Kathmandu, Dec 14: Bagmati Province Minister for Youth and Sports Urmila Nepal has emphasized the need to preserve and promote Nepal’s traditional sports, stating that they are an integral part of the nation’s identity.
Speaking at the inauguration of a training and coaching program organized today in Kathmandu by Kathmandu Zhenji Traditional Archery Organization, Minister Nepal said that archery is a traditional Nepali discipline rooted in the ancient practice of Dhanurvidya (the art of the bow and arrow).
She added that Nepal’s other traditional sports also have the potential to give the country global recognition, and therefore must be protected and promoted.
Noting that the event featured joint performances by Nepali and Chinese athletes, Minister Nepal said such joint training and presentation programs contribute to strengthening the centuries-old relationship between Nepal and China through sports diplomacy.
At the program, Master Kang, Chief Coach of the Kunming Zhenji Archery Club, shared that Zhenji archery has been promoted in primary schools of China’s Yunnan Province through formal curricula. He also highlighted that the club regularly organizes various international competitions to promote the sport.
Expressing optimism, he said that the development of archery would further enhance Nepal–China relations and reaffirmed his commitment to cooperate with Nepal in promoting archery in the coming days.
Chairperson of the Kathmandu Zhenji Traditional Archery Organization Abhishek Bikram Shah stated that Zhenji is a developed form of Nepal’s traditional Dhanurvidya. He added that the growth and expansion of this sport would help further strengthen relations between the two countries.
Similarly, President of Martial Arts Organization Nepal Rajiv Maharjan stressed that Nepal must preserve and promote its traditional sports to build a strong international identity through sports. He also urged the Government of Nepal to increase investment in the sports sector.
The event also featured demonstrations by traditional archery players from Sankhuwasabha, as well as archery and Wushu athletes from both Nepal and China, showcasing their skills and performances.
