New York: The 8848 Himalaya Music and Film Awards USA 2025 was successfully held on the 4th of April, Sunday, at the prestigious Melrose Ballroom in New York, honoring exceptional contributions by Nepali artists in the fields of music and cinema. The grand event witnessed the presence of celebrated personalities from the Nepali entertainment industry both domestically and internationally, including legendary actor Rajesh Hamal and veteran singer Shambhujit Baskota.

The evening was marked by the announcement of major award winners. Niti Shah bagged the Best Debut Actress award for her performance in Jwai Saab, with the award presented by actress Pooja Chand. Shankar Ghimire was honored as Best Director for his film Tel Visa, while Swastima Khadka won Best Actress for Behuli From Meghauli. Bijay Baral received the Best Actor award for his role in Purna Bahadur ko Sarangi.

Other notable winners included Samir Bhatta, awarded Best Debut Actor for 12 Gaun, and comedy legend Kedar Ghimire (Magne Budha), who won the Best Comedy Performance for Chhakkapanja 5. Richa Ghimire took home the Best Supporting Actress award. The film Shambala was declared the best film of the year.

Organized by Shatisal USA International LLC, Buddha Tax & Accounting, and Revel Events Inc., the event aimed to promote Nepali music and cinema on a global stage while providing a platform to uplift and recognize emerging talents. The awards show also served as a bridge connecting Nepali creatives worldwide, fostering cultural pride and international recognition of Nepal’s artistic excellence.