Kathmandu, Nepal — Due to overwhelming public response, MUSTANG Nostalgia: A Two-Decade Odyssey, the panoramic photo exhibition by renowned lens-based artist Kishor Kayastha, will now run until January 19, 2025, at the Nepal Art Council, Babar Mahal.

Originally scheduled to conclude on January 14, the extension will allow more visitors, including those returning from the holiday season, to immerse themselves in the extraordinary visuals of Mustang’s landscapes, culture, and heritage.

The exhibition, which features 30 breathtaking panoramic photographs, has been drawing more than 800 visitors daily since its opening on January 7. The additional days will ensure greater public engagement and visibility for this unique showcase of Mustang’s beauty and its evolving story over the past two decades.

Speaking about the extension, Gautam Dhimal, Chairperson of the Gehendra Dhimal Foundation, said: “This extension reflects the immense interest and enthusiasm the exhibition has generated. By providing additional days, we hope to give more people the opportunity to connect with Mustang’s essence and engage in important conversations about conservation and cultural preservation. We’re deeply grateful for the collaboration and support that has made this possible.”

Kishor Kayastha, the artist behind the exhibition, shared his thoughts on the decision: “The public response to this exhibition has been beyond my expectations. It’s humbling to see so many people resonate with Mustang’s story through my lens. I believe this extension will inspire even more individuals to appreciate the unique spirit of Mustang and reflect on its significance, both culturally and spiritually.”

Mike Harker, Chief of Public Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu, emphasized the broader impact of the exhibition: “This exhibition not only highlights Mustang’s beauty but also reinforces the importance of cultural preservation and community partnerships. The extension offers an opportunity for even more people to witness how initiatives like this can foster meaningful connections and promote awareness.”

The exhibition will remain open daily from 11 AM to 4 PM at the Nepal Art Council. Private viewings by invitation will continue to be held in the evenings. For further updates, visit www.dhimal.org or contact: Gehendra Dhimal [email protected]

Kishor Kayasta leads Gagan Pradhan, the Founder of Himalayan Java, on an insightful
tour of the exhibition, sharing the stories behind the artworks.

Kishor Kayastha engages in a conversation with Ranjit Acharya, CEO and Creative Head
of Prisma Advertising.

Cultural Attaché Erica Alexander of the U.S. Embassy in Nepal takes a closer look at one
of the artworks, reflecting on its intricate details and cultural significance.

Anudhan Jung Rana, an entrepreneur, carefully examines the exhibition, absorbing the
visual narratives presented.

From left to right: Sarosh Pradhan, Mike Harker (Public Affairs Chief of the U.S.
Embassy in Nepal), Kishor Kayastha, and Deputy Chief of Mission of the U.S. Embassy
in Nepal, Jason P. Meeks pose for a photo in front of one of the striking artworks.

Kishor Kayastha and his wife, artist Meena Kayastha, share a moment with Public
Affairs Chief Mike Harker.

The AFCP room, dedicated to the Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation, offers
visitors an immersive experience into Nepal’s rich cultural heritage.

His Excellency, Ambassador of Germany, Dr. Thomas Prinz and Royal of Mustang Mr.
Jigme Wangchuk at the opening of Mustang: Nostalgia – A Two-Decade Odyssey’ by
Kishor Kayastha, curated and organized by the Gehendra Dhimal Foundation in
partnership with the U.S. Embassy in Nepal.

Bhusan Dahal, Kishor Kayastha, and Gautam Dhimal pose in front of one of the
captivating artworks, symbolizing the collaboration and dedication behind the exhibition.

Cultural Attaché Erica Alexander of the U.S. Embassy in Nepal writes her feedback,
capturing her reflections on the artistic expressions showcased in the exhibition.

An evening view of the Nepal Art Council on inauguration day of , illuminated to
highlight the grandeur of Mustang: Nostalgia – A Two-Decade Odyssey’ by Kishor
Kayastha, curated and organized by the Gehendra Dhimal Foundation in partnership with
the U.S. Embassy in Nepal.

A guest takes a picture of one of the artworks, preserving the memory of this unique
artistic experience.

From left to right: Gautam Dhimal, Manisha Koirala, Kishor Kayastha, and Sarosh
Pradhan gather to admire the artwork.

Photographer Om Prakash Yadav and U.S. Embassy representative Sunny Thapa admire
the artwork, engaging with its rich visual storytelling.

Visitors take their time to admire the artwork, delving into the depth and detail of each
piece.

A visitor reads the description of an artwork in the Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural
Preservation (AFCP room), deepening their understanding of the cultural and historical
context.

Visitor admiring the artwork in the Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP
room)

Photographer Rabindra Man Tamrakar fills out the form for the title challenge,
contributing his perspective to the exhibition’s interactive element.

Dhurba Shah from the U.S. embassy in Kathmandu is guided by Kishor Kayasta and
Gautam Dhimal

Visitors engage with the exhibition, exploring the diverse range of artworks on display.

Visitors engage with the exhibition, exploring the diverse range of artworks on display.

Visitors engage with the exhibition, exploring the diverse range of artworks on display.

Visitors register upon arrival, eagerly anticipating their journey through the artistic and
cultural narratives presented.

European Union Ambassador Veronique Lorenzo joins Kishor Kayastha, Gautam
Dhimal, and photographer Om Prakash Yadav, reflecting on the significance of the
artworks.

Om Prakash Yadav, Gautam Dhimal, European Union Ambassador Veronique Lorenzo ,
and Kishor Kayastha admire one of the art works.

1-9 : Photos by Manish Amatya
9-25: Photos by Sharad Shrestha