Mahakavi Laxmi Prasad Devkota Jayanti

Every year on Krishna Aunsi, the day of Laxmi Puja, Mahakavi Laxmi Prasad Devkota Jayanti is observed to honor one of Nepal’s most respected literary figures. Devkota was awarded the title “Mahakavi,” meaning “Great Poet,” in recognition of his wide-ranging talent. He made a lasting impact in poetry, essays, drama, prose, translation, and children’s literature. His work was not confined to literature alone, as his writings also reflect themes of social consciousness, humanism, and national identity.

Early Life and Education

Devkota was born in 1966 B.S. in Dillibazar, Kathmandu, on the day of Laxmi Puja. It is believed that he was named Laxmi Prasad because of this auspicious birth date. From an early age, he showed signs of exceptional brilliance. He completed his formal education in English literature and held a strong command over Nepali, Sanskrit, and English languages.

His Literary Journey

His literary creations gave Nepali literature a new direction. The epic poem Muna Madan is one of the most widely read and beloved works in the Nepali language. It captures themes of love, suffering, and sacrifice in a simple and powerful way. In Pagal (Lunatic), Devkota explores deep philosophical questions through a personal and emotional lens. Other epics such as Sulochana, Shakuntala, and Sati are based on mythological stories but are presented with modern sensibilities.

Devkota also made important contributions in drama, essays, and children’s literature. His plays like Agni Kosh and Mrityu Paryanta raise critical issues of justice, ethics, and social conflict. In essays such as Humanity, Education, and Patriotism, he offered insightful reflections on the state of society. His children’s stories, including Bhakta Bahadur and Mero Kukur, combine simple language with meaningful lessons.

Through his translations of Shakespeare’s plays into Nepali, Devkota introduced global literary works to Nepali audiences. His contributions across these various genres remain relevant and respected even today.

Social Awareness and Human Values

Devkota was more than just a literary figure. He was also a thinker with a deep concern for social issues. His writing often addressed poverty, inequality, and caste-based discrimination. His strong belief in human dignity shaped his work, which was written with the intention of reaching and uplifting ordinary people. His ability to communicate complex ideas in accessible language made his voice both powerful and unique.

Champion of Literary Modernity

Devkota played a key role in modernizing Nepali literature. He broke away from traditional forms and included personal experiences, scientific reasoning, and social awareness in his works. His writings brought new approaches to language, style, and subject matter, helping Nepali literature evolve with time.

Devkota’s thoughts, emotions, and creativity continue to inspire new generations. His works encourage people to think critically, ask meaningful questions, and work toward positive change. His words still serve as a guiding light for society. Even now the spirit of his literature and humanism remains strong.