KATHMANDU: Nepali actress Niti Shah has been honored with the Best Debut Actress award at the prestigious 8848 Himalaya Music and Film Awards, held in New York, USA. The award ceremony took place at the Melrose Ballroom on Monday morning (Nepali time).

Niti received the award for her impressive performance in the Dashain-release film Jwai Saab. The award was presented to her by veteran actress Pooja Chand. Niti expressed her gratitude, saying, “This award has motivated me to remain dedicated and energetic in my acting journey.”

The ceremony featured participation from several artists based in the United States, with legendary actor Rajesh Hamal and renowned musician Shambhujeet Baskota serving as the chief guests.

Actor Bijay Baral won Best Actor for his role in Purnabahadurko Sarangi, while Kedar Ghimire (popularly known as Magne Budha) bagged the Best Comedy Role award for Chhakka Panja 5. The film Shambala was declared Best Film of the year. Swastima Khadka took home the Best Actress award for Behuli from Meghauli, while Samir Bhatt was recognized as Best Debut Actor for his performance in 12 Gaun. Shankar Ghimire won Best Director for TelVisa, and Richa Ghimire was named Best Supporting Actress.

In the music category, Kuma Sagar won Best Band, Sushant K.C. won Best Male Singer for his song Bardali, and Trishna Gurung won Best Female Singer for Naam Ke Ho Bhan.

The event was presented by First Top Shop and organized by Rajesh Hamal, Nischal Waiba, Pashupati Shrestha, Lokesh Shrestha, Itna Karki, and Rebel Events.