Lachhi Learning Centre

Lachhi Learning Centre successfully conducted a Halimali Art and Coloring Session as an activity partner during the 10th Edition of Echoes in the Valley 2026 at Khokana. The session created a meaningful space where children and visitors connected art, agriculture, and culture through hands-on learning.

During the activity, students were introduced to the origin and purpose of Halimali Art, understanding why grains are arranged into symbolic patterns and how this tradition reflects gratitude towards nature, farmers, and food. Facilitators explained the deep connection of Halimali with agricultural cycles, community rituals, and Newa cultural values, helping students see art not just as creativity, but as a living heritage.

Through coloring and grain-based art-making, participants learned patience, teamwork, and storytelling while engaging their senses. The session encouraged respect for food, indigenous knowledge, and cultural continuity.

After completing the artwork, the prepared Halimali was offered as Daan and shared with everyone, reinforcing the values of sharing, generosity, and community bonding—core principles of the tradition.The session stood as a powerful example of experiential learning, showing how heritage-based activities can educate, inspire, and unite communities, especially the younger generation.

(Closing day of Second Heritage Camp-2026)
Final Day: Celebration and Appreciation
The final day of the Heritage Camp was a celebration of learning, confidence, and community. Participants presented cultural shows, showcasing songs, performances, and expressions inspired by what they had learned throughout the camp. Their confidence and enthusiasm reflected the true impact of experiential heritage education.

To honor everyone’s contribution, participants, facilitators, instructors, and supporters were appreciated with certificates and tokens of love. The smiles, applause, and shared moments made the closing program truly memorable.
The ending program was generously hosted at Nhusa Oil Mill, a meaningful venue that symbolizes Khokana’s living heritage and traditional livelihood.

Gratitude and Acknowledgements
1) This Heritage Camp would not have been possible without the collective support of many individuals and organizations. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to:
2) Supporters and Partners:
LMC–21, Academy of Culinary Arts Management and IT, Artbeat, and Beehive Design Studio for their continuous support in preserving heritage through education, art, and design.
3) Facilitators and Instructors who patiently guided students, shared knowledge, and created engaging learning spaces throughout the six days.
4) Our amazing cooks, Mandira and Nistha Didi, for preparing nutritious and delicious meals with love, making every day comfortable and joyful for the children.
5) Media Partners for covering and amplifying the program:
NTV, Nepalmandal, Khokana Channel, and Jitapur Channel, helping share this heritage journey with a wider audience.

Parents and Guardians for trusting Lachhi Learning Centre and supporting their children’s participation.Volunteers and Community Members who supported the program directly and indirectly with time, effort, and encouragement.
Photo: Khokana Channel (Binod Maharjan)

Learning Newa Games in Public Spaces of Khokana

As part of the Heritage Camp, students enthusiastically learned and played traditional Newa games in the public spaces of Khokana. The session introduced children to indigenous games such as Yankdala, Ghwnaya Kasa:, Tel Kasa:, Khipa Kasa:, Sula Kasa:, Gucha Kasa, and Dandhung Kasa, which have been played by generations in courtyards and community grounds.

These games are not only a source of joy but also play an important role in children’s physical development, coordination, teamwork, focus, and mental well-being. Through play, students learned discipline, strategy, cooperation, and the value of community bonding.

The session was led by Suroj Maharjan, with great support from dedicated volunteers, who helped guide the children and explain the cultural significance of each game. The lively atmosphere reminded everyone that public spaces in Khokana have always been living classrooms where culture, health, and happiness come together.

First Day of the Second Heritage Camp 2026

The first day of the Second Heritage Camp 2026 began with great enthusiasm and excitement among the students. The session was facilitated by Nirajala Maharjan and Manish Maharjan, who introduced children to the basics of Ranjana Lipi calligraphy. Students learned fundamental strokes, explored the Ranjana font, and understood its historical uses and cultural significance in the Newa community.

An introductory and interaction session was led by Suroj Maharjan, creating a warm and welcoming learning environment for the children. The program was smoothly supported by volunteer Angle Maharjan and the team, whose dedication helped make the day engaging and well-organized.

From holding the brush for the first time to practicing traditional strokes, the children showed remarkable curiosity and joy. Their excitement to learn calligraphy reflected the success of the day’s objective—connecting young learners with their heritage through hands-on experiences.

