Ashtimki Painting Workshop Highlights Tharu Cultural Heritage
The Department of Architecture and Folk Art, Nepal Academy of Fine Arts, in collaboration with Agrasan Tharu Women’s Society, successfully conducted the Ashtimki Painting Workshop.
Cultural Significance and Perspectives
Chancellor Narad Mani Hartamchhali of the Nepal Academy of Fine Arts stated that indigenous consciousness often emerges from the daily life of local communities. He remarked, “Within folk art, we find perspectives, ways of life, ethnic identity, and national identity. This reflects Nepal’s identity. If such folk art programs are promoted properly, they can lead toward prosperity.”
Member Secretary Devendra Kumar Kafle ‘Thumkeli’ commented on a working paper titled Ashtimki Painting and Tharu Indigenous Knowledge. He highlighted how Nepal’s diverse cultures, folk art, and knowledge have developed in connection with everyday life and traditions. He emphasized that all sectors should work to commercialize and promote these art forms internationally to link them with the economy. He also noted the unique value and significance of Tharu folk art, deeply connected with human life and natural beauty.
Role in Preserving National Identity
Pradeep Adhikari, Head of the Department of Architecture and Folk Art, stated that Tharu folk art plays a major role in keeping the Nepali identity alive. He stressed the importance of safeguarding the originality of Ashtimki folk art amid changing times.
Community Participation
Chaudhary, President of the Agrasan Tharu Women’s Society, Kathmandu, shared the cultural significance of the Ashtimki festival celebrated by Tharu women. She expressed her happiness in collaborating with the academy to organize the workshop for preservation and intergenerational transfer of this tradition.
Shatrughan Chaudhary presented a working paper on Ashtimki Painting and Tharu Indigenous Knowledge, discussing the importance of Ashtimki folk art, its relationship with nature and human life, and aspects of Tharu indigenous knowledge.
Exhibition