Vibrant Showcase of Nepali Art and Culture at the Seventh Edition of Pratibha Nakshatra UK
London. The seventh edition of Pratibha Nakshatra UK was held on 16 August 2026 at the Greenwich Rugby Club grounds in Plumstead Common, south-east London.
Pratibha Nakshatra has become a well-established platform that connects Nepali children and young people born and raised in the United Kingdom with Nepal’s art, culture, language and traditions. Participating children and young people presented a range of cultural performances and showcased their talents during the event.
A total of 25 children and teenagers competed in dance, singing, public speaking and other categories. Their presentations explored subjects including Lord Gautama Buddha, Mount Everest—the world’s highest peak—and Nepal’s art, culture and national identity. Dressed in traditional Nepali attire and jewellery, they celebrated their Nepali heritage through indigenous musical instruments, songs, music and dance.
In the youth category, Trista MD was crowned the winner, while Vidhi Budhathoki was named first runner-up and Albert Gurung second runner-up. Similarly, in the children’s category, Shesh Shrestha emerged as the winner, with Sara Guragain as first runner-up and Abhinav Saud as second runner-up.
Lachhuman Gurung, one of the founding directors of Pratibha Nakshatra, delivered the welcome address. Sushil Prajapati, president of Pasa Puchah Guthi UK, spoke about the Kumari tradition and its cultural significance. The gathering also observed a minute’s silence in memory of world-renowned mountaineer Nirmal Purja.
Conceived by Nepali culture enthusiast Rajendra Khas, Pratibha Nakshatra was launched in 2017 to provide Nepali children and teenagers in the diaspora with a platform to showcase their talents and strengthen their connection with Nepal. The initiative seeks to promote Nepali art, culture, language, literature and traditions while passing Nepali identity on to younger generations.
This year, a special “Pratibha Nakshatra Village” was created at the venue, featuring model Newar, Tharu and Khas houses. Various stalls displayed Nepali handicrafts, jewellery, cuisine and traditional clothing, while charitable organisations also presented their work. Performances featuring Naumati and Dhime music, along with a ramp walk, question-and-answer sessions, dance and singing, were among the event’s additional attractions.
The event attracted a significant number of attendees from the Nepali, British and other communities. Competitors and participants travelled not only from across the United Kingdom but also from Ireland, Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands. Acting Chairperson of Pratibha Nakshatra, Vijaya Dahal, expressed her gratitude to everyone who contributed to the successful organisation of the event.
