KATHMANDU: Nepal’s literary and cultural community is mourning the death of renowned poet, lyricist and ‘Janakabi’ Durga Lal Shrestha, who passed away at the age of 93 at his residence in Budhanilkantha, Kathmandu, on Sunday night.
Shrestha devoted more than six decades of his life to literature, becoming one of the most respected voices in Nepal Bhasa and Nepali. His works included poems, songs, plays and children’s literature, and he made an important contribution to preserving and promoting Nepal Bhasa language, literature and culture.
He began writing at a young age, with his first poem, ‘Dui Thopa’ (‘Two Drops’), published in ‘Suskera’ magazine in 1952. Over the decades, he produced numerous literary works covering themes of humanity, culture, social awareness and everyday life.
In recognition of his contribution, the Nepal Bhasa Parishad honoured Shrestha with the title ‘Janakabi’. He was also appointed an honorary member of the Nepal Academy in 1995 and received several honours during his career, including the prestigious ‘Jagadamba Shree’ in 2010.
Shrestha was also widely recognised as a lyricist. One of his best-known works is ‘Phool Ko Aankha Ma, Phoolai Sansar’, sung by Ani Choying Drolma, which became popular among audiences in Nepal and beyond.
Children’s literature was another important part of his career. He wrote extensively for younger readers, with some of his songs and literary works later adapted into illustrated children’s books.
His final rites will be performed tomorrow, following a public tribute.
Shrestha leaves behind a rich collection of poems, songs and literary works. His decades-long contribution to Nepal Bhasa, Nepali literature, music and culture will remain an important part of Nepal’s literary heritage.
