On March 13 2025, In a vibrant and culturally rich celebration held on the occasion of Fagu Purnima, the Mithila Natya Kala Parishad (MINAP) organized its traditional “Mahamurkh Conference,” an event it has been hosting for the past 28 years. The two-day festival included folk music, satirical drama, Holi singing, and a humorous award ceremony that has become a celebrated part of Mithila’s cultural identity.
In this year’s special edition, Sambad Foundation’s Central President, Kumar Bhaskar, was honored with the “Targhuska Murkh” title, a symbolic and satirical award presented as a tribute to individuals contributing remarkably in their respective fields. The recognition was conferred during the public Holi celebrations at the historic Ram Mandir premises in Janakpurdham. The program awarded a total of 12 traditional satirical titles. The Chief Minister of Madhesh Province, Satish Singh, received the main title of “Maha-murkh,” while celebrated writer and lyricist Siyarama Jha Sars was honored with the “Patmurkh” title.
Other notable honorees included:
Kishori Sah, Deputy Mayor of Janakpurdham Sub-Metropolitan City – Harashankh
Ramrijhan Yadav, senior journalist and former Press Advisor to the Prime Minister – Dhorhashankar
Rajesh Kumar Mishra, Acting Secretary, Ministry of Health, Madhesh Province – Balbodh
Arbind Lal Karna, Acting Administrative Officer, Birgunj Metropolitan City – Bajrakid
Dr. Ramvinay Chaudhary, renowned physician – Khavsurta
Sita Devi Karna, painter Manpasaran
Dr. Pinky Mandal, veterinary doctor and professor – Mantoria
Krishna Chandra Chaudhary, celebrated headmaster from Mahottari – Sokhanand
Surendra Bhandari, President, Janakpur Chamber of Commerce – Khesarilal
Bimal Mishra, President, Janakpur Bar Association – Pabitra Papi
Puran Gupta, President, FNJ Dhanusha – Daporshankh
The recognition presented to Kumar Bhaskar symbolizes the festival’s long-standing tradition of using satire, humor, and creative expression to celebrate social engagement, artistic contribution, and communi-ty leadership. MINAP’s Mahamurkh Conference is widely regarded as a meaningful cultural platform that preserves Mithila’s unique tradition of wit and folk expression.
