Kathmandu: President Bidya Devi Bhandari has lauded the richness of Karnali in its civilization and culture. Inaugurating the Rara National Music Award, 2079 BS here today, the President said Karnali is affluent in civilization and cultures though it lags behind in terms of physical and infrastructure development.
She expressed her happiness for awarding the literary figures of Karnali which, she said, helps in protection and promotion of arts and culture of the province. On the occasion, the President said Karnali Province could be uplifted socially and economically provided that natural means and resources were well utilized. Economic development could be ensured if concrete planning and programmes related to culture-based tourism and natural beauty were forwarded and implemented.
Likewise, she highlighted the contributions made by the entire Karnali region for Nepal’s arts and culture. Stating that the Sinja valley of the Karnali is regarded as the origin of the Nepali language, the President shared she had an opportunity to be more familiar about the specialties of Karnali region from the publications of late culture expert Satya Mohan Joshi.
During the event, artistes Shambhu Jit Baskota, Nanda Krishna Joshi, Amrit Khati, social worker Gyanendra Shrestha and others were honoured. Likewise, Alina Sapkota, Bhim Prasad Gajurel, Mechu Dhimal, Sanam Kathayat, Purna Chaulagain, Yam Prasad Neure and others were given the outstanding award.