Spaces_is 9

EDITORIAL
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“In recent times, the Nepalese architectural movement - if you would like to call
it that - has seen a revival of neo-classical styles …… which shows just how
bankrupt we have become! Architects are culture-building professionals and
are socially responsible. And some time in the future, people will say that in the
20 th . century, the Nepalese were so fond of this neo-classical architecture. This
is not our cultural statement! This is not our economic statement! This is not
saying something of insight!”
– Professor Sudarshan Raj Tiwari
This issue focuses primarily on our cultural heritage. The need to preserve
something identified globally as of outstanding universal value is no doubt important
and should be given prime priority. Most of us take things for granted, not realizing
its worth, until you lose it or else someone drills it into your head or makes you
aware of its uniqueness, beauty and value. One must consider himself fortunate
if the realization comes in time and it is given due attention.
Words of Wisdom
See page 42
The identification by the World Heritage Convention to inscribe the seven
monument ensembles of the Kathmandu Valley as a World Heritage Site in 1979
and again to put them in the endangered list in 2003 has done just that - globally.
They must be given due credit, whatever the mistakes made by whichever party
during its restoration and preservation, since making mistakes is a process of
learning and realization. Although some may still argue on the issue of who
should be given authority to make that mistake, or what should be the process,
this again is debatable and priorities as well as authority may overrule normal
common sense. Take for example the historical buildings destroyed recently in
Palpa. They may not be heritage, but they were certainly historical and people of
Palpa identified themselves with it.
However, everything is not lost. Realization will come sooner or later. People are
more aware of this reality than they were before, added to the fact that architects
and engineers are being produced here in Nepal who are taught to appreciate our
cultural background. And there are people already campaigning for this universal
cause who must be encouraged howsoever we can. At the same time, it would
seem to be a vital need of the times for students of architecture and engineering
to be exposed to much more regarding the importance of preservation. The
concerned centres of learning will need to improve their curriculum and teaching
methods substantially so that the concerned professionals of tomorrow become
leaders in the constant battle to save heritage.
Although the sun will still rise from the east and we will continue to worship it
since our culture is our characteristic and uniqueness, hopefully the coming
generation will learn from the mistakes we all have made and we shall remain as
we were – a rich and distinct culture.
Endangered Heritage
See page 66
Masterful Strokes
See page 24
8 MAR-APR 2006 SPACES