This year’s Parakram Balpratibha Award has been presented to Prapti Subedi from Dhading, who is currently studying in Grade Seven at the Kirtipur-based Laboratory School. Prapti was selected for the award in recognition of her exceptional talent in academics, literature, and music, despite facing physical challenges, according to Bhawani Khatiwada, writer and secretary of the organizing body, Parvatiya Sahitya Samaj Nepal.
The award was jointly presented by travel writer Prateek Dhakal and the Principal of Laboratory School, Dr. Lakpa Sherpa.
Established in 2075 BS in memory of their late son Parakram Paudyal by the literary couple Mahesh Paudyal and Rama Adhikari, the award is presented annually to students who demonstrate exceptional talent in fields such as art, literature, and music. It includes a cash prize of NPR 15,000 and a certificate.
The award ceremony was attended by several notable figures including Parakram’s grandmother and literary critic Pushpa Kumari Paudyal; travel writer and Parvatiya Sahitya Samaj secretary Bhawani Khatiwada; writer and critic Dr. Ashok Thapa; poet and critic Mahesh Karki Kshitiz; writer and journalist Laxman Biyogi; music composer Ramesh Subedi; Himalayan researchers Shiva Gaire and Yubaraj Gaire; as well as teachers and students of the school.
Expressing her gratitude during the event, awardee Prapti Subedi shared that the recognition had further inspired her to dedicate herself more deeply to literature and music. Principal Dr. Sherpa expressed pride in Prapti’s accomplishment, noting that a student from his school being recognized at the national level was a great honor. Chief guest Prateek Dhakal praised the country’s young talents and extended his best wishes for their future success.
In previous years, the award has honored differently-abled poet Darshan KC; Tara Tamang, known for his oratorical talent despite economic hardship; and Prem Chepang, a singer from a marginalized community. Likewise, visually impaired students Alisha Phuyal and Yogesh Rai from Adarsha Secondary School, Madhyapur Thimi, have also been awarded for their excellence in music and academics.
