On Friday evening, February 25, the fifth edition of the PhotoKTM opened with an immersive audio-visual performance staged by Irina Giri at Bhandarkhal, Patan Durbar Square. Before the event, there was a press conference where the press and media asked the organizer and participants questions about the event and the 35-day exhibitions. This year, the festival is bringing together over 60 participants from 16 countries together to explore pertinent questions in regard to the natural world around us.

The event began with a speech from representatives of the associate partner, Sikshya Foundation Nepal. Mr. Shyam Chitrakar, the pioneer of sports photojournalism, was awarded the Award of Excellence for his contributions to this sector for over six decades. He was nominated by three jury members: Shruti Shrestha (president of Photojournalist Club Nepal), Devendra Man Singh (a notable Nepali photographer who had formerly worked for Agence France-Presse), and Bikas Rauniar (a former chairman of the National Forum of Photojournalists).

The Award of Excellence was handed out by the Mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City, Mr. Chiri Babu Maharjan. And the event offered a glimpse into the works of this year’s exhibiting artists, along with musical performances by artists Pushpa Palanchoke, Ser o Duo, and the Kathmandu Jazz Conservatory Choir, accompanied by visual projections by Phatecowlee.

South Asian Games gold medalist Ayesha Shakya said, “Shyam Chitrakar is the father figure to Nepali sports journalism. This recognition of his outstanding career will be a source of inspiration for the younger generation.”

Written By: Utsav Pun

Photos BY: Nikesh Magar

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