Kathmandu:

There is no question about women coming up to the forefront and walking shoulder to shoulder with men in every field today. They have time and again proved that there is nothing in this world that they cannot take up and do it with utmost excellence and perfection. To celebrate this very essence of womanhood on the occasion of the 56th birthday of Queen Komal, ‘Celebrating Womanhood — Navadevi Awards’ was held on February 24 at the Royal Nepal Academy. Crown Princess Himani graced the occasion, which was brought together by Dr Durga Pokharel, minister, Ministry of Women, Children and Social Welfare, in coordination with Creative Statements, Yogini Sanskritik Kendra and Siam Beauty Institute.

The programme was inaugurated by lighting of lamp by the crown princess followed by a welcome speech by Dr Durga Pokharel. Shrijana Singh Yonjan of Creative Statements spoke about the role of women in the present day context and the milestones they have achieved.

The Navadevi Awards were presented to nine women belonging to different professions and backgrounds and were meant not only to give them recognition for their hard work, determination and success but also to pay tribute to them for becoming what they have regardless of gender and other factors. This is the fifth time in a row that these awards have been given.

The awards based on nine goddesses represent strength, power, compassion, determination, love and knowledge. Goddess Shakti was awarded to Indira Rana Magar, Karuna to Tulsilata Amatya, Mahamaya to Kamala Shrestha, Bhagwati to Dr Usha Thakur, Bhawani to Ambika Gajner, Durga to Urmila Shrestha, Annapurna to Sangeeta Thapa, Laxmi to Lotika Chaddha and Saraswati to Stella Tamang.

A cultural programme put together by women was presented. From traditional dances, poetry recitation, inspirational songs to traditional instrumental compositions, the programme was a perfect amalgamation of culture and tradition. Renowned artistes and students of the Yogini Sanskritik Kendra brought these presentations together giving the audience power packed performances making the show a worthwhile watch.