Manjul Kumar Singh Yakthumba's memoir titled 'Prashasan-Samaj-Itihas' was released amidst a ceremony on Saturday.
Former Chancellor of Nepal Academy and senior litterateur Bairagi Kainla, who was invited as the chief guest of the program, made public the memoir at a program organized at Sayalbatika in Tikhedewal, Lalitpur.
Releasing the 352-page memoir containing 77 articles by various authors, former Chancellor Kainla remembered Yakthumba as a thoughtful and analytical individual who carefully considered his decisions, and once made, he would remain unwavering.
"He was a resolute and disciplined civil servant with a deep love for Kirat/Limbu culture and history. Following his career as a civil servant, he dedicated his life to social service, particularly focusing on the upliftment and preservation of Kirat/Limbu culture, customs, and history," said Kainla
Kainla further said that Yakthumba played a crucial role in uniting Kirat Yakthung Chumlung, Kirat Rai Yayokkha, Kirat Yakkha Chhumma, and Sunuwar Sewa Samaj by fostering a shared commitment to the Kirat-Sirijanga script, the Kirat religion, and the celebration of Ubhauli and Udhauli festivals.
"He played a pivotal role in leading a movement to establish a public holiday for the festival and ultimately achieving government recognition," said he, "His achievements are a testament to his dedication, and his path serves as an inspiring example for others to follow."
Speaking on the occasion, former Minister and Ambassador Deep Kumar Upadhyaya, who was invited as the special guest of the program, remembered Yakthumba as an exemplary civil servant, renowned for his dedication, integrity, and commitment to serving the needs of the people. He highlighted Yakthumba's strong administrative skills, tireless work ethic, and his unwavering commitment to justice and fairness.
Recalling his tenure as Chief District Officer in Kapilvastu, Upadhyaya stated, "When he was transferred, the community, from young to old, expressed concern about his departure. This clearly demonstrates his beloved character, his dedication to serving the common people, and his commitment to justice during his relatively short time as CDO in the district."
Similarly, Prem Yekten, the chairperson of Kirat Yakthung Chumlung, lauded Yakthumba's contribution to his selfless service toward Kirat/Limbu culture, history by making Kirat Yakthung Chumlung more systematic, stable, and vibrant, and thanked all the editorial group, advisory group and the article contributors on behalf of the KYC as the publisher.
Likewise, Mukhang Yakthumba, the son of Manjul Yakthumba, addressed the gathering with a warm welcome speech. Dr Kamal Tigela, who played a pivotal role in producing the memoir, Raj Bahadur Rai, Lalitpur Metropolitan City Mayor Chiribabu Maharjan also expressed their views on the occasion.
After a distinguished career in civil service spanning 38 years, rising from Nayab Subba to Undersecretary, Yakthumba served as the chairperson of Kirat Yakthung Chumlung (KYC) for approximately 14 years.
He is also the author of four books: 'Maulik Kirat Dharma Sanskar' (2062), 'Kirat Tirthasthal Sano Hattiban' (2066), 'Mundhum Ra Mithakharu' (2070), and 'Ko Hun Kirat Ra Kirat Limbu? Ke Ho Yumadharma?' (2075)." Yakthumba, who was born on Jestha 23, 1992 BS in Tikhedewal, Lalitpur Metropolitan City-14, passed away on Kartik 12, 2080 BS.
Retired lieutenant generals of the Nepali Army including Phatte Bahadur Limbu, former high-ranking government officials including Bhagi Raj Ingnam, chairpersons of social organizations including Dr Madan Piya, national anthem writer Byakul Maila, intellectuals, journalists among others participated in the program.
Chaired by Mrs Bimala Yakthumba, the spouse of late Yakthumba, the program was emceed by Ms Indu Phombo.
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