GANGTOK, (IPR): The 173rd birth anniversary of Padri Ganga Prasad Pradhan was celebrated in the mini theatre of Manan Kendra, Gangtok today.
GT Dhungel, minister for Health and Family Welfare and Culture departments graced the occasion as the chief guest.
The programme organised by ‘Padri Ganga Prasad Pradhan Prathisthan Sikkim’ was also attended by Jacob Khaling, former political secretary to the Chief Minister, Nakul Das Rai, former Member of Parliament, MT Sherpa, secretary, Urban Development department, senior pastors, dignitaries, distinguished members of the community and members of the Padri Ganga Prasad Pradhan Prathisthan.
Addressing the gathering, chief guest GT Dhungel spoke about legacy of Padri Ganga Prasad Pradhan, paying homage to his rich work in uplifting the Christian society as well as the Gorkha community.
Dhungel spoke on the importance of Bible in Nepali language to cater to the masses. He further highlighted that Padri Ganga Prasad Pradhan, who was the first pastor from the Nepali community, was also the first journalist to print a Nepali newspaper called ‘Gorkhey Khabar Kagaj.’
The foundation felicitated GT Dhungel and Jacob Khaling, recognising their work in the society and also presented Nakul Das Rai with a memento.
The ‘Padri Ganga Prasad Pradhan Prathisthan’ presented the following awards:
1. Rev PS Timbo of EPCS Church, Gangtok in the field of religion and spirituality
2. Elder John Dick Khawas in the field of music
3. Rev C Sodemba in the field of social work
4. Mingma Sherpa of Lum Government School, Dzongu in the field of education
5. Tek Bahadur Gurung (Tamu) in the field of literature
6. Arpan Pradhan in the field of journalism
Earlier, the programme commenced with an offering of prayer by Pastor Silas Rai.
GT Dhungel, along with other distinguished guests, paid homage to Late Padri Ganga Prasad Pradhan by offering ‘khadas’ to his portrait.
The welcome address was presented by Kamal Chamling ‘Kamrangay’, president of the Padri Ganga Prasad Pradhan Prathisthan.
The programme had various presentations which included a song composed by Padri Ganga Prasad Pradhan, presented by the choir group of EPCS Gangtok, reading of a verse from the Bible translated by Padri by Kyamuna Pradhan. Furthermore, Chuni Lal Ghimirey presented a brief biography of Padri along with a short film highlighting Padri’s works and Merina Bhutia offered a devotional song in remembrance of the Padri.
Additionally, a poem written by Padri was recited by Krista Tseten Lepcha and a musical presentation was performed by Elder John Dick Khawas.
The vote of thanks was proposed by Pravin Khaling, publicity secretary. The programme concluded with a prayer and blessings by pastor Solomon Shankar.