Nine actresses honoured with Rastriya Navadurga Samman

By TRN Online, Kathmandu, Sept. 26: Nine actresses have been felicitated with the 'National Navadurga Samman' for the year 2079. 

Vice President Nanda Bahadur Pun honored them with the award at a programme jointly organized by Rejina Entertainment and Sahid Films at the Film Development Board Hall in Kathmandu today.

Actresses Bharti Ghimire, Jharana Thapa, Shweta Khadka, Richa Sharma, Menuka Pradhan, Priyanka Karki, Pooja Sharma, Shilpa Pokharel and Suhana Thapa were honored for their contribution to the film industry.

On the occasion, Vice President Pun congratulated all the award recipients and expressed the belief that the honor would further help them to advance their artistry. 

Chairperson of Sahid Films actress Bimala KC highlighted the need on the part of the government to consider artists as the asset and heritage of the country and treat the with due respect.

She urged that government to ensure that artists including those in the film industry can find their livelihood in the sector itself.

"There is a mindset that takes artists as ornaments, decorative items, something that is to be used only. That is wrong perception. Artists are asset and they should be treat in the same light and the government has the responsibility to do so," said actress KC welcoming the guests.

President of Rejina Entertainment actress Rejina Upreti expressed her happiness to honor the women representing Nepali films.  

Speaking at the function, actress Richa Sharma said the recognition from the senior to the junior artists has led to a feeling of an added responsibility. "Uncompetitive honors like this give a special energy,” she said. 

The felicitation was third of its kind. In the previous two editions, eighteen actresses, nine in each annual programme, were honoured.