KATHMANDU: A culturally significant artifact stolen from the Kumari Ghar, the residence of the Living Goddess in Kathmandu, has been brought back to Nepal from the United Kingdom.
The Department of Archaeology, working in coordination with heritage activists in Nepal and abroad, successfully retrieved the Toran—a decorative piece dating back to the Malla era—which had been stolen in 2057 BS. The artifact has now been restored to its original place in the Kumari Ghar.
According to Department officer Sarita Subedi, international law allows for the return of cultural heritage items once the required legal procedures are completed. She said that when Nepal receives information about the presence of a stolen artifact abroad, the government begins the formal process of bringing it back.
Subedi added that the country holding the artifact is responsible for covering transportation costs. Nepali communities overseas and heritage activists also play a vital role in facilitating the artifact’s return.
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