‘Mato Kavi’ Jiwan Theeng’s statue unveiled in Gangtok

HISHEY WANGDI

GANGTOK,: After decades of waiting the dream of installing a statue of ‘Mato Kavi’ Jiwan Theeng has finally been realized in Sikkim. The statue was unveiled on Wednesday along Jiwan Theeng Marg, near Manan Kendra and Rachna Books in the capital, Gangtok.

The unveiling ceremony was organized under the aegis of the All Sikkim Tamang Buddhist Association, and the statue was formally inaugurated by Gangtok Municipal Corporation (GMC) Mayor Tshering Palden Bhutia.

The ceremony witnessed the presence of Deputy Mayor Sara Lama, literary personalities, members of the Tamang community, and admirers of ‘Mato Kavi’ Jiwan Theeng, who gathered to pay tribute to the poet. Floral offerings and prayers were presented before the newly unveiled statue which honours the legendary literary figure whose contributions to Nepali literature and culture continue to inspire generations in Sikkim.

Speaking during the ceremony, poet Pravin Khaling highlighted the immense contribution of ‘Mato Kavi’ Jiwan Theeng towards Nepali literature and society. He described the unveiling of the statue as a significant step in honouring the legacy of the poet, whose literary works continue to resonate deeply among literature lovers and inspire generations of writers and readers alike.

He also compared Jiwan Theeng to Chilean poet Víctor Jara, stating that both figures used their art and literature as powerful voices for the people.

Talking at the ceremony, chief guest Tshering Palden Bhutia thanked the Sikkim Tamang Buddhist Association for the invitation and appreciated the organisation for taking the initiative to honour ‘Mato Kavi’ Jiwan Theeng. She spoke about the significance of the landmark being named as Jiwan Theeng Marg, stating that it stands as a lasting tribute to the poet.

The Mayor also lauded Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay for not having a political outlook in matters concerning art, literature, and culture, and for supporting initiatives that recognise individuals from all communities for their contribution towards the state and society.

During the vote of thanks, general secretary of Nepali Sahitya Parishad Sikkim, Bhim Rawat, praised ‘Mato Kavi’ Jiwan Theeng for his immense contribution to Nepali literature and culture. He also expressed gratitude to the Government of Sikkim for granting permission to install the statue of Jiwan Theeng, stating that the monument would serve as a lasting tribute to the legendary poet.

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay has congratulated the Sikkim Tamang Buddhist Association, organisers and family members for the inauguration of ‘Mato Kavi’ Jiwan Theeng statue.

The Chief Minister expressed that poet Jiwan Theeng made an indelible contribution to Nepali literature despite his short life, and his writings powerfully reflected love for the motherland, social awareness, and cultural identity.

The unveiling of his statue is not only a tribute to a literary figure, but also an honour to Sikkim’s literary and cultural heritage, said the Chief Minister adding that Theeng’s timeless words will continue to inspire future generations.

Once again, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to everyone associated with this occasion, said the Chief Minister in his message.