Date: July 27, 2026

The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) is shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic news of the passing of Press Freedom Fighter Arjun Gyawali at the age of 81.

According to the FNJ Rupandehi Branch, Mr. Gyawali, who had been undergoing treatment at B&B Hospital in Lalitpur for heart and lung disease for some time, passed away at 8:40 p.m. on Sunday, July 26, 2026.

Mr. Gyawali began his journalism career in 1967. Throughout his distinguished career, he made significant contributions to the Rastriya Samachar Samiti (RSS), Lumbini Sandesh Weekly, and several other newspapers and publications. He also regularly wrote articles and opinion pieces for various daily newspapers published in Butwal.

Mr. Gyawali made notable contributions while serving on the FNJ Rupandehi District Branch and various committees of the Federation. In 2001, the Federation honored him with the Press Freedom Fighter Award in recognition of his contribution to press freedom and journalism.

He was also the recipient of numerous honors and awards, including the FNJ Rupandehi Branch Excellence in Journalism Award, the Government of Nepal Senior Journalist Honor, the Gopal Gotame Gold Medal, and the Social Service Medal conferred by the Lumbini Provincial Government, among many others. He is survived by his wife, one daughter, and two sons.

With his passing, Nepali journalism has lost an experienced, fearless, and professional journalist, while the FNJ Rupandehi Branch has lost a respected mentor and guiding figure.

The Federation of Nepali Journalists pays heartfelt tribute to the late senior journalist Arjun Gyawali, prays for the eternal peace of his departed soul, and extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved family. The Federation also wishes the bereaved family strength and fortitude to endure this profound loss.

Ram Prasad Dahal

General Secretary