I am sure this prize hasn't been given to me because of geography, race, religion, relation or any other narrow-minded reason. It has been given to me because I am a Nepali. When an entire Nepali nation flowers in the heart, that is Nepaliness. It doesn't recognize ethnicity, community, territory, or other descriptions. The meaning of having Nepal in your heart is that your heart hurts when another part of Nepal is in pain. This prize has given me and other writers the message that our creations need to cry out loud about the pain in the Nepali soul. Words should work their magic to wipe the tears of sorrow from the faces of Nepalis and change them to smiles.

Writers need to show independence and integrity, and adhere to a higher moral calling. The 'form' in our writing must reflect contemporary life, its complexity and sensitivity. We must combine form with function and exercise aesthetic judgement, aesthetic expression, aesthetic pleasure and harmony. These are our creative responsibilities to the nation and society.

I dream that one day Nepal's many languages will all be robust and rich and contribute to a solid and united Nepali nation. Incorporating the vocabulary of other national languages will enlarge the mother soul of Nepali, and allow it to reflect Nepali society in all its diversity and facets.

For more than half a century, I have nurtured the dream that Nepali literature will be a rainbow whole of many hues that reflects this country's true essence. When I see the explosion of creativity among Nepali writers, I feel assured that I will see my dream fulfilled before I leave this world.Thank you.

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