Today, on the 8th of Poush, marks the 101st birth anniversary of the founding leader of the Nepali Congress, Krishna Prasad Bhattarai. The Nepali Congress, along with its fraternal and well-wishing organizations, are commemorating the legacy of the statesman through various programs.
In the year 2047 BS, Bhattarai, who had become the Prime Minister of the interim government, returned from the Prime Minister’s residence in 2048 BS with a tank, a pitcher, and an umbrella to settle in Kupondole Dera. While many politicians around the world do not openly declare their goal of attaining enlightenment upon becoming Prime Minister, Bhattarai openly stated his goal of achieving nirvana, reminiscent of Swami Anand Arun.
During his tenure as Prime Minister, Bhattarai inaugurated Osho Tapovan in Kathmandu, where he would often go to meditate. Known for his unwavering dedication and firm political stance, Bhattarai’s imprisonment during the time of the Bharatpur jailbreak, as signed by the then government, remains a fresh memory in his legacy. His commitment to principles and resilience in the face of challenges are qualities that continue to be admired and praised.
“Kisunji never hesitated to speak the truth in politics, even if it meant revealing his vulnerabilities. He may not have married, but his honest and clear communication as a politician has established him as a figure to be reckoned with. Despite being confined, he did not travel to India, instead choosing to establish the Nepal Student Union while remaining in Nepal, spending an additional three years behind bars,” remarked Anand Arun. Kisunji is recognized not just as a pacifist leader but also as a spiritual guide, akin to Mahatma Gandhi.
To commemorate Kisunji’s centenary birth year, the establishment of the ‘Santaneta Krishna Prasad Bhattarai Center’ last year by its chairperson Lokesh Dhakal aims to promote and propagate the contributions made by him towards principled politics and the country’s development.
“Why did Kisunji, who founded the party himself, shed tears and leave, abandoning it? Only upon searching for the reasons behind this will true respect be shown to him. He did not leave the party out of disrespect, nor did he abandon his ideals. The center was established to honor him,” said chairperson Dhakal.
Having actively participated in the movement to reinstate democracy, Purushottam Dahal, a senior journalist who worked closely with Kisunji, emphasizes that Kisunji was never swayed by power or money, and his integrity as a politician is well recognized.
