Renowned Nepali-language writer, poet, & painter Bikram Bir Thapa is currently facing serious health challenges and is in urgent need of support from the literary community and well-wishers. A prolific storyteller and cultural icon, Thapa has played an instrumental role in shaping Nepali literature in India, particularly within the Gorkha community of Meghalaya and beyond. Despite his immense contributions, he now finds himself in a difficult situation, highlighting the importance of collective acknowledgment and assistance for senior literary figures..
In 1999, his literary masterpiece, Bishaun Shatabdi Ki Monalisa, won the prestigious Sahitya Akademi Award in 1999, marking a milestone in his career. Recognized for his literary contributions, he was also honored with the Kanchenjunga National Award by Nepali Sahitya Parishad Sikkim.
Born on 22 February 1948 in Shillong, Meghalaya, Bikram Bir Thapa has dedicated his life to storytelling, painting, and community upliftment. His father, Raghuvir Thapa Magar, a retired Gurkha Subedar, passed away when he was just four years old, leaving his mother, Kaushalya Devi Thapa Magar, to raise him.
Thapa’s life took a turn toward national service when he joined the Indian Army on 16 May 1968, as part of the 5th Gorkha Rifles (Frontier Force). He actively participated in the Bangladesh Liberation War, a testament to his deep sense of patriotism and duty. Even while serving in the army, his passion for literature remained unwavering.\
Bikram Bir Thapa’s literary journey began in 1969 when he published his first short story, Communist, in Shillong’s Tarun newspaper. Over the years, he established himself as a leading voice in Nepali literature, exploring themes of identity, cultural struggles, and history through his works. His novel Teestadekhi Sutlejsamma critically examines the identity crisis faced by the Indian Gorkhas, while his 1983 novel Bigatko Parivesh Bhitra is set against the backdrop of his hometown.
However, at this stage in his life, the veteran writer is reportedly struggling with health issues and has expressed the need for moral and emotional support from the community. Despite his significant contributions, Thapa has found himself in a difficult situation, highlighting the importance of collective acknowledgment and support for senior cultural figures.
Well-wishers, literary enthusiasts, and members of the Gorkha community are encouraged to extend their support by visiting him and expressing their appreciation for his lifelong dedication to literature and the arts. At a time when cultural preservation remains a challenge, the opportunity to honor and support a literary stalwart serves as a reminder of the role that writers and artists play in shaping community identity.
Those wishing to extend their support or get in touch with him can contact indiakogorkha@gmail.com. A small gesture of kindness—whether through a visit, a message, or moral support—can go a long way in providing encouragement to a literary legend who has dedicated his life to storytelling and cultural preservation.