Man Raj Bhandari ‘Sailesh’ is the former Deputy Mayor of Nilkantha Municipality, Dhading, known for his dedicated public service and significant contributions to the community’s development. His tenure from 2074 to 2079 BS was marked by transformative initiatives in infrastructure, agriculture, tourism, and water management, greatly impacting the municipality’s growth and sustainability.
Early Life and Education:
Man Raj Bhandari was born on 2036-03-10 BS in Bhandari Gaun, Nilkantha Municipality, Dhading. He was raised in a politically active family with a strong commitment to community service. His father, the late Jhalak Bahadur Bhandari, and his mother, the late Bhakta Kumari Bhandari, both played influential roles in his upbringing.
Growing up in a large family with five sisters and three brothers, Man Raj experienced a childhood filled with challenges and responsibilities. One memorable event from his childhood was when a friend mistakenly put tobacco in his eyes, causing him great pain but also teaching him resilience.
Man Raj began his education at Sri Mahendra Ma Vi in Nilkantha-2, Dhading, where he studied up to grade 8. He completed grades 9 and 10 at Sri Nilkantha Ma Vi in Nilkantha-3, Dhadingbesi. His schooling was intertwined with household responsibilities, limiting the time he could dedicate to his studies.
Political Career:
Inspired by his family’s political legacy, Man Raj entered the political arena at an early age. His family’s history included his uncle serving twice as the District Panchayat Chairman and his grandfather’s involvement in the Communist Party, fighting against the Panchayati system and enduring imprisonment for his beliefs.
Man Raj’s political journey began in 2050 BS as a member of the Akhil (Revolutionary) Unit Committee at Nilkantha Ma Vi. By 2051 BS, he became a member of the Young Communist League (YCL), and in 2054 BS, he was a candidate for the Free Student Union (FSU) at his college in Kathmandu. Despite narrowly losing, his commitment to public service continued.
In 2058 BS, Man Raj became an underground member of the Maoist party, assuming various leadership roles, including area secretary and district member. By 2062 BS, he was the secretary of the Basu Smriti Brigade, a unit of the People’s Liberation Army. Following the peace agreement, he continued his political journey, becoming the district coordinator of YCL in Dhading and later the district president of YCL.
Man Raj was elected as the Deputy Mayor of Nilkantha Municipality in the first local election in 2074 BS. His leadership focused on infrastructure development, agriculture, tourism, and water management, significantly improving the municipality’s living standards.
Key Initiatives and Projects:
- Nilkantha Corridor Development: Construction of corridors along Arun and Thopal rivers, enhancing transportation and connectivity.
- Thopal River Reservoir Hydropower Project: Feasibility studies for sustainable energy production.
- Agriculture and Tourism Promotion: Initiatives to boost local agriculture and tourism, providing economic opportunities.
- Water Supply Projects: Prioritizing access to clean drinking water for all residents.
Post-Tenure Contributions:
After his tenure as Deputy Mayor, Man Raj Bhandari continues to serve his community as the chairman of Sahid Smriti Communication Cooperative in Nilkantha-3, Dhading. He remains active in politics as the district coordinator of the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre) in Dhading, contributing to social and political advancements.
Personal Life:
Man Raj Bhandari lives in Bhandari Gaun, Nilkantha Municipality, Dhading. He is married and has two children. His contact information is 9851164911, and his email is manraj.bhandari2074@gmail.com.
Message to the Youth:
Man Raj Bhandari urges the younger generation to engage actively in politics and community service. He emphasizes the importance of staying in Nepal to find opportunities and contribute to the country’s development. His advice to the youth is to cultivate a positive mindset, invest in education, and strive for personal growth.
Conclusion:
Man Raj Bhandari ‘Sailesh’ exemplifies dedicated leadership and community service. His legacy of development and social progress continues to inspire future generations, making a lasting impact on Nilkantha Municipality and beyond.