~Registration Open Now~
(2nd Heritage Camp 2026)
We are pleased to announce that registration is now open for the 2nd Heritage Camp 2026, organized by Lachhi Learning Centre at Lachhi, Khokana.

Camp Duration: 10th January – 15th January 2026
Age Group: 6 to 15 years

What will your child learn and experience?
1) Calligraphy – Learn traditional ranjana scripts and artistic basic strokes
2) Heritage Walk – Explore local heritage, history, and living traditions around Khokana
3️) Art & Crafts – Hands-on creative sessions inspired by indigenous knowledge and skills
4️) Pottery & Sculpture – Shape clay and understand traditional forms and their uses.
5️) Yomari Making & Indigenous Foods – Learn to make yomari and coloring on Farm to Table on how yomari is made (Learn Seasons and Foods in Newa Community)
6) Newa Traditional Games – Play indigenous newa games (Newa Kasa: ) and learn their cultural meaning and values, why it should be revive.

Final Day Exhibition & Showcase
On the last day of the camp, students will proudly showcase and exhibit what they have learned and created during the Heritage Camp—including artworks, crafts, photography, and culture performance. This exhibition allows children to express their learning, build confidence, and share their heritage journey with parents and the community.

Why should your child join this camp?
At Lachhi Learning Centre, we are trying to safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) by connecting children with living traditions through learning, play, food, and creativity.

This camp helps children to:
We encourage parents to register early, as seats are limited. This camp provides a meaningful environment for children to build creativity, cultural understanding, confidence, and connection to heritage.

Limited seats available!
For Offline Registration
Register Now (WhatsApp): 984-9153664
Lachhi (Ethnic Food, Living & Crafts)

For Online Registration
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdxe9mM5FH9I3kUpjyMwTdEJgOkKpvSyRCpy6iFSfYbeCw4DA/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=108803645579451244254

📢 OPEN CALL for Heritage Facilitator and Volunteer
2nd Heritage Camp 2026 – Khokana
Organized by: Lachhi Learning Centre

Lachhi Learning Centre is inviting passionate individuals to join our team for the 2nd Heritage Camp 2026, a unique learning and living heritage experience for children rooted in Newa culture, crafts, food, stories, and community knowledge.

Camp Dates: 10th January – 15th January 2026

Heritage Facilitator (1 Position)
Role:
• Lead and guide children through heritage-based activities
• Coordinate daily learning sessions with artisans and knowledge holders
• Support experiential, hands-on, and reflective learning

Volunteers (3 Positions)
Role:
• Support facilitators and artisans during sessions
• Assist children in activities, documentation, and logistics
• Help create a safe, joyful, and inclusive learning environment

Why Join the Lachhi Team & Heritage Camp?
• Be part of a meaningful heritage education movement rooted in local culture
• Learn directly from artisans, elders, and community knowledge holders
• Contribute to shaping children’s understanding of identity, culture, and sustainability
• Gain hands-on experience in heritage facilitation, community programs, and cultural events
• Connect with a passionate team working on culture, learning, and social impact in Nepal
• Receive recognition and experience valuable for future education, culture, and development work

This is more than a camp—it’s a living classroom, a community effort, and a step toward preserving and practicing heritage with the next generation.

How to Apply / Contact
WhatsApp: 9849153664
Call: 01-5592769
Email- [email protected]

~Yaku Nheelayu, Yaku Bwaneyu Program~

Khokana recently hosted the Yaku Nheelayu, Yaku Bwaneyu program, an engaging initiative aimed at promoting storytelling, Newa Lipi learning, and creative expression through coloring and drawing. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from children and women’s groups, fostering a vibrant atmosphere of cultural learning and artistic exploration.

The program was a joint effort by the Social Work Club of Thames, Thames International College, Lachhi Learning Centre, Shree Rudrayani School, Youth Dentistry Nepal, Rotaract Club of People's Dental College, and LMC-21 Khokana. Their collaboration ensured a dynamic and enriching experience for the participants, reinforcing the importance of preserving and celebrating indigenous knowledge and artistic traditions.
Through interactive sessions, children and women actively engaged in storytelling, learned the Newa script, and expressed their creativity through drawing and coloring. The event not only nurtured their artistic talents but also strengthened community bonds by reviving traditional storytelling and language learning in a fun and engaging manner.

