10 interesting facts about Handicrafts of Nepal

Nepalese handicrafts portray the oldest civilization in the world. They are made in connection to various cultures, traditions, ethnicities and a unique way of life. Handicrafts of Nepal are an important thing because of the creativity, dignity, culture, tradition and exceptional skills of the artisans. It is a fact that Nepal has a wide and diversified variety of handicrafts that have gained recognition worldwide. 

It is interesting to know that handicrafts of Nepal are thought to have begun in Nepal around the Licchavi period (300-879 AD), yet there is no formal record of the first handcraft of Nepal. However, the Malla dynasty controlled Nepal from the 13th to the 18th century, which greatly aided in the enrichment of the quality, authenticity, and originality of Nepalese handicrafts. Although the world has been overtaken by hi-tech series, the eco-friendly handicrafts of Nepal are not of less importance. Many people explain that having traditional and authentic Nepali handicrafts with them gives them immense pleasure, as well as those pieces take them back to their histories. Handicrafts of Nepal are the glories to cherish wherever you go around the world. 

Here are some of the facts about the Handicrafts of Nepal. 

Handicrafts of Nepal make up a huge industry worldwide

Handicrafts of Nepal are cherished by people all over the world. They are taken by many people all around the world as a gift to their dear ones. Additionally, locals are also fond of beautifully crafted handmade pieces. Nepali handicrafts have made up a billion dollars industry worldwide. Every year Nepali handicrafts are exported worth over 5 to 7 billion. This makes the Nepali handicrafts one of the largest industries in the country. 

Impactful employment opportunities

As handicrafts of Nepal make up one of Nepal’s biggest industries, this sector is also known for providing employment opportunities to a large number of people. Many artisans, including women, single women, and differently-abled people, along with other local people and Nepal’s underprivileged category, have been able to get job opportunities in this sector. 

Handicrafts of Nepal are the sources of foreign exchange earnings

It is another interesting fact that handicrafts of Nepal are the most important sources of foreign exchange earnings for Nepal. 

Major Export Markets

Handicrafts of Nepal are not popular among just locals. It has a huge influence on foreigners and foreign markets. Handicrafts of Nepal are mostly exported to the markets of the United States, Europe, Japan and China. However, it isn’t limited only to these markets. Other countries such as UAE and Australia also have high demands for Nepali handicrafts.

Special Demands

It is surprising to know that Nepali handicrafts that are mostly sold are Pashmina products, Tibetan singing bowls, Textile products, Bamboo products, and Wood carvings. These products have the highest demand in the local as well as in the foreign market. 

Time is taken to make a Thangka

Thangka is one of the most popular Nepali handicrafts, which has religious value, especially in the Buddhist tradition. These are beautiful paintings dedicated to Buddhists devotees. It is amazing to know that painting a Thangka takes several months to complete. It is really hard work that preserves history. 

Worldwide Popularity of the Statues

Handcrafted Nepali statues made of brass, bronze, and clay are collector’s goods that are well-known around the world.

Unique Scalpel in the World

Khukuris are another most popular handicrafts of Nepal. It is also a unique and efficient handcrafted blade in the world. These have great significance because Gurkha soldiers used them during the war against their enemy. 

Thousands of Years of Perseverance  

Mithila art which is another significant Nepali handicraft, has come along thousands of years. Although these arts are from centuries back, they were made from eco-friendly materials that are interesting. 

Single Family Keeping the Art Alive 

The Tamrakar Family of Patan is known for its traditional metalwork. They are said to be preserving various traditions and cultures of the country. Likewise, this typical Tamrakarare family is known to keep this art alive for generations by handing it down through the coming generations.

All the facts above make the handicrafts of Nepal more valuable. All those Nepali handicrafts have come through the generations making them more beautiful and meaningful and at the same time preserving them. It amazes me to know how much popularity Nepali handicrafts have gained over the years, adding to becoming one of the most important industries of Nepal.