The biography “Smritima Bhim Bahadur,” which details the life of Bhim Bahadur Shrestha, a prominent social activist involved in education, irrigation, and the construction of temples and ponds in Taplejung, has been published.
The book was launched at a ceremony organized by the Smriti Granth Publication Committee in the capital, with former Chief Election Commissioner Surya Prasad Shrestha and House of Representatives members Sushila Shrestha and Liladevi Bokhim Limbu in attendance.
During the event, Surya Prasad Shrestha highlighted Bhim Bahadur Shrestha’s significant role in establishing Bhanu School in Taplejung. He recounted Bhim Bahadur’s travels to Darjeeling to recruit teachers, how he ensured their salaries, raised funds for school buildings, and organized relief efforts during famines. He emphasized that Bhim Bahadur’s actions fostered education and established him as a figure of great foresight in the community.
MP Sushila Shrestha acknowledged Bhim Bahadur’s understanding of the importance of education. She noted that since 2009 BS, his step-daughter Indrakumari (Krishna Laxmi) played a pivotal role in advancing both business and social services, becoming Taplejung’s first photographer.
Lawmaker Bokhim praised Bhim Bahadur’s contributions, noting that his efforts paved the way for the emergence of leaders and educated individuals in Taplejung.
Tanka Shrestha, the book’s editor, discussed Bhim Bahadur Shrestha’s extensive work in social service and politics, from being a professional photographer in 2009 BS to holding various elected positions in subsequent years.
Former headmaster Tularam Gurung fondly remembered being appointed as a school teacher by Bhim Bahadur, recalling the modest salary of Rs. 110 rupees. He dedicated 40 years to the education sector following this appointment.
Sharu Joshi, a founding member of Anter-Pusta Mahilabadi Mancha, praised Bhim Bahadur’s dedication to education and social service, noting his encouragement of higher education and training. She highlighted Bhim Bahadur’s lasting impact on contemporary and future generations.
The book, published eight years after his passing, contains contributions from a hundred individuals. Bhim Bahadur Shrestha’s contributions to irrigation and community development led residents to name an irrigation canal after him, calling it “Bhim Bahadur Kulo.”
