Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Hit Bahadur Tamang, underscored the integral role of music in life during a celebration organized by the Nepal Music Association on the occasion of World Music Day 2081. The event took place today at Sky Tower, Kamaladi, and honored distinguished artists and featured musical performances.
Addressing the ceremony, Minister Tamang stated that life would be incomplete without art and music. He remarked, “World Music Day is a very important day for artists. Although I am not an artist, I do listen to music. It is said that even animals are influenced by music; this is a significant field.”
He expressed his happiness at being the chief guest and having the opportunity to honor individuals who have dedicated their lives to music. “I am delighted to honor artists who have devoted their lives to the important field of music. May your journey always progress,” he added.
During the event, several prominent figures in Nepal’s music industry were recognized with national musical honors and awards:
- Fattiman Rajbhandari National Music Award: Veteran singer Rajesh Payal Rai
- Shiva Shankar Manandhar National Music Award: Senior artist and composer CK Rasaili
- Prem Dhoj Pradhan National Music Award: Renowned singer Meera Rana
- Pushpa Nepali National Music Award: Esteemed singer Om Bikram Bista
- Ratna Shamsher Thapa National Music Award: Renowned lyricist Kali Prasad Rijal
- Shubha Bahadur Sunam National Music Award: Veteran instrumentalist Dev Rana
- Rajesh-Lakshmi Dance Guru Special Honor: Folk dance maestro Bhairab Bahadur Thapa
- Lal Samundra Memorial National Multi-Talent Music Award: Senior singer and pilot Vijaya Lama
- Nepal Music Association National Music Award: Senior instrumentalist and music arranger Surendra Shrestha
- Music Association National Journalism Award: Senior journalist Chandramani Gautam
This celebration not only highlighted the significance of music in cultural preservation but also tied it to the promotion of tourism in Nepal. Minister Tamang highlighted that supporting the arts and music is essential for enhancing the country’s cultural tourism. He announced upcoming government plans to further support the music industry and cultural programs, aiming to attract more tourists and provide platforms for local artists to showcase their talents internationally.
The event witnessed performances by various artists, showcasing Nepal’s rich musical heritage and drawing together musicians, cultural enthusiasts, and government officials in a celebration of the universal language of music.
