Kathmandu — Buddhist nun and internationally known singer Ani Choying Drolma has been appointed vice-chairperson of the Lumbini Development Trust, which oversees the conservation and development of the birthplace of Gautama Buddha.
The Cabinet approved her appointment at a meeting on Oct. 16, following a proposal from the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Minister Khadak Raj Paudel said.
Drolma was appointed under Section 8(1)(b) of the Lumbini Development Trust Act, 1985. The position carries a five-year term, and the vice-chair also serves as the trust’s chief administrative officer under regulations adopted in 2001.
The post had remained vacant for an extended period. Her appointment is expected to help advance administrative work and development projects in Lumbini.
Widely known as the “singing nun,” she has also devoted much of her work to education, health care and humanitarian causes.
Her autobiography, ‘Singing for Freedom’, has been translated into several languages. She has received national and international recognition for her musical career and social contributions.
The Lumbini Development Trust was established by the Nepal government in 1985 to conserve and promote Lumbini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site revered by Buddhists worldwide. The site is traditionally recognized as the birthplace of Gautama Buddha.
