Kathmandu, March 29 -- In the Newa settlement of Khokana, the sound of chisels against wood echoes through narrow alleys lined with centuries-old architecture. For generations, woodcarving has been an intrinsic part of the town's identity; a craft passed down like an heirloom. Yet today, as rapid urbanisation, changing market demands, and the indifference of new generations threaten its continuity, Khokana's woodcarving artisans find themselves at a crossroads.

The owner of Lachhi Learning Centre, Hari Nath Dangol, deeply involved in promoting this field, speaks of his growing fear that "Craftsmanship is disappearing. And with it, our work will suffer." His sentiment echoes across the community: woodcarving, despite its historical signif...