As one of the cultural hotspots of Nepal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Bhaktapur, the Kathmandu valley boasts of very rich artistic traditions. Among its various crafts, the making of traditional masks is a distinct and vibrant art form that symbolizes Nepal’s rich cultural and spiritual past. These intricate masks, often found in rituals and festivities, serve a purpose far beyond mere decoration; they embody an art of commitment, storytelling, and skilled work.
The Origins of Mask Making in Bhaktapur
Image source: The Kathmandu Post
The age-old tradition of making masks in Bhaktapur and creating the moon shapes is as ancient as the country itself. From the Newar communities of Nepal, it is customary to use masks in the performances, celebrations, and rituals as Mahakali Naach and Gaijatra that feature images of in nature gods or goddesses and their sinister counterparts. The masks are considered vehicles that carry or encapsulate such spirits, thereby making them an important aspect of culture and religion.
The Craftsmanship Behind the Masks
Image source: iStock
Traditional masks in Bhaktapur are carefully handmade and demand a high level of craftsmanship. Wood, clay, papier-mâché, and metal are the primary materials used by artisans to make these magnificent creations. Here’s how these masks come to life:
- Design and Carving: The basic structure of the mask is built up using strong and sturdy materials like wood or clay. The intricate features are carved by expert craftsmen, mostly looking at the images of gods and goddesses.
- Painting and Decoration: The masks are then painted using natural colors in bright shades. There is a significance to each’s color: red is in the case of power, yellow is in the case of wisdom, and white is associated with purity.
- Completing the Mask: The use of gold leaf, beads, and other embellishments serves to enhance the significance and beauty of the mask.
Cultural Significance of Masks
In the cultural festivities and rituals of Bhaktapur, the use of traditional masks is of utmost importance. For example:
- Mahakali Naach: This unique dance drama showcases the fight between gods and demonic spirits. The actors wear elaborate masks to represent the deities and demigods.
- Indra Jatra: Masks play a significant role in the processions and dances performed during the most celebrated festival of Bhaktapur, the Indra Jatra.
- Navadurga Dance: This form of dance has a religious significance, and while performing this dance, masks representing the nine forms of Goddess Durga are used, which shows the artistic and religious aspect of the craft in a broader sense.
Keeping the Tradition Alive
Despite modernization, the artisans of Bhaktapur are dedicated to the use of this tradition. Decades on, families that have traditionally been involved in mask making still teach the craft to the children. Moreover, the activities of some local NGOs and tourist programs have also played a positive role in raising this craft and its practice, making it to the present age.
Where to Experience Mask Making in Bhaktapur
In Bhaktapur Durbar Square and the nearby areas, you can look forward to visiting the shops where the artisans portray their craft. Many shops also sell these masks, giving the foreigners a piece of the culture of Nepal.
Traditional Mask Making in Bhaktapur: A Timeless Art
Bhaktapur’s traditional mask-making is not merely a fine art; it has rather become a testament preserving the diverse cultural heritage of Nepal. In keeping with and applying this art, Bhaktapur lives and continues to amaze both resident and non-resident individuals. Wherever there is history appreciation, painting appreciation, or rather, travel for something out of the ordinary, this hidden jewel cannot be left out.
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