Permanent Stage at Ranke Mela Ends Years of Struggle

The Ranke Mela, a historic and cultural heritage site in eastern Nepal, has finally overcome its long-standing problem of not having a permanent stage. The inauguration of the Swargiya Krishnabahadur Khajum Memorial Stage at the Ranke Mela premises in Panchakanya, Chhathar Gaunpalika-3, Tehrathum, has made it easier to organize sports, cultural, and public events.

The stage, built at a cost of Rs 6.75 million by the Swargiya Krishnabahadur Khajum Memorial Foundation, was handed over to the Chhathar Gaunpalika-3 ward office. The handover ceremony was attended by Gaunpalika Chairman Santosh Tigel, who praised the private initiative to build public infrastructure, saying it would contribute significantly to the social and cultural development of the village.

Every year, the Ranke Mela, which takes place on the occasion of Shrawan 6, had to be organized with temporary stages made of bamboo, wood, and tents. However, these stages would often get damaged due to rain and wind, incurring additional expenses and causing inconvenience in organizing events. The new permanent stage has put an end to these problems, according to Ward Chairman Deuman Limbu.

Historic Event Gets a Boost

Jurendra Khajum, chairman of the Swargiya Krishnabahadur Khajum Memorial Foundation, who resides in the UK, said that the need for a permanent stage at the historic Ranke Mela had been felt for a long time. He said that the foundation had built the stage to commemorate his father’s memory and to serve the community.

Ranke Mela Management Committee Chairman Faudaraj Limbu said that the construction of the stage would make the management of the mela more organized. He added that the new stage would save time, manpower, and budget, and would also enable the effective organization of sports and cultural events.

Local resident Dilakiran Khajum praised the contribution made by the Khajum family to the community, saying it was an inspiring example for rural society. He said that such initiatives would increase ownership of development and strengthen community unity.

The construction of the stage has sent a positive message to the community, showing that not all structures in the village need to be built using government funds. The Khajum family’s initiative has demonstrated that private investment can also contribute to community development.

The new stage has made it easier to organize cultural and sports events during the Ranke Mela, which is celebrated on Ashar 29, 2083.