KATHMANDU: The 38th edition of the MediaTalk series organized by St. Xavier’s College, Kathmandu, urged youth to reconnect with Nepal’s intangible cultural heritage, emphasizing its role in resilience, identity, and national pride.

Addressing the event, Dr. Monalisa Maharjan, an expert in intangible heritage, highlighted how traditions such as the Rato Machindranath Jatra continued even during the 2015 earthquake. “We live our heritage — it sustains us even through disasters,” she said, emphasizing the need to preserve and nurture traditional knowledge.

Renowned sarangi maestro and Kutumba band member Kiran Nepali shared his experience of choosing the sarangi over more mainstream instruments. “Returning to my roots gave me a distinct voice. Our heritage is what sets us apart,” he remarked, encouraging youth to value indigenous art forms.

Special guest actress Surakshya Panta underlined the importance of cinema in preserving cultural narratives, while Principal Fr. Dr. Augustine Thomas, S.J., noted that deeper understanding of living traditions fosters stronger national identity.

The program also honored the Santhal community through a performance of the Santhali dance, showcasing the deep connection between culture, nature, and communal life.

Faculty Coordinator Chun Bahadur Gurung stressed that while cultural evolution is inevitable, it is crucial for the new generation to recognize, reflect on, and respect the values embodied by Nepal’s intangible heritage.

The MediaTalk series, led by the Faculty of Journalism, aims to foster awareness among students and encourage active participation in the preservation of local traditions.