We are honored to share a recent project: an in-depth interview with the esteemed Anjana Shakya, co-founder of Bodhisattva, conducted on the occasion of Women’s Day. As you know, we are deeply committed to telling stories of art, and Mrs. Shakya’s invaluable work in safeguarding Nepalese art, culture, and heritage is a testament to the dedication we admire. We sought to illuminate her remarkable journey and share her inspiring story with our audience.
In this interview, we had the privilege of discussing Mrs. Shakya’s lifelong dedication to preserving Nepal’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. We explored her early and enduring awareness of women’s rights issues and her unwavering commitment to empowering women in Nepal. Mrs. Shakya shared profound insights on the vital importance of supporting living artists and ensuring the financial viability of traditional art forms. We also touched upon the powerful and transformative role art plays in healing, particularly during times of adversity.
Conversation Summary:
This interview with Anjana Shakya covers her extensive work in human rights, her upbringing in a culturally rich environment, and her deep involvement in art and culture. Key topics include:
- Early Influences: Mrs. Shakya’s consciousness of women’s rights began at a young age, and her upbringing in Tero Buddhism shaped her values.
- Work in Women’s Rights: She has worked to change laws, build women’s leadership, and empower women, including starting the Beyond Beijing committee.
- Transition to Art and Culture: Her husband’s influence and her cultural background led to her involvement in art. She emphasizes preserving traditional art and supporting living artists.
- Bodhisattva Gallery: The gallery showcases art and educates about its cultural significance, featuring thematic exhibitions.
- Women in Art: While women contribute significantly to art creation, their recognition is often lacking.
- Collecting Art: Art enhances mental and spiritual health, and young people should start collecting.
- Vision for the Future: Mrs. Shakya aims to promote Nepalese art, involve youth, and make the Poman Sakya Memorial Art Award significant.
- Message for Women’s Day: She encourages women to actively participate in the arts, prioritizing passion and dedication.
This interview serves as a meaningful extension of the conversations we consistently feature on our podcast. We have long emphasized the significance of cultural preservation and the stories of individuals who make a lasting impact. Mrs. Shakya’s work embodies these essential values. Furthermore, we have explored the multifaceted roles of women across various fields, and her perspective adds a crucial and enriching dimension to these discussions.
We were deeply inspired by Mrs. Shakya’s profound passion and her practical, yet visionary, approach to preserving cultural heritage. It was a true honor to hear her personal narrative and her insightful vision for the future of Nepalese art. We sincerely hope you find this interview as insightful and inspiring as we did.
We invite you to watch the full interview with Anjana Shakya on our website. We encourage you to share your thoughts on Mrs. Shakya’s invaluable work and the importance of preserving cultural heritage in the comments below.
Watch full podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VXt0SOTojUM