Bhanubhakta Acharya (1814–1868), reverently known as “Adikavi” (The First Poet), is credited with being the founding father of Nepali poetry. He was the first poet to write in the Nepali language in a structured literary form, elevating Nepali from a spoken vernacular to a written literary medium. His Nepali translation of the Sanskrit Ramayana made religious and literary texts accessible to common Nepalis for the first time, earning him a permanent place in Nepal’s cultural and literary history.

Biographical Overview

Bhanubhakta belonged to a Brahmin family with a strong background in Sanskrit. Despite this, he chose to write in the common language of the people—Nepali—which made him a revolutionary figure in Nepali literature.

Literary Contributions

1. Nepali Translation of the Ramayana

• Bhanubhakta’s most monumental work is his epic translation of Valmiki’s Sanskrit Ramayana into Nepali verse.

• He used simple, poetic, and rhythmic Nepali that ordinary people could understand.

• His Ramayana helped bring Hindu religious education to the masses, bypassing the elite Sanskrit-speaking class.

2. Ghansi Ko Katha (The Grasscutter’s Story)

• A motivational poem based on a real-life incident.

• Tells the story of a humble grasscutter (ghansi) who wished to contribute to society by digging a public well.

• The poem emphasizes the value of leaving a legacy and serving the public, inspiring Bhanubhakta to use his literary talent for the good of others.

Famous Lines (translated):
“A ghansi carved his name through a public deed,
But I, though educated, have done nothing of worth indeed.”

3. Other Poetic Works

• Short poems on themes of devotion, morality, nature, and nationalism.

• Emphasized simple living, ethical conduct, and social responsibility.

• Used metered verse forms (such as Jhyaure and Padyas) popular among common people.

Themes and Literary Style

Key Themes:

• Bhakti (Devotion): His poetry reflects deep spiritual devotion, particularly toward Lord Rama.

• National Unity: Promoted a collective Nepali identity through shared language and cultural values.

• Education and Service: Emphasized that knowledge should benefit society, not just oneself.

• Moral Integrity: Advocated for truth, humility, and legacy over material success.

Literary Characteristics:

• Structured in metrical verse, influenced by Sanskrit prosody but simplified.

• Blended classical form with folk accessibility.

• Pioneered the use of vernacular Nepali as a tool of mass education and cultural pride.

Legacy and Honors

 Bhanubhakta Jayanti (Birth Anniversary)

• Celebrated every 27th of Ashadh (mid-July) across Nepal and Nepali-speaking communities in India (Darjeeling, Sikkim) and abroad.

• Events include:

  • Poetry recitations

  • Essay competitions

  • Cultural programs

  • Garlanding of Bhanubhakta’s statues

Memorials and Statues

• Statue in Kathmandu (Ghantaghar area) near the Nepal Academy

• Bhanubhakta Campus, Bhanubhakta Adarsha College, and many schools and parks named in his honor

• Chundi Ramgha, his birthplace, is a national literary heritage site

Interesting Facts About Bhanubhakta Acharya

• His Ramayana was published posthumously by Motiram Bhatta, who discovered and compiled his manuscripts.

• Despite being a devout Hindu, Bhanubhakta used his writing to promote secular values and social unity.

• Wrote poetry during his imprisonment, showing resilience and commitment to literature even in hardship.

• Inspired many later poets such as Motiram Bhatta, Laxmi Prasad Devkota, and Gopal Prasad Rimal.

Death and Posthumous Fame

• Bhanubhakta passed away in 1868 (1925 BS) with little recognition during his lifetime.

• It was only later, through the efforts of Motiram Bhatta, that Bhanubhakta’s legacy was preserved and celebrated.

• Today, he is remembered as the foundation stone of Nepali literature and a national literary hero.

Conclusion: Why Bhanubhakta Is Known as Adikavi

Bhanubhakta Acharya is called Adikavi because he was the first poet to elevate Nepali language into literary prominence. Through his translation of the Ramayana, his motivational poetry, and his vision of equality through language, he inspired a cultural renaissance.

He democratized literature in Nepal by writing for the people, in the people’s language, and gave Nepalis a literary identity they could call their own.