– Dr. Top Lal Panthi

Yesterday, I visited the Bhat-Bhateni Department Store at Tripureshwor, though my mind was unsettled by the difficult situation Nepal is facing these days. My visit reminded me of the remarkable journey of Mr. Min Bahadur Gurung, the visionary co-founder of Bhat-Bhateni Supermarket.

From its humble beginning in 1984 as a small grocery shop, he has transformed it into Nepal’s largest and most influential retail chain. More than a business, Bhat-Bhateni has become a social institution, admired for its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) contributions—supporting hospitals, education, sports, disaster relief, health, hygiene, and cultural as well as religious activities.

Sadly, the incident of 9th September, 2025, when several Bhat-Bhateni stores were burned during protests, has shaken many of us who value its contribution to society. In this context, I feel it is important to extend words of sympathy and solidarity.

Ashwin 10, 2082
Kathmandu, Nepal

Mr. Min Bahadur Gurung
Chairman
Bhat-Bhateni Supermarket

Dear Mr. Gurung,

I am deeply saddened to learn about the unfortunate incident of Bhadra 24, 2082, when several department stores of Bhat-Bhateni Supermarket were burned and damaged during the protest campaign conducted by the Gen Z group of Nepal. It is truly disheartening that such destructive acts were carried out by unknown individuals, causing immense financial loss to your business and hardship to many.

As a scholar of Corporate Social Responsibility, I have closely observed your remarkable contributions over the years. Your leadership has gone far beyond providing quality products and creating thousands of jobs. Your support in building hospital facilities at TU Teaching Hospital, promoting education, supporting sports, aiding disaster relief, uplifting cultural and religious values, and advancing health and hygiene are just a few of the many contributions you have made to Nepalese society.

Despite the severe challenges of this difficult moment, I am inspired by your noble decision not to downsize employees and giving salary including Dashain bonus. This act reflects your compassion, responsible leadership, and unwavering dedication to your workforce and their families.

Please accept my heartfelt sympathy in this challenging time. I firmly believe that with your resilience and vision, Bhat-Bhateni Supermarket will emerge stronger, continuing to serve the people of Nepal and contribute to national progress.

With deepest respect and sympathy,

Sincerely,
Dr. Top Lal Panthi (PhD)
Scholar of Corporate Social Responsibility