The successful ex*****on of the Yaku Nheelayu, Yaku Bwaneyu program highlights the power of collaborative efforts in promoting cultural heritage and education in local communities.
Photo : Jaa Dangol

~Yaku Nheelayu, Yaku Bwaneyu Program~

Khokana recently hosted the Yaku Nheelayu, Yaku Bwaneyu program, an engaging initiative aimed at promoting storytelling, Newa Lipi learning, and creative expression through coloring and drawing. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from children and women’s groups, fostering a vibrant atmosphere of cultural learning and artistic exploration.

The program was a joint effort by the Social Work Club of Thames, Thames International College, Lachhi Learning Centre, Shree Rudrayani School, Youth Dentistry Nepal, Rotaract Club of People's Dental College, and LMC-21 Khokana. Their collaboration ensured a dynamic and enriching experience for the participants, reinforcing the importance of preserving and celebrating indigenous knowledge and artistic traditions.
Through interactive sessions, children and women actively engaged in storytelling, learned the Newa script, and expressed their creativity through drawing and coloring. The event not only nurtured their artistic talents but also strengthened community bonds by reviving traditional storytelling and language learning in a fun and engaging manner.

The successful ex*****on of the Yaku Nheelayu, Yaku Bwaneyu program highlights the power of collaborative efforts in promoting cultural heritage and education in local communities.

Photo : Jaa Dangol

~A Heartfelt Thank You~
Over the past two months, our Mural Residency Program at Khokana has been a transformative journey—a true celebration of art, community, and place. This collaborative initiative, brought to life by the combined efforts of Lachhi, Srijanalaya, Shikshya Foundation Nepal, and TheatreWorks in Singapore, and led by the incredibly talented Artist Sujit Maharjan and Hitesh Vaidya, has not only beautified our surroundings but has also deepened our understanding of what a place can teach us.

Learning from Khokana
Khokona is more than just a backdrop; it is a living classroom that has shared with us its rich traditions, timeless wisdom, and resilient spirit. Through this residency, Our Artist and Participants learned that every corner of Khokana holds a story waiting to be told—a narrative that has enriched our creative process and broadened our perspectives. The local community, women’s group and young artists had embraced these lessons, discovering the power of collective memory, the importance of preserving heritage, and the strength that comes from creative collaboration.

Our Deepest Gratitude
We are immensely grateful to everyone who has contributed to this project. Your support and generous spirit have been the cornerstone of our success. We would like to extend our special thanks to:
1) Community and Homeowners: Sabina Maharjan and Dashram Maharjan (homeowners for the mural in Dhokasi), Bekha Muni Maharjan (homeowner for the mural in Gabu), , Narayan Krishna Dangol, Prabhat Maharjan, and Rajendra Dangol (owners of the Gabu land next to the mural)

2) Photographers and Visual Storytellers:
Hari Bhakta Dangol (photographer and videographer), Bhim Dangol (photographer)

3) Innovators and Researchers:
Astendra Maharjan (entrepreneur and activist for self-sustaining living), Mona Lisa Maharjan (researcher sharing insights from Karunamaya), Suraj Maharjan (Heritage Researcher)

4) Community Leaders:
Buddhi Ratna Dangol (botanist, social worker, Dapha musician, and entrepreneur), Krishna Bhakta Maharjan (Principal of Shree Rudrayani Secondary School), Kiran Maharjan (teacher at Shree Rudrayani Secondary), Nithya Nath Bhajan Khala, and Dhokasi Mahila Samuha, Rabindra Maharjan (Chairperson, Lalitpur Metropolitan City – Ward 21)

5) Local Wisdom Keepers:
Gopi Lal Maharjan—whose enduring legacy carries the traditions of Khokana, and Krishna Hari Maharjan (social worker and retired government official from Rudrayani Guthi), whose local knowledge of farming has been invaluable

6) Entrepreneurs and Creative Artists:
Bikram Maharjan and Poonam Maharjan (entrepreneurs and mill owners), Kiran Maharjan (street artist), Pooja Duwal (visual artist), , and Rajan Dangol (Nepal Bhasa translator)

