Born as Bhakta Raj Shrestha in Baghbazar, Pokhara
Saru Bhakta
सरुभक्त
Also known as Bhakta Raj Shrestha
Playwright, novelist, and poet known for the classic novel Pagal Basti
About
Saru Bhakta, the pen name of Bhakta Raj Shrestha, began writing around 1978, after completing his education across Pokhara and Kathmandu. He went on to build a long and active career, spanning drama, fiction, songwriting, and poetry.
His novel Pagal Basti is widely regarded as a classic of Nepalese literature. It won him the Madan Puraskar. He later served on the Royal Nepal Academy. He also served as chancellor of the Nepal Music and Drama Academy.
Quick facts
- Born
- 1955-11-27
- Birthplace
- Baghbazar, Pokhara, Gandaki Province, Nepal
- Profession
- Playwright, Novelist, Songwriter, Poet
- Nationality
- Nepal
- Status
- Alive
Previous roles
Member
Royal Nepal Academy
Chancellor
Nepal Music and Drama Academy
Education
Amrit Science College
IA
Prithvi Narayan Campus
Bachelor's
Tribhuvan University
Master's
Career & life timeline
- 1955-11-27
- 1978
Started writing
- 1991
Won the Madan Puraskar for his novel Pagal Basti
Achievements
Novel Pagal Basti widely considered a classic of Nepalese literature
Awards & honours
Madan Puraskar
Uttam Shanti Puraskar
International Disabled Year Best Play Award
Organizations & affiliations
- Royal Nepal Academy
- Nepal Music and Drama Academy
Last updated: 2026-09-06