The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has embarked on a mission to resurrect the indigenous names of its cherished historical, cultural, and religious landmarks and reintegrate them into everyday usage.
In this endeavor, the local administration has engaged the expertise of cultural scholars, archaeologists, linguists, and historians. Their collective efforts are aimed at uncovering the original appellations of local settlements, temples, religious sanctuaries, water fountains, and stone spouts with profound historical and cultural significance.
Under the guidance of Ashaman Sangat, the coordinator of the Heritage and Tourism Committee at the Kathmandu Metropolitan City Office, the initiative has commenced in five specific wards: Wards 5, 6, 7, 18, and 24 within the metropolis.
Noteworthy revelations have already surfaced; for instance, the traditional name for what is commonly known as Handigau is Nara, while Boudha has been identified as Khasyor or Khasti in ancient archives. Similarly, the present-day Chabahil was historically referred to as Chabahi, Naradevi as Ngeta, and Makhan as Mankha.
This comprehensive program is designed to reclaim the historical, cultural, and archaeological essence of the city and is being facilitated by the Centre for Integrated Urban Development.
The revived names will be prominently showcased in scripts such as Ranjana, Devanagari, and English. Notably, as researcher Asmita Shrestha points out, the nameplates will bear a backdrop of red and black, reminiscent of the hues of Hakupatasi, the traditional attire of Newari women.
