KATHMANDU: Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Rekha Sharma, led a ceremony to honor female film artists for their significant contributions to the Nepali film sector.

The event, organized by the Film Development Board on Wednesday to commemorate International Women’s Day, saw actresses Keki Adhikari, Priyanka Karki, and Sarita Lamichhane, director Renasha Wantawa Rai, technician Ritu Rana, and fight director Kiran Dahal being recognized.

Each recipient was awarded a cash prize of Rs 25,000 along with a certificate of appreciation. Minister Sharma also urged the board to systematically forward their recommendations to the ministry for the formulation of the Film Act.

“The Film Act will play a crucial role in ensuring the strong representation of women in bodies like the Film Development Board and Film Screening Committee, thus preparing them for leadership roles,” stated Minister Sharma.

She further suggested that alongside felicitation programs, the Board should continue to organize various other creative activities to encourage women filmmakers. Bhuwan KC, Chairperson of the Film Development Board, highlighted the importance of the felicitation program in providing support and encouragement to female artists in the film sector.

“We designed this program to inspire and support female artists as they embark on their journey in the film industry,” said KC, expressing optimism for their plans under Minister Sharma’s leadership.

The ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Secretary at the Ministry of Communications, Ram Krishna Subedi, Chairman of the Central Film Screening Committee, Netra Prasad Subedi, and several members of the Film Development Board and Central Film Screening Committee, among others.