Gangtok, Jul 18 – The funeral of Padma Shri awardee and esteemed Sikkimese literary figure, Gadul Singh Lama, widely known as Sanu Lama, took place on Friday with full state honours, following Buddhist customs.

Lama passed away on July 12 in Siliguri, West Bengal, due to age-related health issues at the age of 86. He was a prolific fiction writer, poet, and translator of Nepali literature. Professionally an engineer, Lama authored three anthologies of short stories, which have been translated into multiple languages, including English, Hindi, Urdu, Assamese, and Oriya.

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang led the tributes, expressing profound sorrow over the loss of one of the state’s most esteemed intellectuals. In a heartfelt message on his official Facebook page, the Chief Minister referred to Lama as a “towering literary figure and revered son of Sikkim,” highlighting his significant contributions to literature, culture, and public service that have made a lasting impact.

“In his passing, we have lost a celebrated writer and thinker whose contributions have left an indelible mark on our collective conscience,” the Chief Minister stated, extending condolences to the grieving family.

The funeral was attended by cabinet ministers, MLAs, senior government officials, dignitaries, and members of the local community, all coming together to pay tribute to his remarkable life and enduring legacy.