India, Nepal jointly inaugurate restored Gusthal Mahavihar in Lalitpur
Lalitpur, July 28
India and Nepal on Tuesday jointly inaugurated the restored Shree and Agam of Prathamshree Mahavihar at Guita Tole, Patan, as part of efforts to preserve Nepal's cultural heritage damaged in the 2015 earthquake.
Indian Ambassador to Nepal Naveen Srivastava, Lalitpur Metropolitan City Mayor Chiribabu Maharjan, and Member of Parliament Jagdish Kharel jointly inaugurated the rebuilt Buddhist monastery. The dignitaries participated in traditional ceremonies and unveiled an inaugural plaque at the historic site, which was severely damaged in the 2015 earthquake.
The restoration project was funded by a Government of India grant of approximately NPR 12 crores (roughly USD 9 million) and was executed by Nepal's Central Level Project Implementation Unit (CLPIU- Building & Housing) under the Department of Urban Development and Building Construction. The Indian National Trust for Arts and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) provided design and project management consultancy for the project.
Speaking at the event, MP Jagdish Kharel praised the resilience of the local community and highlighted the importance of preserving Nepal's ancient living heritage sites. He also expressed gratitude for India's support in restoring culturally significant monuments.
Mayor Chiribabu Maharjan thanked the Government of India for its extensive contributions towards the reconstruction and restoration of cultural heritage sites across Lalitpur and other districts. He also commended the local community for its active involvement in the project.
"These reconstructed structures stand as enduring symbols of shared heritage and friendship between our two nations," Ambassador Naveen Srivastava remarked.
The Indian Ambassador highlighted the deep-rooted cultural ties between India and Nepal and India's continued commitment to supporting the conservation of Nepal's historic monuments.
The Gusthal Mahavihar project is part of India's broader post-earthquake reconstruction assistance to Nepal. To date, India has supported the conservation of 30 cultural heritage sites across eight districts.
India's assistance also includes the reconstruction of 50,000 private houses in Gorkha and Nuwakot districts, 85 educational institutions across eight districts, and 133 health facilities across 11 districts.
Officials from the Nepali government's CLPIU, local community representatives, and Embassy of India staff attended the inauguration.
The project highlights the development partnership between India and Nepal and complements Kathmandu's efforts to rebuild and preserve the country's architectural and cultural legacy following the devastating 2015 earthquake.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good initiative by the Government of India, but I wish we also focus on restoring our own heritage sites in states like Kashmir and Uttar Pradesh. That said, helping Nepal is a sign of regional cooperation. The 2015 earthquake was devastating, and rebuilding these temples and monasteries is a long-term commitment. Respect to INTACH for their work.
Great to see India and Nepal working together on preserving cultural heritage. As an outsider looking in, it's fascinating how deeply intertwined these two countries are. The 2015 earthquake was a tragedy, but this restoration is a step towards healing. Kudos to all involved!
I remember visiting Patan Durbar Square before the earthquake - it was breathtaking. The fact that India is helping rebuild not just this Mahavihar but 30 other sites across Nepal is commendable. However, I do think INR 12 crores is a modest amount for such a project. Hope the funds are used transparently and efficiently. Also, why only 8 districts? Nepal has many other affected areas.
Beautiful collaboration! 🕊️ It's wonderful to see countries prioritize cultural preservation over politics. The 2015 earthquake was a disaster, but seeing these restored structures gives me hope. I hope this partnership continues and inspires other nations to support each other in preserving history.
This is the "Neighbourhood First" policy in action! India has always been a reliable partner for Nepal in times of need. The restoration of Gusthal Mahavihar is a symbol of our civilizational ties. But let's also remember that Nepal is not a client state - such
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