Basantapur’s Legacy: The Story of Generational Transmission in Curio Shop and the Changing Bazaar (Seven Photos)

Kathmandu.  Basantapur Durbar Square in the heart of Kathmandu is not just a museum of historical monuments. It is also a patron of vibrant art and culture through its old curio shops. For decades, these shops have been promoting Nepal’s identity to the world.

Most of the businessmen here have been doing business in this place for five to six generations. They are not only transcending business, but also culture. There is that magic of Nepali art and skill in these materials.

Which will enchant anyone. Most of the crafts found here are exquisite handicrafts, sculptures and original jewelry woven and carved by Nepali hands. Nepalis are increasingly buying these handicraft items, not just for decoration and gifts, but also to preserve their originality.

These curio shops, which were once the choice of foreign tourists only, are now seeing an increasing number of Nepali customers. Times have changed, customers have changed, but the fragrance of Nepali art carried by these curio shops of Basantapur and the legacy of generational transmission are still the same.