‘Diamond Shumsher Puraskar’ to Khagendra Nepali

The Diamond Shumsher Rana Literary Foundation-Nepal has awarded the first-ever “Diamond Shumsher Pratibha Puraskar and Award” to veteran broadcast journalist Khagendra Nepali.

Diamond Shumsher Rana and Khagendra Nepali launching the audio book 'Seto Bagh' in Kathmandu (File Photo)

In a statement, the Foundation said Mr Nepali has been awarded the Prize for producing the audio book ‘Seto Bagh’ in his own voice based on the historic novel penned by the late author. “This award is in recognition of Mr Nepali’s contribution to promote Nepali literature within the country and abroad,” the statement said. The award carries a purse of Rs 25,000.

Former head of the BBC Nepali Service, Mr Nepali has also produced audio books based on creations of Mahakabi Laxmi Prasad Devkota and late B P Koirala. He is now serving as the chairman of the Nepali Sahitya Vikas Parishad, UK.

“ It was a pleasant surprise to be be awarded the first ever ‘Diamond Sumsher Prativa Puraskar’ for doing what I enjoyed most. It was an exciting experience to narrate a piece of historical fiction with all the court conspiracies and glamour,” said Khagendra Nepai, adding, “ The award has been an inspirational factor for me to produce more audio books for the Nepalese audience.”

A freedom fighter, late Diamond Shumsher Rana has authored many historical novels including ‘Basanti’ and ‘Seto Bagh’ based on palace intrigues during the Rana regime, which continue to capture popular imaginations of the Nepalese and foreign readers.

Published in 1970, Seto Bagh has been translated into English, Japanese, German and French.

Rana passed away in Kathmandu last year. nepalnews.com