Bhesh Narayan Dahal, director General of Department of Archaeology under Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, has been dedicated in field of Archaeology for 28 years now. 

Earning his master’s degree in Nepali History, Culture and Archaeology from Tribhuwan University in 2043 BS, he further earned a Post Graduate Diploma in Archaeology from the Institute of Archaeology, New Delhi, India. 

He is also engaged in teaching and works as a visiting lecturer for Archaeology and Heritage Conservation at Public Administration Campus and Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management, NATHAM.

What challenges exist in the field of Archaeology?
Unlike other stations of work, the field of archaeology demands rigorous research and investigation to be conducted, which makes the outcome procedure quite lengthy and gradually visible. The lack of skilled craftsmen has also hindered to make fast progress in the field. Since the department of Archaeology plays a pivotal role in nation development, the challenge today lies in efforts made to aware maximum number of people to lead their steps for the preservation of national properties. Authoritative bodies should also work in collaboration for the process to go hand-in-hand.

Has archaeology changed over the decades?
Since Nepal is a culturally rich country, we receive a huge number of tourists each year that prefer to be amused by the tangible and intangible cultural heritages. Nepal has the gift of numerous cultural, religious and historical monuments that have continued to exist from historical times. Hence, the research process in the field of archaeology has been growing with time. There are few excavations being carried out in Lumbini, Kakre Bihar and Nawalparasi, which ensures the widening scope and growing field of Archaeology. 

What is the progress in post-quake reconstruction of archaeological sites?
We have reconstructed 43 religious sites in 14 districts of Nepal in association with the Peace and Reconstruction Ministry. With the constant support from national and international organizations, we have succeeded to reconstruct about 58 national heritages so far. We are also looking forward to taking up projects for the reconstruction of as many as 363 religious and historical monuments, out of which 56 have already been reconstructed.

What future projects does the Department of Archaeology have?
The Department of Archaeology is conducting a three-week training program in coordination with Federation of Handicraft Associations of Nepal from August 11 in order to provide training on craftsmanship. Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between the governments of China and Nepal, the renovation of Nau Tale Durbar is taking place from August 15. Also, the Gaddhi Baithakha will be renovated under the British architecture of Neo-classical design.

Would you like to convey any message to our readers?
The pride of a nation lies in its cultural and historical assets. As our nation is rich with myriad heritages, we hold that pride and it is our responsibility to keep these values and heritages preserved. Since they are not only a source of revenue but the manifestation of our history, culture, tradition and identity, youths hold the major responsibility to lend their hands for the preservation of valuables and cultures such as Dhimey Baaja, Rodi and Kauda Naach that are on the verge of extinction.