GunanandDangwal was born in 1915, and he is a freedom fighter, too, better known by his name Pathik. He played a front lead role in the Tehri uprising.
He was talented from childhood, but his father never appreciated his interest in education. He wanted him to join him in business and manage the money. His father was a money lender. He wanted Gunanand to join Tehri Maharaj’s court along with him, but Gunanand refused to join and chose to be a freedom fighter. He managed to complete his education. He was very much dedicated to his goals and ambitions. Even his father’s money could not lure him.
He is known for translating the epic ‘Ramayana’ to Garhwali Ramayana, which was later known as ‘Garh Bhasha Lila Ramayan.’ He made it easier to be used in plays in the Garhwal region and compositions of folk and patriotic folk songs. Manglish Dabral, in his poems, has written about Gunanand Ji and his contribution to Uttarakhand society and uplifting the society.
After independence, Gunanand shifted to Dehradun, and he was not in a good financial condition. He wrote hundreds of poems in Garhwali. His Garwahli poetry collection was published and included ‘PaunPani,’ ‘UljhareParani,’ ‘BigulRaibar,’ ‘Gandhi Ji ka PyaraHarijan,’ ‘GeetangGailya’ and more.
At the age of 85, Gunanand died in the year 2000. His wife, Manorama, two sons, and two daughters are taking his legacy forward. He is not with us today, but Uttarakhand will never forget him for his great work and contribution.
He changed the scenario of Uttarakhand art and culture in the drama sector. He made the plays easy by translating the Ramayana into the Garhwali language.
He had made an enormous contribution and has done a lot for the state and country as a freedom fighter.
People like Pathik will always be remembered for his excellent work and contributions. Uttarakhand is proud to have a personality like him and always will be proud of him. Such legends never really die.