My first encounter with Khokana dates back to 2001–2002 when I was a fine arts student at Lalit Kala Campus. As part of my outdoor studies, I frequently visited the town to observe, practice, and document its architecture, narrow alleys, landscapes, and everyday life. These visits became an essential part of my artistic growth, deepening my understanding of Newa architecture, color and perspective studies, and the intricate social fabric of the community. They shaped me as an observer and a learner.
However, at the time, I was unaware of the profound cultural significance Khokana holds—both in its tangible heritage, such as its architecture and traditional spaces, and its intangible heritage, including its rituals, oral histories, and way of life. Though I returned a few times over the years for different purposes, it was only through the Two-Month Mural Art Residency: Learning from Khokana that I had the opportunity to truly reconnect with and rediscover the depth of knowledge embedded in this place.
This residency became a transformative experience, allowing me to understand not just what we can learn from a place, but also what a place itself can teach us. For me, a place is not merely a physical space; it is also a site of spiritual connection and continuous learning. Over the course of two months, I immersed myself in the community, its spaces, and its surroundings, learning from both the people and the artistic processes of Sujit Maharjan and Hitesh Vaidya. Witnessing their creative journey and the stunning murals they brought to life was inspiring and deeply enriching.
I am profoundly grateful to Sharareh for believing in my idea and vision, and to the two incredible artists, Sujit and Hitesh, for agreeing to be part of this residency and joining me on this journey. My heartfelt thanks also go to all the supporters, partners, volunteers, and, most importantly, the local community for welcoming us into Khokana with an open heart. Without them the project wouldn’t come to life. Thank you all.
Sanjeev Maharjan ideated and coordinated this mural art residency from December 2024 to February 2025. Artists Sujit Maharjan from Khona and Hitesh Vaidya from Khwopa have created murals that you can visit and explore in Gabu Lachhi and Dhokasi in Khokana. The key question around which the residency was organized was “What do we learn from a place? What can a place teach us?”
The two-month mural art residency was possible through the collaborative support of Srijanalaya, Shikshya Foundation Nepal, TheatreWorks Singapore, the local partner Lachhi. This residency is inspired by the years of work that Srijanalaya and Shikshya Foundation Nepal have done through ArtWorks! Sangai Khelaun.
