Sanjivini Gurung, of Singdigaun, Lamjung, has bagged the title award at the National Open Poetry Competition organised as a part of the ongoing Lamjung Mahastov, in Besisahar, Lamjung. Gurung toppled a total of 30 contenders to win the title. With the awards, Gurung walked away with a cash purse of Rs 10, 000.

At the finale, Gurung, who hails from Damauli, Tahahu, recited a poem titled Sambodhan Pardesilai.

Gurung is an author of an anthology of ghazals, Sanjivani. The anthology comprises ghazals that touch upon themes ranging from patriotism and Nepali migrant employees to feminism.

Meanwhile, Sangita Khatri, of Beshisahar, won the second place, with a purse of Rs 7000, and Yamuna Neupane of Chitwan won the third place, with a purse of Rs 5,000.

The awards were presented jointly by the lyricist of national anthem, Pradeep Kumar Rai (Byakul Maila), coordinator of the fest, Rajkumar Shrestha, and the coordinator of literature sub-committee, Ben Bahadur Suyal.  Addressing the function, lyricist Rai said, “Functions like these help preserve and promote arts and culture of the region and also are instrumental in promoting tourism and development activities. Moreover, these kinds of fests and competitions help to bring forth the hidden talents in the district.”