LALITPUR: Home Minister Sudan Gurung has called on the younger generation to embrace and preserve Nepal’s distinctive art, culture, traditions and customs, stressing the importance of protecting the country’s cultural heritage amid growing modernization and Western influences.
Addressing a programme organized in the Patan Durbar Square area of Lalitpur on Monday to mark Nepal Sambat 1147, Gurung said modernization should not come at the cost of the country’s unique cultural identity and ancestral traditions.
“Despite the growing influence of modernization and Western culture, we must not abandon the traditions and cultural heritage handed down by our ancestors. Lalitpur’s art, culture, architecture, geography and historical monuments have played a significant role in establishing Nepal’s identity on the international stage,” he said.
The Home Minister highlighted the contribution of Newar festivals, processions and cultural practices to strengthening social cohesion. He also commended the Newar community for its continued efforts to preserve and pass on its artistic and cultural heritage to future generations.
He urged all ethnic groups and communities to take responsibility for safeguarding Nepal’s cultural traditions and promoting them from their respective localities.
Expressing concern over the gradual decline in traditional Tihar and Deepawali celebrations, Gurung said cultural activities should not be unnecessarily restricted in the name of security arrangements. He emphasized the importance of continuing traditions such as Deusi-Bhailo, in which groups visit homes to sing traditional songs and celebrate together.
Stating that ensuring public security was the government’s responsibility, he said the government had decided to facilitate cultural activities around the clock so that people could observe their traditions freely and conveniently.
Extending his best wishes on the occasion of Nepal Sambat 1147, Gurung expressed hope that the New Year would inspire everyone to contribute positively to society and benefit from the blessings and guidance of their elders.
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