Khem Nath Dahal Receives Tika Gopal National Song and Music Award–2083
Cinepatra/Kathmandu
Eminent Nepali litterateur, epic poet and lyricist Khem Nath Dahal has been honoured with the Tika Gopal National Song and Music Award–2083 in recognition of his contributions to Nepali literature, music and creative arts.
The award was presented at a special समारोह organised by Milap Monthly in Kathmandu, with veteran artists Chaitadevi Singh, Basundhara Bhusal and Bhuvan Chand attending as chief guests.
Established by renowned singer and music composer Kanhaiya Singh and singer Anjana Gurung in memory of their parents, Tika and Gopal, the award recognises individuals who have made significant contributions to the promotion and development of Nepali songs and music.
Dahal was presented with a copper plaque, traditional shawl, khada, rudraksha garland and cash prize. The award was jointly presented by the chief guests, Milap Monthly Editor and programme chair Krishna Bhusal, Tika-Gopal Foundation Chairperson Geeta Singh, and renowned music composer Santosh Shrestha, among others.
Speaking on the occasion, Foundation Chairperson Geeta Singh said Dahal was selected for his contribution to Nepali literature through his creative exploration of culture, philosophy, society and human emotions.
Expressing gratitude to the organisers, Dahal said he had never pursued literary creation with the intention of receiving awards or recognition. He added that the honours he had received were the outcome of his continued dedication to creative work.
A multifaceted literary figure, Dahal has contributed to several genres of Nepali literature, including poetry, epic poetry, fiction, travel writing and literary criticism.
His published works include Shraddhanjali, Rashmi, Yoddha, Harvardko Chautarima, Shwetpatra, Ma Ta Bandi Bhayeko Chhu, Yatrako Sidi, Ahoratra and Srijanama Drishti.
His literary contributions have also been examined in several critical and research-based publications, including Nava Chhayavadko Chhavi, Khem Nath Dahal: Srijana ra Mulyankan and Samalochana Vrittama Khem Nath Dahal. His literary profiles and cover stories have appeared in publications such as Milap, Janamat and Bagar.
Beyond literature, Dahal has also made contributions to Nepali music through his album Jagriti, which features songs based on his epic Shwetpatra and poetic work Yoddha.
The album includes songs such as “Buddhako Desh Nepal,” “Laliguras Ko Sato,” “Bitchha Bihan Aamako,” “Phulchha Bagma Phool” and “Gaunchhau Aba Lau Aamaka Geet.”
Renowned singer and composer Santosh Shrestha has lent his voice to three tracks: “Buddhako Desh Nepal,” “Laliguras Ko Sato” and “Phulchha Bagma Phool.” Similarly, Gyanu Rana has sung “Bitchha Bihan Aamako,” while Ramesh Pathak has performed “Gaunchhau Aba Lau Aamaka Geet.”
The Tika Gopal National Song and Music Award was established to promote Nepali music and recognise the contributions of artists and creators. Previously, the award was presented to renowned music composer Santosh Shrestha and distinguished lyricist Dr. Upadhyay.
The organisers said Dahal’s recognition reflects the importance of encouraging creative practitioners who continue to enrich Nepal’s literary and musical heritage.
