Minister for Communications and Information Technology Jagadish Kharel paid a visit to the Jyapu Museum in Patan, Lalitpur, on Wednesday evening, highlighting the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting indigenous art, culture, and heritage.
During the visit, Minister Kharel closely observed the museum’s exhibits and facilities and held discussions with officials of the Jyapu community regarding the preservation and promotion of their traditional civilization. The museum, which showcases the rich cultural legacy of the Jyapu community, is recognized as a vital center for safeguarding indigenous identity and promoting cultural tourism.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister Kharel praised the originality and aesthetic value of the museum, emphasizing its importance in promoting Nepal’s diverse heritage. “This museum, brimming with originality and beauty, holds great significance. We must nurture the deep connection that the Jyapu community has with the land. Their distinctive art, culture, and civilization should be preserved and shared with the world as a symbol of our warmth, harmony, and mutual respect,” he stated.
Minister Kharel further noted that museums like Jyapu Museum play a crucial role in educating younger generations about indigenous traditions while also attracting both domestic and international tourists interested in Nepal’s cultural heritage.
Warm Reception by Jyapu Community
The Minister was warmly welcomed by the society’s president, Santman Maharjan, along with other officials of the Jyapu community. They expressed gratitude for the Minister’s visit and his positive remarks regarding the community’s cultural contributions.
Community leaders shared insights about ongoing efforts to document and preserve the traditional practices, artifacts, and folklore of the Jyapu people. They also highlighted the need for further institutional support to strengthen the museum’s role as a cultural and educational hub.
Promoting Cultural Tourism
Officials believe that the Jyapu Museum can play a key role in expanding cultural tourism in the Kathmandu Valley. By showcasing indigenous heritage in an authentic setting, the museum offers visitors a deeper understanding of the social, artistic, and agricultural traditions that have shaped the valley’s civilization for centuries.
The visit by Minister Kharel is expected to encourage broader recognition of indigenous museums and cultural institutions as valuable national assets, reinforcing the importance of preserving Nepal’s diverse cultural identity for future generations.
