Kathmandu, Nov. 23 -- A sacred wooden toran-a carved ceremonial arch placed above traditional windows and doorways-stolen more than two decades ago from the historic Kumari House in Kathmandu has been restored to its original place.

The Kumari House, known locally as Kumari Bahal, is the residence of the Living Goddess and remains one of Basantapur's most significant heritage structures.

The toran, which had disappeared around 1999, was later discovered in a private gallery in the United Kingdom and formally handed back to Nepal through diplomatic efforts.

After its repatriation, it was kept at the National Museum in Chhauni until Kathmandu Metropolitan City decided earlier this month-under the leadership of Deputy Mayor Sunita Dango...