ENCOUNTER

“Past is an encyclopedia to future”

Dr. Saphalya Amatya is presently a Joint Secretary in the Ministry of  Youth, Sports and Culture. He has served HMG Department of Archaeology for more than 30 years.  His background is M.A in history from Tribhuvan University, M.Phil, Ph.D in history from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi; Post Graduate Diploma in Archives Keeping, National Archives, New Delhi and Stage Technique des Archives, National Archives of France.  The excerpts of his interview with The Independent:

Q: What is the status of Nepal in the world of archaeology?

A:  Out status in this field is gaining importance increasingly.The discoveries of cave settlements or Chalcolithic culture dated back to 2000 B.C to 5000 B.C in Mustang district of western Nepal, has created interest in archaeologists from all over the world. Similarly the numerous Buddhist archaeological sites of western Nepal dated back to 8th century B.C has also increased the interest of archaeologists. The findings of Paleolithic and Neolithic tools in different districts of the country; for example in Dang and Nawalparasi districts of the western Nepal drew the attention of Paleo-archaeologists and geologists from all over the world.

Q: There obviously must be more waiting to be discovered. Are works being carried out to unearth more?

A: In Nepal,  archaeological activities have started only very recently. Not even five per cent of the work has been undertaken till date. There are hundreds of potential sites all over the kingdom. For example, the cave settlements from Darchula to Olangcuk Gola in the east; about forty to fifty Buddhist sites in Rupandehi and Kapilvastu districts; dozens of medieval sites in the hills and Terai regions and many others.

Q: Many ancient priceless idols of the country have been stolen. Why do you think was it so easy for the thieves to steal the heritage of our country?

A: As it was popularly known, once upon a time in Kathmandu valley there were more idols than people. Even today be it on the streets, on the banks of rivers, in the villages and in any open spaces, one can see one or more well carved idols or in stone forms. Only in few places are the idols guarded by temple guards or vigilance of some sort exist. In a majority of cases, they are just left open and thus vulnerable to theft.

Q: Why was there lack of strict measures from the government’s side after a few such incidents in the early seventies?

A:  The government has always been vigilant. Unlike in many developed countries, we do not have monument police or a special branch in the police force to look after such incidents.

Q: Do you think the police department has played its role effectively regarding the protection of the monuments and in catching the thieves?

A:  I have found that the police here have always been cooperative and they do take interest in solving such cases.

Q: Is DOA working on getting back other stolen images?

A:  DOA has always been active in retrieving the stolen images. The recent case was the third in such attempts. This policy will be continued.

Q: Is there enough support from the government and cooperation from the local communities to find out our ancient treasures and to preserve them?

A: Due to many reasons, HMG has not yet been able to give due priority to the preservation and conservation of our cultural heritage. We hope that under the new Ministry, our cultural heritage both tangible and intangible will receive adequate support. As for the local communities, after the establishment of the popular constitutional government in 2047, people’s interest and participation is increasing.  This is an encouraging trend.

Q: Who is responsible for the renovation works being carried out in the temples here? How many temples in the valley alone are in dire need of renovation? How are temples outside the valley being maintained?

A: HMG, DOA, Guthi Samsthan, Municipalities, Village Development Committees (VDC), Lama Tatha Gumba Vabastha Samiti (under the Ministry of local development) are the main agencies responsible for renovation, restoration and maintenance of our monuments.  About 80 per cent of the monuments in our country are concentrated in Kathmandu valley. Roughly speaking, only about 20 per cent of our monuments are in good shape. In my opinion, the condition of monuments out side the valley is not so disappointing.

Q: Patan museum is an excellent example of renovation. Could other museums follow the example?

A: I, being one of the architects of the museum, this appreciation comes as an encouragement. Thanks. HMG is working to develop other museums also in this model.

Q: Chauni museum looks dull in comparison. Could it not be livened up?

A: Apart from the Historical section, the Art gallery and the Buddhist gallery are very well kept and exhibited. The collection of this museum is so vast that any visitor who does not have much interest in history, is likely to get bored after a while. One can also easily tire after walking through its big galleries.

Q: Are many young students taking up archaeology as a profession? How could its image as a dull and non paying job be changed into something challenging and rewarding?

A: Archaeology or the study of ancient history and culture is very popular in Nepal. Mostly girls like to study this subject. At present, the DOA is totally under the administration and guidance of lady officers. As a profession, it is certainly a non -paying one but it is a very challenging profession. It gives you utmost satisfaction if you really like to study your history and culture.

Q: What importance does archaeology hold in our lives?

A: Archaeology is the base of our history and cultural studies. Without its knowledge, we cannot understand our past. Past is always an encyclopedia to future.

Q: What would the present generation leave for the future?

A: My answer to this is the big C, the computer. The computer might or might not preserve, protect and promote humanity. It depends on our moral education, family and ultimately on society.

Q: How can culture and heritage be kept alive?

A: For anything you want to protect, preserve and promote; we need to first love, support  and utilise it. Culture and heritage have to be treated in the same manner.