Travel writer Jiba Lamichhane has been awarded the Uttam Shanti Puraskar -2081 for his book Akshat Antarctica. The work has been praised for its innovative perspective, compelling narrative technique, and fresh literary style. The award was presented to Lamichhane by the Uttam Kunwar Memorial Award Trust during a special ceremony held in the capital.
Established in 2044 BS in memory of renowned essayist Uttam Kunwar, the award carries a cash prize of Rs. 100,000. It is conferred annually on an outstanding work of non-fiction published within the year in genres such as essays, memoirs, biographies, and autobiographies.
Following Kunwar’s untimely death at the age of 43 in 1982, the award was instituted by his wife, Shanti Kunwar, to preserve his literary legacy.
The event was hosted by writer Nayanraj Pandey, while literary critic Gyanu Pandey described Akshat Antarctica as more than just a travel memoir. He noted that the book contributes significantly to Nepali literature as a narrative encompassing knowledge, science, and environmental concerns.
During the ceremony, author Padmawati Singh spoke about the late Uttam Kunwar—Madan Puraskar laureate and editor of Ruprekha magazine—as well as about Shanti Kunwar. Similarly, author and critic Vasudev Tripathi also paid tribute to Kunwar’s contributions to Nepali literature.
Dr. Parthiweshwar Prasad Timilsina, chair of the prize selection committee, remarked that Akshat Antarctica offers an adventurous travelogue of Antarctica, presented with innovative thought, engaging craftsmanship, and a distinctive literary style. He emphasized the book’s powerful engagement with global environmental issues as a key reason for Lamichhane’s selection.
