Cultural scholar Jagman Gurung has emphasized the need for all three levels of government to focus on the preservation and research of the Hadigaun area, a historically significant region of Nepal. Speaking at the inauguration of the Kailashkut Social Campaign’s general assembly in Hadigaun, Ward 5, Kathmandu, Gurung highlighted the historical importance of the area.
Gurung noted that among the three major palaces of the Lichhavi era – Mangriha, Bhrikuti Palace, and Kailashkut – Kailashkut, located in Hadigaun, holds even greater significance. He shared that the historic Kailashkut Palace, which had three sections and seven stories, could accommodate 10,000 people in a single assembly hall, and it was from this palace that King Anshu Verma ruled.
He further stressed the need to collect ancient records from Hadigaun, Maligaun, and Dhumrabaraha to establish a museum in the region.
Historian Dr. Prayagraj Sharma also emphasized the historical significance of Hadigaun, describing it as one of Nepal’s oldest and most historic sites, based on its rich history, heritage, and festivals. Sharma pointed out that the fame of Kailashkut Palace and the ancient statues and inscriptions found in the area further validate Hadigaun’s importance.
Ward Chairperson of Kathmandu Metropolitan City-5, Birendra Prajapati, shared that the municipality has already launched initiatives to revitalize Hadigaun. He explained that a street festival has been held in the area for the past year to raise awareness about its heritage, traditions, and identity. The metropolitan city is also working on a detailed project report (DPR) to reclaim public land for the benefit of the local residents and develop the Lichhavi-era heritage in the area.
Veteran journalist Mohan Mainali and Mahesh Kumar Shrestha, President of the Kailashkut Social Campaign, reiterated the campaign’s mission of “Love Everyone, Serve Everyone,” under which they are conducting various programs to support the community.
On the occasion, Ramdas Maharjan, who has been actively working to preserve traditional musical instruments since 1953, was honored with a cash prize for his contributions to heritage conservation.
