taplejung, Tehrathum, Panchthar, Ilam, and Jhapa, as well as in the Kathmandu Valley, with rituals, processions, and cultural events organized by the Kirat community.

Extending his tribute on the occasion, Koshi Province Chief Minister Hikmat Kumar Karki described Phalgunanda as 'a great guru of Kirat religion, and a reformer who promoted truth, non-violence, and respect for women.' He noted that the Mahaguru's teachings continue to inspire tolerance, unity, and goodwill in Nepali society, and reaffirmed the provincial government's commitment to preserving the multicultural and multilingual identity of the nation