Famous Nepalese Writers

Bhanubhakta Acharya was a prominent Nepali writer, poet, and translator recognized as the first poet in the Nepali language. He earned the title "Aadikabi," meaning "the first poet." His most notable achievement was translating the epic Ramayana from Sanskrit to Nepali, a groundbreaking work that initially gained popularity through oral recitations. The translation was later compiled and published as Bhanubhakta Ramayana by Motirām Bhatta in the late 19th century, solidifying Acharya's legacy as a pioneering literary figure in Nepali literature.

Suman Pokhrel is a highly acclaimed Nepali poet, lyricist, playwright, translator, and artist. His poetry is recognized and studied in universities in Nepal and India. He is a distinguished figure in the literary world, being the only writer to have been honored with the prestigious SAARC Literary Award twice, in 2013 and 2015. Additionally, he has received numerous national and international literary accolades, such as the Shaluk International Literature Award and Asia's Inspiring Poet Award, solidifying his reputation as an outstanding and influential literary figure.

Laxmi Prasad Devkota was a prominent figure in Nepali literature, renowned for his contributions as a poet, playwright, novelist, and politician. He earned the prestigious title of Mahakabi, signifying his status as one of the greatest poets in Nepali literature. Devkota's works, such as the widely acclaimed Muna Madan, Sulochana, Kunjini, Bhikhari, and Shakuntala, have solidified his legacy as a literary icon in Nepal. His profound impact on Nepali literature continues to be celebrated, reflecting his enduring influence and talent.

Matthieu Ricard is a prominent figure in the fields of writing, photography, translation, and Buddhism. After earning a PhD in molecular genetics, he chose to pursue a spiritual path, dedicating himself to Tibetan Buddhism in the Himalayas. He is actively involved in humanitarian work through the organization Karuna-Shechen, which he co-founded. Ricard is known for his role as the French interpreter for the 14th Dalai Lama and for his contributions to the Mind and Life Institute. He travels extensively, giving talks and assisting in teachings by spiritual leaders like Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche.

Dayahang Rai is a renowned Nepalese actor, director, and playwright who has made a significant impact on Nepali cinema. Known for his unique acting style, he has starred in over 40 films and is considered one of the leading contemporary actors in Nepal. Dayahang gained recognition through popular television series before transitioning to successful films like "Loot," which marked a turning point in his career. His impressive filmography includes commercially successful movies like "Kabaddi" and its sequels, "Woda Number 6," and "White Sun," the first Nepali film submitted for the Academy Awards. Throughout his career, Dayahang has received multiple accolades, including National Awards for his exceptional performances.

Hari Bansha Acharya is a versatile Nepalese artist known for his skills in acting, comedy, directing, singing, and writing. He is renowned for his method acting and is one half of the popular comedy duo MaHa Jodi, alongside Madan Krishna Shrestha. Acharya gained widespread recognition for his role as Arjun in the 1997 patriotic drama film Balidaan and for his performance as "Hari Bahadur" in the series Madan Bahadur Hari Bahadur. Additionally, he has showcased his writing and acting talents in the film Shatru Gatey, further solidifying his status in the entertainment industry.

Motiram Bhatta was a versatile figure in Nepali literature, known for his contributions as a poet, singer, essayist, publisher, and literary critic. He was the first biographer and literary critic in Nepali literature, credited with establishing the first private printing press in Nepal. Bhatta introduced the Ghazal style of poetry and singing in Nepal and was proficient in multiple languages including Sanskrit, Persian, English, Bengali, Urdu, and Nepal Bhasa. His biography of Bhanubhakta Acharya solidified Acharya's position as the first poet of the Nepali language. Bhatta's professional legacy is marked by his significant role in shaping Nepali literature during the Motiram Era.

Madan Krishna Shrestha is a versatile figure in the Nepali entertainment industry, excelling as an actor, comedian, writer, singer, songwriter, director, and producer. Renowned for his method acting skills, he is part of the renowned comedy duo MaHa Jodi, alongside Hari Bansha Acharya. Madan Krishna is celebrated for his stage performances, often in collaboration with Hari Bansha Acharya. With a successful and respected career, he is considered one of the most prominent comedians in Nepal, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment landscape.

B. P. Koirala was a prominent Nepali revolutionary, political leader, and writer known for his role as the Prime Minister of Nepal from 1959 to 1960. He led the Nepali Congress, a social democratic political party, and was a strong advocate for democracy and democratic socialism. Koirala was the first democratically elected Prime Minister of Nepal and is widely regarded as one of the greatest political figures in the country's history. Despite facing imprisonment and exile, he remained committed to fighting for individual liberties and rights, emphasizing the importance of democratic socialism in addressing Nepal's underdevelopment.

Siddhicharan Shrestha was a prominent writer in Nepal known for his contributions to the struggle against the autocratic Rana regime through his writings. He played a significant role in inspiring freedom fighters with his revolutionary poetry, leading to his imprisonment for 18 years. Writing in Nepal Bhasa and Nepali languages, Shrestha's work highlighted social and political issues, with his poem "Mero Pyaro Okhaldhunga" standing out as a masterpiece. His professional life was centered around advocating for social change and expressing pride in his roots through his literary endeavors.

Madhav Prasad Ghimire was a distinguished Nepali poet and scholar, recognized as the Rashtrakavi (National Poet) by the Government of Nepal in 2003. Throughout his 86-year literary career, he authored epic poems, plays, and essays, along with composing popular songs. Ghimire also served as the Vice Chancellor and Chancellor of the Royal Nepal Academy, contributed to literary journals and newspapers, and received prestigious awards such as the Order of Gorkha Dakshina Bahu, Tribhuwan Pragya Puraskar, and Sajha Puraskar.

