The prestigious ‘Imperial Photojournalist Appreciation Award 2026’ ceremony was held on Friday at Imperial Hotel International in the capital, recognising outstanding contributions to photojournalism.

The event was organised by the Photojournalist Appreciation Award 2026 Celebration Council.

State minister for social welfare Farzana Sharmin attended the event as the chief guest. Special guests included Ambassador of Nepal to Dhaka Ghanshyam Bhandari and managing editor of The New Nation Arshad Hosein.

A total of 27 photojournalists received awards at the event, while 10 recipients from Nepal were also honoured.

Veteran Reuters photojournalist Rafiqur Rahman was given special recognition for his 57-year contribution to photojournalism.

Among others present were former World Press jury member and Alliance Francaise teacher Abir Abdullah, president of the Bangladesh Photojournalists Association AKM Mohsin, and a 10-member delegation led by Pradeep Raj Onta, president of the National Forum of Photojournalists Nepal.

In her remarks, Farzana Sharmin thanked the organising committee chairman Moshiur Rahman and said such an initiative was unprecedented in Bangladesh. She encouraged organising international-level competitions in the future and assured full support.

Arshad Hosein said photojournalism is not just a profession but a responsibility, capturing moments of joy and sorrow and highlighting disasters and difficult situations through powerful imagery.

The event concluded with a cultural programme and dinner, celebrating and encouraging the work of photojournalists.