In a prestigious ceremony held at the Shital Niwas, the Honorable President Ram Chandra Paudel presented the "National Academy Award 2081" to eight veteran creators for their lifelong dedication to the arts.

The highest honor, the Nepal Music and Drama Lifetime Achievement Award, was conferred upon senior singer and composer Deep Shrestha. Other awardees included specialists from classical music, folk dance, and contemporary theatre. President Paudel emphasized that these artists are the "living heritage" of Nepal and play a crucial role in maintaining the nation's cultural sovereignty.