A voice of reason goes silent

Daman Nath Dhungana was a national figure who stood for Nepal’s marginalised and externalised sections.

In a country obsessed with status, it was natural that Daman Nath Dhungana , who died aged 83, was referred to as the former Speaker of the Pratinidhi Sabha . That was indeed the highest office he held in a varied and fulfilling life. But Daman dai , as he was known to his legions of admirers of all ages, probably didn’t need a reference to his past rank. He gave dignity to whatever post he occupied rather than acquire respectability from his formal position.