Unified Nepal
BHAKTAPUR — Bagmati Province Chief Minister Kiran Thapa Magar has honored Virendra Kasaju Shrestha with a commendation certificate and a cash prize of NPR 200,000 in recognition of his significant contributions to preserving the historic tongue-piercing tradition. Shrestha recently underwent the ritual for the fifth time.
During a formal program organized in Thimi on Sunday, Chief Minister Thapa presented the cash award and honor certificate to Shrestha. According to the provincial government, the financial reward was conferred as an incentive to safeguard the historic tongue-piercing festival and encourage individuals dedicated to preserving this tradition.
On the occasion, Provincial Minister for Industry, Tourism, and Transportation Rajendra Prajapati honored Shrestha by draping him in a traditional shawl (dosalla). Chief Minister Thapa reiterated that the provincial government remains committed to supporting and coordinating efforts to preserve tangible and intangible cultural heritage, including historic arts, culture, festivals, and traditions.
He added that the provincial government has allocated a dedicated budget to develop Bhaktapur into a premier hub for health, education, and tourism by integrating historic heritage, traditional festivals, and cultural events with the tourism sector.
