Children’s literature writer Janak Prasad Humagain has been announced as the recipient of the ‘2081 Bal Sahitya Ratna Shantadas Memorial Honor’. The decision to confer this award posthumously was made by a committee chaired by poet and critic Mahesh Paudyal.
Established in 2080 by Shailee Theatre, the honor will be awarded to Humagain posthumously, as confirmed by theatre president, dramatist, and director Navaraj Budhathoki.
Born in 1994 BS in Balthali, Kavrepalanchok, Humagain passed away on Magh 28, 2063 BS, due to throat cancer. His notable contributions to children’s literature include works such as Baa Aama Ko Maya, Gunila Panch Balkatha, Gokulki Aama Kasari Niko Bhain?, Malati Ko Yatra Barnan, Bhai Bahinika Katha, Nepali Bal Sahitya, Champa Ra Mayalu Kaka, Lahare Pipal Ko Katha, Nani Padchha, and Didi Bhai Ko Maya. Humagain also played a pioneering role in advocating for children’s rights.
The award will be presented on Thursday, Falgun 1, 2081 BS, during the opening ceremony of the 16th National Children’s Drama Festival and Short Children’s Film Exhibition organized by Shailee Theatre at the Russian House, Kamalpokhari. This was announced by the festival’s program coordinator, Kishor Anurag.
Previously, this honor was awarded to educationist and principal of Everest English Boarding School Bhakta Raj Bhandari.