Fidel Devkota studying archaeological artifacts in Mustang

By A Staff Reporter,Kathmandu, Apr. 20: Fidel Devkota, an anthropologist, film writer, and director, is currently conducting research on archaeological artifacts in Dhetang, Mustang. 

He discussed his research focusing on the ‘Documentation of Discovery: Petroglyphs and Pictographs in Dhetang Mustang’ during a programme held in Kathmandu on Friday.

Jointly organised by the Nepal Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA) and Siddharth Art Foundation under the Kathmandu Triennale, the programme aimed to shed light on the historical and archaeological significance of art in the Dhetang area of Mustang.

Devkota discussed the history of archaeological art in the Dhetang area of Mustang, the current situation, and the necessary work for future preservation efforts.

 He emphasised that individual research alone would not yield effective results, urging attention from relevant fields. 

Expressing concern over the gradual disappearance of many ancient artifacts in Mustang, Devkota stressed the importance of locating, documenting and archiving them properly.

Sangeeta Thapa, President of Siddharth Art Foundation, said that such programmes were conducted to significantly advance the path of art discovery and research.

 She insisted that the foundation would continue such programmes in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

Lal Kaji Lama, Vice Chancellor of the academy, said that research is an ongoing academic process, never a finished subject.

 He said, “This is not only a historical and archaeological subject of Nepali art but also research of human civilisation. In such academic work, the academy supports as much as possible from its capacity.” 

Lama stressed the need to explore and research various topics in the field of Nepali fine arts in a centralised manner.

Fidel Devkota ‘s critically acclaimed film ‘The Red Suitcase’ is currently being screened in cinemas.

 After being screened at numerous national and international film festivals, including its premiere at the Venice Film Festival, the movie has now arrived in Nepali cinema theaters.