All must unite to preserve culture: VP Yadav

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, June 28: Vice President Ramsahay Prasad Yadav has called on all communities and ethnicities of the country to unite for the preservation, promotion and development of their cultures and traditions. He also urged stakeholders to research, document and protect endangered customs that are at risk of disappearing.

Speaking at a ceremony organised to present the Nepal Music and Drama Awards 2079 at his office in Lainchaur, Kathmandu on Tuesday, Vice President Yadav said that the Constitution of Nepal had enshrined republicanism, federalism, equality, inclusiveness, secularism and rule of law. Additionally, he stated, "Our constitutional system protects all ethnicities, languages, cultures and traditions and unites people from all regions, religions and communities. Unity in diversity is our national identity and if we all accept and follow this principle, the integrity and sovereignty of the nation will be strengthened and the country will become prosperous."

At the programme, Nepal Academy of Music and Drama handed over awards to senior artistes in various fields. Musician Bijay Kumar Shrestha was awarded in the traditional and classical music category and singer, musician and lyricist Ganesh Rasik was awarded in the music category.

Play critic and researcher Professor Dr. Ram Chandra Pokharel was honoured for his work in the field of drama, choreographer Kulman Nepali for dance, folk singer Navin Kishor Rai for his contributions to folk music and theatre artiste Bhairav Chhetri for his work in theatre.