Bangladeshi filmmaker, writer and human rights activist Shahadat Russell has received an international honour in Nepal for his contribution to literature and human rights.
The award was presented at the International Excellence Award 2026, held on 5 September at the National Dance Hall in Kathmandu. The event was organised under the theme “Celebrating outstanding contributions to success, leadership and human rights.”
Russell was honoured for his latest short-story collection, The Half Finished Cigarette and Unspoken Apologies, which was published through Amazon.
Speaking about the recognition, Russell said the award was both a source of joy and encouragement. He described the book as a collection of 12 stories centred on human rights and humanitarian values, adding that he was pleased that the organisers had recognised its central message.
Russell also said he dedicated the honour, from the stage itself, to the police personnel who were killed in Bangladesh during July and August.
The International Excellence Award is a joint initiative of India and Nepal, and this year marked its fourth edition.
Former Nepali deputy prime minister Upendra Yadav presented the awards as the chief guest. Nepali lawmakers Jagat Joshi and Khemraj Koirala attended as special guests, while Indian filmmaker Amal Bhagat and other prominent figures from different fields were also present.
The ceremony concluded with performances of traditional Nepali folk music and dance.
