Kathmandu: President Ramchandra Paudel has emphasized the importance of preserving the country’s invaluable heritages, highlighting the role of all three tiers of government in the development, conservation, and promotion of these sites, which embody a multi-ethnic and multi-linguistic culture.
According to National News Agency Nepal, President Paudel made these remarks during the inauguration ceremony of the reconstructed Shree Degutaleju Temple and the unveiling of a stone inscription in the Patan Durbar Area. He underscored the necessity of raising awareness and consciousness among citizens regarding heritage conservation. He stated that these heritages provide a crucial link for future generations to understand their history and ancestors, and preserving them is a shared responsibility.
President Paudel highlighted Nepal’s unique geographical diversity and the numerous natural, religious, cultural, and historical sites that contribute to the national pride of Nepalis. He noted that the Degutaleju Temple, a significant heritage site within the World Heritage-listed Patan Durbar Area, enhances Nepal’s international reputation as a destination for both domestic and foreign tourists. Despite challenges posed by the Gorkha earthquake, the successful reconstruction of the temple has augmented the site’s beauty.
Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Badri Pandey commended the efforts of Lalitpur in preserving its heritage and culture. He acknowledged the vital role of Japan’s cooperation and the dedication of locals in the decade-long reconstruction process, which maintained the site’s historical and archaeological integrity. The minister called for prioritizing Nepal’s cultural and natural diversity to establish the country as an open museum known worldwide.
Japanese Ambassador to Nepal Maeda Toru praised the successful reconstruction efforts, attributing them to the continuous support of the international community and the dedicated efforts of Nepalis. He expressed hope for the Degutaleju Temple to symbolize lasting friendship between Nepal and Japan.
Mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City Chiribabu Maharjan shared that the reconstruction of archaeological heritages was completed by a local committee, ensuring community involvement. He expressed confidence that the restored heritages would withstand future earthquakes, even those exceeding the magnitude of the 2072 BS earthquake.
Chairperson of the Degutaleju Temple Reconstruction Committee, Kiran Man Pradhan, expressed satisfaction with the successful completion of the temple’s rebuilding. He emphasized the work done for future generations by restoring this significant historical heritage.