Motiram Jayanti

Every year on Kushe Aunsi tithi (the new moon day of the month of Bhadra), we celebrate Motiram Jayanti. This day is the birth anniversary of one of the most influential literary figures in Nepali history, Motiram Bhatta. This day honors his contributions to the development of modern Nepali literature, journalism, and poetry.

Recognized as a Rastriya Bibhuti (National Hero), Motiram Bhatta is also fondly remembered as the Yuba Kabi, the “Youth Poet.” In his poetic compositions, he frequently used Sringara rasa (the aesthetic of romantic and emotional love). He is widely credited with introducing prose writing into the Nepali literary tradition.

Life and Background

Motiram Bhatta was born on 8 September 1866 (25 Bhadra 1923 B.S.). He took his first breath on the auspicious day of Kushe Aunsi (Father’s Day in Nepal), in Bhosiko Tole, Kathmandu, Nepal. He was the second son of Pandit Daya Ram Bhatta and Ripu Mardini Devi Bhatta. From an early age, he had a deep interest in language and literature.

When he was 15 years old, he went to Varanasi, India, where he studied Sanskrit, Persian, and Urdu. There, he gained a broad exposure to South Asian literary traditions. Bhatta passed away on the same day he was born, Bhadra 25, 1953 B.S., on Kushe Aunsi.

Key Contributions

1. Rediscovered Bhanubhakta Acharya

One of Motiram Bhatta’s most celebrated achievements is his role in rediscovering and popularizing Bhanubhakta Acharya, who is known as the first poet of Nepal. He compiled Bhanu Bhakta’s scattered manuscripts, wrote his biography, and published his works, ensuring that Bhanu Bhakta’s contributions became accessible and appreciated by the general public.

2. Introduction of the Ghazal in Nepali

Bhatta first introduced the Ghazal form of poetry into the Nepali language. He drew inspiration from Persian and Urdu literary traditions and blended lyrical romanticism with local cultural sensibilities.

3. Pioneer of Literary Journalism

Motiram was also a pioneer in literary journalism in Nepal. He published a literary magazine titled Gorkha Bharat Jeevan. These publications provided a platform for emerging Nepali writers and helped formalize literary discourse in Nepal.

4. Versatile Writer and Editor

Motiram Bhatta authored and edited a wide range of literary works, from poetry to biography to playwriting. His writing style was emotional, fluent, and deeply expressive, often exploring themes of love, devotion, and cultural identity. Some of the works he authored include Shakuntal, Kabi Bhanubhakta Ko Jivan Charitra, Padmavati, Teej Ko Katha, and Gajendra Moksha, among many others.

Conclusion

Though he lived only three decades, Motiram Bhatta’s contributions to Nepali literature were foundational. He bridged the past and the present, brought forgotten poets to light, and gave voice to a modern Nepali identity through his writings. Motiram Jayanti is more than a tribute, it is an annual reaffirmation of Nepal’s rich literary heritage and a call to nurture it for future generations.