Kathmandu: In a heartfelt gathering on Saturday, the Prof. Dr. Urmila Pyakurel Madhushree Foundation recognized and honored various personalities in the fields of literature and academia during its first annual general meeting held in Kathmandu. Among the honorees was the well-known literary figure Dr. Navaraj Lamsal, who received a special award for his contributions to Nepali literature.

The foundation was set up in memory of the late Prof. Dr. Urmila Pyakurel, who was also known as Madhushree in the literary world. She was a respected mathematician who passed away last year after a brave battle with cancer. The foundation’s president, Prof. Dr. Tankanath Dhamala, shared that they have started this foundation using the funds initially raised for her treatment, with the aim to support education, literature, and healthcare.

Dr. Navaraj Lamsal was honored for his significant role in uplifting Nepali literature, and students Dhruv Poudel and Bhuvaneshwari Giri were also awarded for their academic excellence in mathematics from Tribhuvan University. They, along with a few other talented students, received cash prizes and certificates.

On the same occasion, the foundation launched Madhurasa, a collection of Madhushree’s heartfelt songs and poems, as well as Takma, a novel written by her brother, Uddhav Pyakurel.

Senior cancer specialist Dr. Rajendra Prasad Baral, who was the chief guest, shared how Urmila’s strength and positivity during her illness inspired many around her. The event also saw fond recollections of Madhushree’s passion for literature and the arts, with several speakers praising her work for its deep connection to Nepali culture and tradition.

The event was a moving tribute to a woman who touched many lives through her work in both academia and literature.