Monday, May 18, 2026 22:00 [IST]
Last Update: Sunday, May 17, 2026 16:28 [IST]
SILIGURI,:
“Ekta”, a book authored by six brothers from the same family, was formally
released during a programme held in Siliguri on Sunday. The book has been
published by Ekta Prakashan, Timburbung, a newly-established publishing house
based in Soreng.
The
collective work brings together the writings of late Rudra Mani Bhattarai along
with noted litterateurs P.L. Sharma, K.P. Sharma, G.K. Sharma, Arun Sharma, and
C.P. Sharma, a recipient of the Sahitya Akademi Award. Although Rudra Mani
Bhattarai is no longer alive, his literary writings have also been included in
the book.
The
publication was formally unveiled by Soreng-Chakung MLA Aditya Golay, who
attended the event as the chief guest.
During
the programme, Ekta Prakashanconferred the first “Kedar-Thalrupa Memorial
Award”upon renowned Sikkimese mountaineer Manita Pradhan. She was honoured with
a cash award of Rs. 21,000, a citation, a commemorative plaque, and traditional
ceremonial honours.
The
Kedar-Thalrupa Memorial Award, instituted in memory of the founders’ parents,
will be presented annually to individuals from Sikkim for outstanding
contributions in literature, art, social service, and other fields.
The
Ekta Prakashanalso announced its plans to publish and promote literary works
across different genres in the coming years.
Addressing
the gathering, MLA Aditya Golay described the release of a joint book by six
members of the same family as not only a proud moment for the family but also
for the Nepali literary community as a whole. He said the initiative reflected
unity, brotherhood, and cultural harmony, while emphasising that literature
plays an important role in guiding society and politics in a positive
direction.
Speaking
during the programme, C.P. Sharma said the brothers have remained actively
engaged in literary pursuits for many years and expressed hope that the younger
generation of the family would continue contributing to literature in the
future.
Accepting
the award, Manita Pradhan expressed gratitude to the organisers and recalled
the immense love and support she received from people after successfully
scaling Mount Everest. She noted that summiting Everest remains the dream of
every mountaineer and said her achievement was the result of determination and
continuous hard work. Pradhan, who has earlier been honoured with Sikkim Ratna
Award, is the first woman mountaineer from Northeast India to successfully
scale the Seven Summits, the highest mountains on each of the seven traditional
continents, including Mount Everest.
