Mahendra Secondary School Promotes Cultural Identity

Mahendra Secondary School, located in Manebhanjyang, Khandbari Municipality–3, Sankhuwasabha, has started a special initiative to preserve its unique culture and ethnic identity.

As ethnic identity and cultural traditions began to fade, the school introduced a practice encouraging both teachers and students to attend school in their traditional attire on the last Friday of every month.

According to Krishna Bahadur Chapagain, Coordinator of the School’s Literary and Cultural Department, the increasing influence of foreign dress and lifestyle has weakened local traditions. This initiative was launched to address that concern. Through this practice, students not only learn about their own culture but also gain exposure to the customs, traditions, and dress of other ethnic communities.

Principal Medini Ghimire stated that the active participation of all teachers and students creates a joyful atmosphere within the school. He added that the diversity of ethnic attire makes the school look like a colorful garden. According to him, such practices also nurture in students a sense of cultural understanding and respect.

Out of more than one thousand students enrolled in the school, around 80 percent participate by wearing their ethnic dress. On the same day, cultural programs such as dances and songs from Newar, Tamang, and Rai communities are also presented, making the school environment even more lively.