KATHMANDU: Vice President Nanda Bahadur Pun has expressed concern over the encroachment on the indigenous art, culture and languages, and drawn the attention of stakeholders for their preservation.

Inaugurating the 10th congress of the Nepal Folklore Council in Kathmandu Tuesday, he called for preservation and promotion of the indigenous culture and handing it over to the future generation. The congress is organized in collaboration with Nepal Academy.

“The indigenous languages, culture and art are coming under increasing infringement. We are knowingly or unknowingly coming under this encroachment. Imagine what will happen to our identity if we lose our indigenous language, culture and art,” the Vice President said, warning of the consequences of losing our unique art, culture and language.

Stating that geography alone could not preserve our identity, he said nation is not only the geography but it incorporated the indigenous art, culture, language and traditions as well. “My request is that let us preserve our unique languages, art, culture and rituals. Let us preserve them and hand over to the future generation.”

The Vice President reminded that it is the responsibility of the State to preserve and promote all sectors concerned with folklore. The State should not shy away from this responsibility.

On the occasion, the Vice President appreciated the works being carried out by the Council and the support provided by Nepal Academy for the study, research, protection and promotion of the folklore. Five books related to Nepal’s folklore were also launched on the occasion.