KATHMANDU, MAY 12
A state-of-the-art conservation centre within the premises of the Lumbini Museum in Lumbini, the birthplace of the Buddha and UNESCO World Heritage Site, was launched on the eve of Buddha Jayanti (May 11).
A press release issued on May 11 called the Lumbini Museum Conservation Center "a milestone in Nepal's cultural heritage preservation efforts," adding that this specialised facility is the first of its kind in Nepal.
It will serve as a hub for the scientific preservation, conservation, restoration, and study of the region's invaluable archaeological heritage, including terracotta artefacts, stone sculptures, and architectural remains spanning over two millennia of Buddhist history, the release added.
The statement also mentioned that the lab, equipped with diagnostic tools, restoration workspaces, and climate-controlled storage, will address the urgent conservation challenges of objects that have been discovered through extensive archaeological efforts.
The lab will conduct preventive and remedial conservation work, provide training and capacity-building for local heritage professionals and students for sustainable conservation, and facilitate research collaborations with national and international institutions, the release stated.
"This lab is more than just a facility, what this is, is part of a larger effort to build conservation expertise in the country, training programmes for local professionals and students," the press statement quoted Jason Meeks, Deputy Chief of Mission, US Embassy Nepal, as saying. He was further quoted as stating that this will "ensure that this work continues well into the future."
Badri Pandey, Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, was quoted as highlighting that the conservation centre will strengthen research, conservation, and education in Nepal and inspire Nepal to dream of becoming a leader and centre of conservation excellence in all of South Asia.
As per the release, the project is a collaborative effort involving The Buddha Foundation, US Embassy Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, Lumbini Development Trust, Department of Archaeology, with support from Anupam Heritage Lab experts and local stakeholders.
Lumbini Museum Conservation Center aims to become a regional centre of excellence and collaboration for Buddhist heritage conservation in South Asia.
