Ganeshman Singh’s Heartfelt Letter From Detention: A Father’s Advice to Son on Education and Sacrifice

In a poignant letter penned from the Sundarijal Military Political Detention Camp on August 15, 1968, Ganeshman Singh, the supreme commander of the people’s movement for restoration of democracy in 1990, expressed his deep affection and concern for his son, Prakash Man Singh.

Former Deputy Prime Minister and Nepali Congress Central Committee Member, Prakash Man Singh, represents Kathmandu Constituency no. 1 as a lawmaker.

Addressing Prakash as “my dear,” Ganeshman Singh apologized for the delayed delivery of the previous month’s letter. He conveyed his hope that the current letter would bring much joy and pleasure to his son. Singh recognized the immense significance of receiving a letter, especially from a father who had endured endless distress for a prolonged period.

 

गणेशमान बाॅ ले सुन्दरीजल जेलमा बस्नुहुदा छोरा प्रकाशमानलाई लेख्नुभएको चिठ्ठी।यो चिठ्ठी 1968 मा लेखिएको हो।कतीलाई थाहानहुनसक्छ वहालाई Oxford Dictionary कण्ठ थियो।छोराछोरीहरू English medium school मा पढ्ने तर grammer भने वहाले correction गर्नुहुन्थ्यो रे .. @PMSinghNC pic.twitter.com/rk5KCQyrNG

— Sirjana Singh (@Sirjana_Singh) July 17, 2020

He urged Prakash to prioritize his studies above all else, emphasizing that a student’s first and foremost duty should be dedicated to their academic pursuits. Singh believed that fulfilling one’s duty towards education was paramount to becoming a true student. He warned against the pitfalls of neglecting one’s studies, as it could lead to detrimental consequences for both the individual and the broader society.

Drawing from his own experiences in public life, Singh stressed the importance of dedicating oneself to noble causes without harboring grudges or malice. He highlighted that true success lay in the unrelenting sacrifice made for noble ideals, and he expressed satisfaction with his own contributions towards the betterment of the country.

Singh expressed unwavering pride in his son’s achievements and progress in his studies, emphasizing that such dedication was what he desired most from him. He encouraged Prakash to continue excelling in his academic pursuits, assuring him of his unwavering support and love.

The heartfelt letter from the late Ganeshman Singh to his son Prakash provides a touching glimpse into the relationship between a father and his child, even amidst the challenging circumstances of a political prison. It is a testament to the enduring bond of love and guidance that transcends all obstacles.

Ganesh Man Singh

An epitome of audacity and sacrifice in Nepali politics, Singh was revered as the centre of integrity by all.

He was one politician who declined the post of Prime Minister offered him by then King Birendra immediately after the success of the First People’s Movement of 1990, which Singh had spearheaded.

Leader Singh instead offered the high post to his contemporary, leader Krishna Prasad Bhattarai, as a show of his sacrifice.

Ganesh Man Singh was born on November 9, 1915 in Chhetrapati of Kathmandu and passed away on September 18, 1997.

Born in an aristocratic family, Singh became the member of Nepal’s first political party, the Praja Parishad, which was established in 1997 BS.

He actively dedicated himself in the campaign of removing the autocratic Rana rule from the country.

He was jailed by the Rana regime for participating in insurrection to overthrow the regime.

He escaped from the Bhadragol Prison through a drainpipe and went into political exile in India.

There he met BP Koirala another leader who was also waging a movement to overthrow the autocratic Rana regime.

He joined the Nepali Congress led by Koirala and later himself guided the party.

Singh was a veteran freedom fighter. He took part in the armed struggle in Birgunj front as one of the leaders of the 2007 revolution against the Ranarchy.

He made major contributions to Nepal. His long struggle to bring democracy in the country is well chronicled.

Leader Singh not only participated in the movement against the Rana regime, he actively fought against the party-less Panchayat regime as well.

He made continuous efforts for the establishment of democracy over the autocratic rule of Ranas and the Panchayat.

Because of his long struggles despite formidable adversities, Leader Singh completed his mission- establishment of democracy – two times, once in 2007 BS and next in 2047 BS.

This won him the title ‘Iron Man’ in Nepali politics. The late Ganesh Man Singh is also remembered as a politician of principles.

Recognizing his outstanding contribution in the field of Human Rights, Singh was honoured by the United Nations with the “Human Rights Award” in 1993.

He was the first Statesman from South Asia to receive this prestigious award. Leader Singh was honured with the “United States Peace Run Prize” in 1990 for his contribution to peace in Nepal and the world and his leadership quality.

He was also conferred with the “U Thant Peace Award”. The Nepali Congress, its sister and well-wisher organisations are commemorating the birth anniversary of the ‘Iron Man’ of Nepali politics by organising various programmes.