President presents Natikaji Samman

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Feb. 13: President Ramchandra Paudel has said that art, literature and music are the uniting elements that weave Nepalis together.  Speaking at the Natikaji Rastriya Bishishta Sangeet Samman and Puraskar- 2080 distribution ceremony held at the President’s Office in Shital Niwas on Wednesday, the President said that art, literature, and music contribute to the development of unity, tolerance and prosperity in society.

 “Nepal is rich in ethnic, linguistic, cultural, and geographical diversity, literature, art, songs, and music foster love, friendship, and brotherhood, thereby strengthening unity,” said the President. 

President Paudel acknowledged Natikaji’s exemplary contribution to the creation of modern music while preserving Nepali folk melodies. 

On the occasion, President Paudel distributed the Natikaji Rastriya Bishishta Sangeet Samman, Natikaji Rastriya Sangeet Puraskar, Natikaji Rastriya Pratibha Puraskar, Natikaji Rastriya Shastriya Puraskar, Natikaji Rastriya Lok Sangeet Puraskar, Natikaji Rastriya Kala Patrakarita Puraskar and Natikaji Rastriya Yogadan Samman. 

Likewise, Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Badri Pandey said that Natikaji’s lyrics, music and voice together form an eternal trinity.  

The minister highlighted that Natikaji’s songs are deeply infused with patriotism and love for the country.  He also emphasised that music should continue to inspire Nepalis to stay and contribute to their homeland.

Minister Pandey said that music, art and culture play a crucial role in fostering emotional and intangible values.

 He further added that Nepal’s diversity is limited not only to language, literature, art, and culture but also extends to geography, and these elements serve as a foundation for the country’s physical development and prosperity.

Meanwhile, Gorkhapatra Daily’s art journalist Sukreet Nepal was honoured with Natikaji Rastriya Kala Patrakarita Puraskar carrying a purse of Rs. 11,111. Likewise, journalist Sushil Aryal was also honoured with the same award. 

 A total of 31 personalities have received honours and awards during the programme.  During the programme, Natikaji Rastriya Bishishta Sangeet Samman was presented to Dhana Lama, Bom Bahadur Karki, Prakash Sayami, Gyanu Radha Gorkhali, Buddha Bir Lama, Diwakar Khadka, lyricist Kiran KC and singer Yashodha Parajuli. 

Likewise, singers Himal Sagar, Bindhu Pariyar, lyricist B Pandey, Musician Ashish Aviral and composer Samrat Thapa received the Natikaji Rastriya Sangeet Puraskar. 

Natikaji Rastriya Pratibha Puraskar was presented to Bhola Poudel, David Shankar, Smita Dahal, Kalyan Singh. Likewise, Natikaji Rastriya Shastriya Sangeet Puraskar was presented to Dr. Ramesh Pokharel.

Folk singers Ram Prasad Awasthi, Sushma Shahi Thakuri and Krishna BK received the Natikaji Rastriya Lok Sangeet Puraskar. 

Likewise, Bhimal Bhaukaji, Arjun KC, Amir Sunar, Santa Bahadur Giri, Mira Rana, Subas Chandra Dhungel, Bikas Nath Yogi and Dharma Munikar were honoured with Natikaji Rastriya Yogdan Samman.