A Pauba art exhibition that has on display works by 85 up and coming artists is currently on display at Khwopa Guest House in Bhaktapur. Featuring artists such as Prem Man Chitrakar, Uday Charan Shrestha, Deepak Joshi, Yogendra Shakya and Raj Prasad Tuladhar, among others, the exhibit is the sixth iteration of the annual Pauba exhibit held in the city.

Inagurated jointly by Narayan Man Bijukchhe and Satya Mohan Joshi on Saturday, veteran artists Mukti Singha Thapa and Narayan Laxmi Karangit were honoured for their lifelong contribution to Nepali arts. Speaking at the event, cultural expert Joshi, highlighted the importance of Pauba paintings and how it is interwoven with Nepal’s history. 

At the opening, secretary of the organisers Khyaapa Paubha Chawmi Pucha:Ka, Purna Prasad Hejyaju shared his delight over the increase in Paubha artists over the years. He said, “Paubha art has a special significance in Nepali art and it has been able to attract non-Nepalis as well, so it’s really nice to see the younger generation taking interest in it.” However, he expressed sadness over the lack of interest by the state towards arts and its preservation. 

One of the artist, Raj Kumar Rana Magar said, “We hope that this art exhibit will help attract more people towards Paubha art as well as encourage the artists to continue their work in this field.”

The exhibit which is also on display at the Bhakatpur Durbar Square will come to a close on Tuesday.