The Madan Puraskar Guthi has awarded this year’s Madan Puraskar to writer Chuden Kabimo for his book ‘Urmaal’.

The book portrays the struggles of tea plantation workers in the Dooars, capturing their cultural and historical realities.

The Guthi had earlier shortlisted seven books from among 299 submissions for the 2081 award. Alongside Urmaal, the shortlisted works included ‘Chhaalbato’ by Ramesh Bhushal, ‘Darjyu Sanlap’ by Kumari Lama, ‘Panchatatwako Palam’ by Manprasad Subba, ‘Bahurupi’ by Shreyaj Subedi, and ‘Bhikshu, Byapar Ra Bidroha’ by Sudheer Sharma.

The award, established in 1955, is regarded as Nepal’s most prestigious literary honour. It recognises outstanding contributions to Nepali literature.

The meeting of the Guthi on Friday decided to honour Prem Dev Giri with the Jagadamba Shree Puraskar for his significant contribution to the collection and preservation of folk songs.