.gif)
A day-long workshop on Tharu Astimki artwork, jointly organized by the Agrasan Tharu Mahila Samaj, Kathmandu, and the Nepal Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA), showcased the indigenous painting traditions of the Tharu community and underscored the urgent need to revive this mural art form.
Held to mark the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, the workshop aimed to highlight the cultural significance of Astimki artwork and pass on this ritual painting tradition to younger generations.
Inaugurating the event, NAFA Chancellor Naradmani Hartamchhali emphasized the global potential of indigenous art forms like Astimki and other elements of Nepali cultural heritage. “Such initiatives foster unity and goodwill, while raising awareness. The question of ‘who we are’ can be explored through a deeper understanding of our cultures,” he said.
Describing Astimki as a unique identity of the Tharu community, Hartamchhali stressed that its preservation and promotion are vital to strengthening national unity.
Speaking at the event, Kiran Chaudhary, Vice-Chairperson of Agrasan Tharu Mahila Samaj, said the workshop aimed to highlight the importance of Astimki and ensure that this cultural knowledge is passed down to the next generation.
During a presentation at the workshop, Tharu culture researcher Satrughan Chaudhary described Astimki not only as a visual art form but also as a performative tradition. He explained that the drawings and accompanying songs reflect the Tharu community’s philosophy of life. However, he expressed concern that this culturally significant tradition is slowly fading under the pressures of modernization and digital influence.
Astimki murals are traditionally created on the walls of homes during the Astimki festival, which coincides with Shree Krishna Janmashtami, the birthday of Lord Krishna.
The workshop saw participation from over 50 individuals. Artists Bishnu Chaudhary and Balaram Chaudhary led the training sessions on Astimki mural techniques.
.jpeg)
.gif)
