Bhutanese Association in South Australia (BASA) observed 197th birth anniversary of the prominent poet of Nepali literature, Bhanu bhakta Acharya, on 13th July 2010 along with various other programmes.

The programme was organized at the Community Centre located at the Coglin Street in Adelaide. Australian National award winner writers, Max and Jacqui graced the programme as the Guests of Honour and Deepak Bista, life member of the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) was the chief Guest. The celebration formally began at 12.30 pm with candle lighting and offering garland on the portrait of Bhanu Bhakta Acharya by the guests.
A translated copy of the short biography of Adi Kabi Bhanu Bhakta Achayra was distributed to the guests.
The Bhutanese community members who participated in the programme recited few poems and a story; Max read his poem, ‘Men of Skins’ which had won a National award in 2008 while Jacqui entertained the audience with her poem, ‘Mining Town Pianist’. Awards were given away to the best performers.
It was the first literary programme organized by the Language and Cultural Desk of BASA.
‘Although BASA has excelled in promoting the Bhutanese-Nepali culture in South Australia, we are just beginning to do the same for our language and literature’, said Sushil Niraula, the Coordinator of the Language and Cultural Desk of BASA.
Appreciating the Bhutanese community for keeping alive the tradition of honoring the icon of their ethnic language, the Chief Guest formally ended the anniversary celebration at 2 pm.
The celebration was followed by a welcome cum introduction programme where membership forms were distributed to the new arrivals.
–Ichha Poudyel