Writer and researcher Sandhya Singzango (Subba) from Assam Lingzey, Pakyong, Sikkim, has been awarded the Pratibha Puraskar 2025, a prestigious recognition conferred by Nepali Pratibha Pratisthan UK under the leadership of Shri Tanka Wanem (UK). The award, which includes a cash prize of Rs. 1 lakh, was presented by eminent writer Shri Bairagi Kainla (Tilbikram Nembang). Notably, Sandhya is the first overseas recipient of this honor.
A distinguished researcher in Limbu literature and academia, Sandhya has made significant contributions through her scholarly works. Her notable publications include:
- Limbu Shamans: A Directory of Limbu Shamans in Sikkim (2022)
- Yakthung Civilization (2023), a collection of academic articles
- English translations of Mundhum volumes, including Chaiit Mundhum: The Story of Creation and Mujingna Kheyongna Mundhum (2022), originally compiled by Bairagi Kainla
- Yakthung Mundhumlore (2024), featuring twenty stories extracted and compiled from the rich legacy of Yakthung Mundhum, offering profound insights into Limbu history and cultural values
In recognition of her academic excellence, Sandhya received the Bishnu Dutt-Saraswati Angbuhang Anusandhanvriti grant from the Limbu Study Centre, Kathmandu, in 2024. She also demonstrated her poetic talent by securing third place at the 32nd National Poetry Festival organized by the Bimal Gurung Memorial Library in Dharan, Nepal.
Beyond literature, she has actively contributed to Limbu cultural preservation, serving as General Secretary of Sukhim Pungwa Yuma Samyo Society and Sukhim Yakthung Chasok Tongnam Lokchum. Currently, she is engaged in ongoing research on Yakthung Civilization and translating additional volumes of ‘Mundhum’ into English.
Her relentless dedication to preserving and promoting Limbu literature and culture makes her a truly deserving recipient of the Pratibha Puraskar 2025.