Jhamak Kumari Ghimire is a renowned Nepali writer known for her inspiring journey as a columnist at the Kantipur newspaper. Overcoming her physical challenges, she writes with exceptional skill using only her left foot. Her autobiography "Jiwan Kada Ki Phool" earned her prestigious awards like the Madan Puraskar, recognizing her significant contributions to Nepalese literature. Ghimire's talent and dedication have been further acknowledged through accolades such as the Kabita Ram Bal Sahitya Prativa Puraskar, Aswikrit Bichar Sahitya Puraskar, and additional Madan Puraskar honors.

Neer Bikram Shah, also known as Nir Shah, is a prominent figure in Nepalese cinema, excelling as an actor, director, producer, poet, songwriter, and businessman. With a versatile skill set, he has made significant contributions to the industry, earning a reputation as one of the leading actors in Nepali cinema history. Known for his multiple talents and identities, Neer Shah's professional life showcases a diverse range of accomplishments and a strong connection to the royal family of Nepal.

Parijat, born Bishnu Kumari Waiba, was a prominent Nepali writer and poet acclaimed for her literary contributions. She gained widespread recognition for her novel "Shirishko Phool," which earned her the prestigious Madan Puraskar, making her the first woman to achieve this honor. Throughout her career, Parijat continued to captivate audiences with multiple novels, poems, and stories, showcasing her profound talent and creativity. Her works left a lasting impact on Nepali literature, establishing her as a revered figure in the literary world.

Lekhnath Paudyal is recognized as the pioneering figure in modern Nepali poetry literature, known as the founding father of modern Nepali poetry in the twentieth century. His significant contributions lie in enriching and refining the language rather than in philosophical depth. Paudyal's poems, characterized by formal dignity, adhere to traditional Sanskrit poetics conventions. He was the first modern Nepali poet to write in the classical style, with works reflecting both orthodox Vedanta philosophy and original inspiration. Paudyal's poetry addressed contemporary social and political issues, laying the foundation for future poetic endeavors.

Chandra Kant Raut, also known as Dr. CK Raut, is a Nepalese Member of Parliament, computer engineer, former US Defense programmer, author, and activist. He holds a gold medal in Bachelor of Engineering from Pulchowk Campus, Tribhuvan University. Initially involved in advocating for an independent Madhesh, he later transitioned to mainstream politics, founding the Janamat Party in 2019. Raut's professional journey reflects a blend of technical expertise, activism, and political engagement, culminating in his election to the Pratinidhi Sabha in the 2022 Nepalese general election.

Krishna Lal Adhikari was a Nepali government official who worked in the Office of Foreign Affairs. He was an advocate of freedom of speech and personal expression. Adhikari wrote a book about maize cultivation, which was accused of being treasonous, leading to his imprisonment. Despite facing hardships in jail, he continued to stand by his beliefs. Adhikari's dedication to his principles and his ultimate sacrifice for freedom of speech have made him a symbol of resistance and a literary martyr in Nepal.

Guru Prasad Mainali was a prominent Nepalese short story writer and civil servant. He is recognized as one of the finest short story writers in Nepali literature, with his work highly esteemed by readers and critics alike. Mainali's notable contribution to literature includes his renowned short story collection titled Naso. Alongside his literary pursuits, he also had a successful career as a civil servant. Through his writing and public service, Guru Prasad Mainali left a lasting impact on Nepalese culture and society.

Yogmaya Neupane was a religious leader, women's rights activist, and poet in Nepal. She is known for her pioneering role as a female poet in Nepal, with her only published book of poems, Sarwartha Yogbani, being her most significant work. Yogmaya's poetry and activism focused on themes of cultural and political oppression, female and minority rights, and Hindu religious contexts. She founded the first organization for Nepali women, Nari Samiti, and played a key role in the abolition of sati in Nepal. Despite government persecution, Yogmaya remained dedicated to her cause until her tragic death with her disciples in a mass suicide in 1941.

Satya Mohan Joshi was a prominent Nepalese writer and scholar renowned for his extensive research on the history and culture of Nepal. He also held the prestigious position of chancellor at the Nepal Bhasa Academy, where he made significant contributions to preserving and promoting the language and culture of Nepal. Throughout his professional life, Joshi demonstrated a deep commitment to academic excellence and a passion for advancing knowledge and understanding of Nepal's rich cultural heritage, leaving a lasting impact on the academic and cultural spheres of the country.

Gopal Prasad Rimal was a prominent Nepalese poet known for his revolutionary approach to poetry. He gained recognition for being the first Nepali poet to reject traditional meter in his works. Hailed as a trailblazer in Nepali literature, Rimal's professional life was marked by his bold experimentation with poetic forms and themes. His contributions have left a lasting impact on the literary landscape of Nepal, inspiring future generations of poets to push boundaries and explore new creative horizons.

Upendra Subba, also known as Upendra Bahadur Angdembe Limbu, is a versatile figure in the Nepali creative scene. He is renowned for his contributions as a poet, lyricist, writer, and film director. Notably, he played a pivotal role in founding the Srijanshil Arajakta (Creative Anarchy) movement alongside Rajan Mukarung and Hangyug Agyat. Through his works, Subba has left a lasting impact on Nepali literature and cinema, showcasing his talent and commitment to pushing creative boundaries and exploring innovative artistic expressions.