GANGTOK: The Government of Sikkim, with deep sorrow, observed the funeral and final rites (Mechöed) of Padma Shri Gadul Singh Lama, fondly known as Sanu Lama, at the Dechenling Crematorium on Friday.
The distinguished writer, translator, and public intellectual passed away on Saturday, July 12, 2025, in Siliguri. His passing marks the end of a luminous chapter in the cultural and literary history of Sikkim.
As a mark of utmost respect and recognition of his outstanding contributions to Sikkimese literature, culture, and public service, the State Government had earlier announced that his final rites would be conducted with full State honours vide Circular No.01/Home/2025 Dated: 15/07/2025. In continuation of this tribute, Government employees and those from State Public Sector Undertakings were allowed to attend the funeral to pay their last respects, with prior approval from their respective Heads of Departments.
The cortège commenced from his residence, Phul Chandra Niwas at Development Area, in the early hours of the day, and made its way through key cultural landmarks, symbolically acknowledging his deep-rooted influence on the State’s intellectual heritage. The procession culminated at Dechenling, where the final rites were performed amidst an atmosphere of solemnity and reverence.
The funeral was attended by the Chief Minister of Sikkim, Prem Singh Tamang, along with Cabinet Ministers, Advisor-cum-MLAs, Advisors to the Chief Minister, Chairpersons, Heads of Departments, senior government officials, and members of the general public. Their collective presence reflected the State’s unified expression of admiration, respect, and gratitude toward one of its most cherished sons.
In a moving tribute, the Sikkim Armed Police accorded a 21-gun salute to the departed soul, in keeping with ceremonial State honours. The national flag, draped respectfully over the late Padma Shri awardee’s coffin, was formally handed over by the Sikkim Armed Police to the Chief Minister, who, on behalf of the State Government, presented it to the bereaved family, notably his son, as a mark of official reverence.
As a part of the proceedings, the emotionally stirring composition “Jaha Bagcha Teesta Rangeet…”, authored by the late Sanu Lama himself, was performed.
Mr Dawa Tamang Lama, the man who lent his voice to the original iconic lyrics, was also present, singing the last tribute that deeply resonated with those in attendance. The first performance of this legendary song took place on April 4, 1970, during the birthday celebration of the Late Chogyal Palden Thondup Namgyal.
Members of civil society also joined in offering homage, recollecting his life’s work, literary contributions, and his role in shaping Sikkim’s modern cultural identity.
From his early years as a pioneering voice in Nepali-language literature to becoming a towering figure in regional letters, Gadul Singh Lama’s life was devoted to the enrichment of Sikkim’s linguistic and cultural landscape. His literary oeuvre spanned poetry, short stories, translation, and essays, leaving a lasting imprint on generations of writers, thinkers, and readers.
The observance of full State honour serves as a testament to the Government’s profound respect for the legacy of Padma Shri Lama—a man whose quiet dedication to public service and literary excellence elevated the collective identity of Sikkim.
As the sacred flames of the funeral pyre rose against the serene backdrop of Dechenling, the State bid farewell to a cultural stalwart whose memory shall remain etched in the consciousness of Sikkim and the nation at large.
- IPR Report
