Peace Literature Assembly

OVERVIEW 

Nepalese New Year (Basanta Utsab) was organized by the Peace Literature Assembly under the joint coordination of FFWPU Nepal and UPF Nepal.

The event brought together writers, artists, peace leaders, and distinguished guests to promote cultural exchange. It served as a platform to recognize individuals who contributed to peace and human development.

SUMMARY

The program began with arrival and registration of guests, followed by formal inauguration session that included the national anthem and ceremonial lamp lighting. Ms. Ganga Khatiwada, Secretary of the Peace Literature Assembly, gracefully conducted the event.

A welcome cultural dance was presented by Jin Ho Shrestha, followed by welcome address delivered by Mr. Krishna Adhikari, Regional Director of FFWPU South Asia. He emphasized the importance of peacebuilding through literature and intergenerational dialogue. 

The literary segment included poetry recitations in two sessions featuring poets Bhishma Upreti, Krishna Parsaee, Prajwal Adhikari, Rasik Raj, Rita Khatri, Peshal Luitel, and Asim Sagar.

The cultural segment, featuring dance and singing performances by talented youth students, created a joyful and delightful atmosphere.

A major highlight of the event was the Peace Ambassador Honor Ceremony, which recognized distinguished personalities including Amar Neupane, a renowned author and Madan Puraskar winner from Nepal; Shambhujeet Baskota, a senior music composer, lyricist, and singer; Mr. Sangharsa Bista; Pratishtha Amatya Bista, a prominent business leader and activist; Dr. Sonia Pradhan, a medical doctor; and Mr. Pramej Shrestha, representative of the Liberal Party from Barton, NSW Election.

Key speeches were delivered by Dr. Amar Neupane, Dr. Maheshraj Dahal, and former Ambassador to Australia from Nepal, and Mr. Shambhujeet Baskota, who shared an inspiring peace message emphasizing the importance of literature, culture, and peacebuilding in society. The program concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Santosh Paudel, Vice President of UPF Asia Pacific, who also shared the news regarding the nomination of UPF Founder Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Among distinguished guest speakers were Dr. Amar Neupane; Dr. Maheshraj Dahal, former Executive Chairman of Nepal Television and former Ambassador to Australia; and Mr. Shambhujeet Baskota. They reinforced the important role of creative expression in promoting peace and cross-cultural understanding between Nepal and neighboring countries. The program successfully strengthened the connection between literature and peace advocacy, and provided a meaningful platform for dialogue among intellectuals and peace leaders.