Kathmandu: In a landmark move to redefine Nepal’s cultural identity, a definitive new book titled Dalits’ (Shilpees’) Glorious Arts and Artifacts Under Socio-cultural Shackles was officially launched today at the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) Hall.
Authored by distinguished scholar Dr. Govinda Sarki Nepali and social activist Indira Ghale, and edited by Fraid Kalantari, the volume represents a 35-year odyssey of research, documentation, and the preservation of indigenous technologies that have long remained invisible to the modern state. Speaking at the launch event, lead author Dr. Govinda Sarki Nepali delivered a poignant address, framing the Dalit community not as victims of history, but as the unsung inventors of Nepal’s civilization. “We are the inventors of indigenous and native knowledge,” Dr. Nepali stated. “The contributions of the Dalit community cannot be forgotten in history, nor can they be ignored in the present. The irony in Nepal’s social structure is that while rituals and traditions heavily rely on our contributions, there exists no system to evaluate the value of our work in cultural heritage.”He added that this book is a milestone in the pursuit of justice; it will assert our identity and compel the state to recognize that our skill is for society, and our art is for the future generations of the nation.
Co-author Indira Ghale, a veteran activist with over two decades of experience in social justice, emphasized that the book is a tool for systemic change. She noted that the work centers the lived experiences of Dalit individuals, recognizing them as “bearers of knowledge” rather than mere subjects of study. The authors argued that while their ancestors “performed miracles” through scientific and technological advancements in metal, leather, and music, the lack of preservation has led to a gradual fading of these skills.
In the meantime, the launch featured critical reflections from prominent academic and research figures. Professor Bidya Nath Koirala challenged the traditional portrayal of Dalits by politicians and academia. “Activists and social reformers have long projected Dalits as persons living in abject poverty with low literacy,” Prof. Koirala remarked. “This narrative shadowed their wisdom and creativity. This book is an attempt to restore the Vedic position to the Dalits as ‘Bishwakarma’—the divine architect. If this identity is restored, Dalits will be regarded as creators and interdependent beings essential to the nation’s future.”
Dr. Sunita Sharma, a researcher who followed the project closely, highlighted the scientific depth of the findings. She noted that the “native technologies” documented—developed by artisans who may have never entered a university—often remain beyond the comprehension of modern scientists.
“This initiative owes its foundation to the pioneering efforts of Dr. Nepali,” Dr. Sharma added. “His work has created a vital archive that safeguards both tangible and intangible heritage, challenging dominant narratives that have long overlooked these communities.”
The book is more than a publication; it is a “cultural archive”. It is organized into ten comprehensive sections that bridge the gap between ancient craft and modern science: Utensils & Vessels: A study of functional household art; Ornaments & Musical Instruments: Exploring the aesthetic and rhythmic soul of Nepal; Rituals & Shamanic Activities: Documenting the spiritual tools that define Nepali identity; and Production, Technology & Science: A groundbreaking look at “Dalit Native Knowledge” as a scientific discipline.
Unlike traditional academic texts, this book is based on three and a half decades of field research conducted across the Himalayas, Hills, and Terai. It utilizes a rigorous methodology involving 237 key informants and direct archaeological assessment.
Another defining feature is its rich visual documentation. The book serves as a comprehensive photographic archive, containing hundreds of high-quality images of rare arts and artifacts. Every object featured in the photographs has been personally collected and preserved by Dr. Govinda Sarki Nepali in a dedicated museum. These images provide a rare, first-hand look at indigenous tools and technology, sacred ritual objects and cultural artifacts.
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