Basantapur Durbar Square Curio Shops: Guardians of Living Art and Cultural Heritage

The Basantapur Durbar Square area, located in the heart of Kathmandu, is not just a museum of historical monuments. Through its old curio shops, it is also a custodian of living art and culture. For decades, these shops have been carrying Nepal's identity to the world. Many of the business owners here have been trading in this very location for five to six generations. This is transferring not just the business, but also the culture across generations. These items possess the magic of Nepali art and skill that mesmerizes anyone. The items found here are mostly exquisite handicrafts, sculptures, and original jewelry woven and carved by Nepali hands. The trend of Nepalis purchasing these handicraft items is increasing, not just for decoration and gifts, but also to preserve their originality. While these curio shops were once the choice only of foreign tourists, the hustle and bustle of Nepali customers has now noticeably increased. Times have changed, customers have changed, but the fragrance of Nepali art and the legacy of generational transfer carried by these Basantapur curio shops remain equally strong. These pictures were captured by photojournalist Anup Pradhan of News Agency Nepal in today's photo feature. Photos: Anup Pradhan/News Agency Nepal