Top 10 Notable Newars People: Well-Known Individuals

The Newar community is an indigenous ethnic group from the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal. They have a rich culture, history, and traditions that have been celebrated for centuries. The Newars have produced many notable individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields, including entertainment, arts, literature, and politics. Here are ten popular celebrities and notable people from the Newar community:

• Madan Krishna Shrestha: A legendary comedian, actor, and playwright known for his role in the popular Nepali comedy duo “Maha Jodi”.
• Haribansha Acharya: Another half of the “Maha Jodi” pair, Haribansha Acharya is an accomplished comedian, actor, and writer.
• Nilambar Acharya: A prominent politician and diplomat who served as Nepal’s ambassador to India and the United Nations. He also played a crucial role in drafting Nepal’s new constitution in 2015.
• Dhananjaya Paudel: A celebrated film director known for his critically acclaimed movies like “Chhakka Panja” and “Dreams”.
• Rajesh Hamal: A hugely popular Nepali actor known as the “Maha Nayak” of Nepali cinema for his numerous successful movies.
• Manisha Koirala: A renowned Bollywood and Nepali film actress who has worked in various critically acclaimed movies like “Dil Se” and “1942: A Love Story”.
• Prabal Gurung: A well-known fashion designer based in New York City who has dressed many A-list celebrities and received international acclaim for his collections.
• Yasodhara Lama: A talented contemporary artist who explores themes of identity, culture, and women’s issues through her thought-provoking art.
• Saugat Malla: An accomplished actor known for his roles in hit Nepali movies like “Kabaddi” and “Loot”. He has been instrumental in changing the landscape of Nepali cinema.
• Sarala Thapa: A renowned folk singer and musician famous for her melodious voice and contribution to preserving Newari folk music.

Newars’s Three Pinnacle Historical Inheritances

The Newars are an ethnic community native to the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal. With a rich history dating back centuries, they have preserved their unique culture and traditions over generations. Known for their craftsmanship, architecture, and religious practices, the Newars have left an indelible mark on the cultural heritage of Nepal. Here, we explore three of the most well-known historical inheritances associated with the Newars.

1. Architecture: The Newars are renowned for their exquisite architectural craftsmanship. The traditional Newar style of architecture is characterized by its intricacy and attention to detail. One of the most iconic examples of Newar architecture is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kathmandu Durbar Square. This square houses numerous temples, palaces, and courtyards, truly displaying the brilliance of Newar craftsmanship. The intricate wood carvings, pagoda-style rooftops, and beautifully carved stone sculptures are a testament to the Newars’ architectural prowess.

2. Festivals: The Newars celebrate a wide range of colorful and vibrant festivals throughout the year. One of the most famous festivals is the Jatra of Biska: the Nepali New Year. During this festival, a wooden pole known as the Yae or Linga is erected, and a chariot carrying the idols of deities is pulled through the streets. The festivities include music, dance, processions, and religious rituals. Another notable festival is the Bajrayogini Jatra, which celebrates the goddess Vajravarahi. The Newars’ dedication to preserving and commemorating their religious traditions is evident in the grandeur and uniqueness of these festivals.

3. Crafts: The Newars have a long-standing reputation for their exceptional craftsmanship. Traditional crafts such as metalwork, pottery, woodwork, and stone carving have been handed down through generations. The mastery of Newar craftsmen can be seen in the intricately designed metal utensils, statues, and jewelry. The skillful production of clay pots and sculptures is another art form that the Newars excel in. The Newari craftwork is not only esteemed within Nepal but has gained recognition internationally as well.

• The Newars’ architectural brilliance can be witnessed in the intricately designed temples and palaces of Kathmandu Durbar Square.
• Various festivals celebrated by the Newars, such as the Jatra of Biska and Bajrayogini Jatra, showcase their dedication to preserving religious traditions.
• The exceptional craftsmanship of the Newars can be seen in their metalwork, pottery, woodwork, and stone carving.

Through their architectural marvels, vibrant festivals, and meticulous crafts, the Newars have left an indelible mark on the cultural heritage of Nepal. Their rich historical inheritances continue to inspire and captivate people from around the world. The Newars proudly keep their traditions alive, ensuring that their cultural legacy will endure for generations to come.

Factsheet About Newars People

References to the Newars Ethnic Group

The Newars are an ethnic group native to the Kathmandu Valley and surrounding areas in Nepal. They have a rich cultural heritage and are known for their unique language, traditions, and architecture. If you are interested in learning more about the Newar ethnic group, here are some references and resources that can help you dig deeper:

• The Newars by Mary Shepherd Slusser – This book provides a comprehensive overview of the Newar people, their history, culture, and architecture. It explores their religious beliefs, social structure, festivals, and more.
• Newar Society: City, Village, and Periphery edited by Axel Michaels – This collection of essays offers a deeper understanding of the Newar society, its urban and rural dynamics, caste system, and economic life.
• Newa: A Cultural Ethnographic Documentary directed by Prawin Takki Tamrakar – This documentary film provides an insightful look into the Newar culture, traditions, and rituals. It showcases their unique festivals, music, dance, and art forms.

In addition to these references, there are several online resources that can help you explore the Newar community:

• Newa.org – This website is dedicated to promoting and preserving Newar culture, language, and heritage. It provides information on festivals, rituals, music, and dance, along with resources for language learning.
• Nepal Newa Guthi – This non-profit organization focuses on the preservation and promotion of Newar culture. Their website provides insights into Newar history, festivals, cuisine, and architecture.
• World Newa – This online platform aims to connect Newars living around the world. It features articles, videos, and interviews on Newar culture, literature, and community initiatives.

By exploring these references and resources, you can gain a deeper understanding of the Newar ethnic group, their cultural practices, and their contributions to Nepali society.

Explore other famous people with Aymara, Gurma and Khas roots, showcasing the diversity of ethnic backgrounds. Investigating influential individuals with diverse ethnic backgrounds tied to these Newars origins unveils the interwoven tapestry of global cultures and their impactful contributions to the world.

We have reached the end of our exploration into the extraordinary lives of prominent Newars. We hope this journey has been enlightening and inspiring.