7) Community Groups:
Ta: Guthi, Sana: Guthi, and Ja: Guthi

***Our Mural Art Residency Team***
A special acknowledgment goes to our dedicated team who made this journey possible:

1) Project Leadership & Coordination:
Sanjeev Maharjan (Project Ideation and Coordination), Hari Nath Dangol (Local Coordination, Lachhi), Jaa Dangol (Local Coordination, Founder of Lachhi)
2) Creative and Production Support:
Hari Bhakta Dangol (Photo & Video work), Dipak Lama (Production Support), Sujit Maharjan and Hitesh Vaidya (Visual Artists)
3) Artistic Assistance and Volunteering:
Sussan Dangol, Samir Maharjan, Radip Maharjan, and Rojin Maharjan (Mural Art Assistants), Krishal Maharjan (Mural Art Volunteer), Aniket Singh (Volunteer)
4) Srijanalaya Support: Sharareh Bajracharya, Sushma Maharjan, and Anita Maharjan

Each of you has enriched this project with your talent, wisdom, and passion. Together, we have not only created beautiful art but also fostered a deeper connection with Khokana—a place that teaches us about resilience, community, and the enduring power of creative expression. Thank you for being part of this project..

Photo : Bhim Dangol and Jaa Dangol

~Call for Video Submissions:~
("Chisa Khanakadegu Soniga / छीसँ खंकादिगु स्वनिग:")
Lachhi Learning Centre invites you to share your experiences and memories through a short video for our initiative, "Chisa Khanakadegu Soniga / छीसँ खंकादिगु स्वनिग:"—a journey into the past, reflecting on the architecture, lifestyle, environment, and cultural heritage of earlier days at Kathmandu Valley.

What to Share in Your Video?
•How was it when you were young?
Describe the architecture, lifestyle, environment, and cultural heritage of your time.

•How has it changed today?
Share your thoughts on the transformations you've witnessed.

•What do you miss the most?
Highlight the things that have faded with time.

•What should today’s youth learn from those days?
Pass on valuable knowledge and wisdom to the younger generation.

Video Guidelines:
•Duration: Less than 5 minute
•Content: Should cover the above-mentioned aspects
•Tone: Informative and engaging
•All other terms, conditions, rules, and criteria apply

Why Participate?
This is an opportunity to tell your story, preserve our collective history, and contribute to documenting the rich oral heritage of our elders. Your memories and experiences will serve as valuable lessons for future generations .This program is proudly organized by Lachhi Learning Centre, dedicated to archiving and sharing the lived experiences of our community elders.

Be a part of this meaningful initiative!
Share your voice, tell your story, and help us keep our heritage alive.

For Registration and Submit the Video
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScMDz1nbc9XFz7YX7FdXkHqlWvxgJ4BewKHOo2mOegoEluaiw/viewform?usp=sharing

Photo By : Wolfgang Korn

~Jhi Khangu Khona:- जिं खनागु खोना~
(A Reflection Khokana Culture from America - By Kabina Maharjan Singh)
Kabina Maharjan Singh, a dedicated cultural ambassador, shares her heartfelt memories of growing up in Khokana and the nostalgia she feels from afar. Now living in the United States for the past 14 years, she remains deeply connected to her roots, promoting Newa and Nepali culture through various dance performances and cultural initiatives.
Recently, she was inspired by the discussion series "Jhisa Khangu Khona" organized by Lachhi Learning Centre. The conversations rekindled childhood memories and encouraged her to reflect on the traditions she cherished in her early years at Khokana. In response, she shares her experiences and insights about "Jhi Khangu Khona" from an American perspective.

In a heartfelt video, Kabina reminisces about Kha: Pykhana, Khyali Pykhana, and Cultural programs of Khokana—traditions that shaped her identity. She vividly recalls how these events brought the community together, creating a strong sense of belonging and cultural pride. While she deeply misses those moments, she continues to preserve and promote these traditions in the Nepali diaspora.

About Kabina Maharjan Singh
Kabina is a Cultural Ambassador of Friends of Nepal New Jersey and an Honorary Member of Newa Guthi New York. She is the Past President of Women’s for Cause and was honored with the U.S. Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021. Currently, she works as a pharmacy technician and an employee of Old Bridge Township, New Jersey.

Since 2010, she has passionately dedicated herself to promoting Newa and Nepali culture through traditional dance and cultural advocacy in the U.S. Though far from home, her heart remains in Khokana, and through her efforts, she keeps its heritage alive across borders.

Jhi Khangu Khona: A Reflection from America By Kabina Singh Dangol Kabina Maharjan Singh, a dedicated cultural ambassador, shares her heartfelt memories of growing up in Khokana and the nostalgia she feels from afar. Now liv...