HANACS in Cooperation with UNESCO Advances Efforts to Promote Nepali Culture in Ireland

Dublin, Ireland – The Himalayan and Nepal Arts and Culture Society (HANACS) continues its mission of promoting Nepali culture in Ireland, further strengthening the cultural ties between the two nations. In a recent event, HANACS board member Mr. Deepak Tamrakar represented Nepal at Dublin’s annual India Independence Day cultural programme held in Merrion Square Park. His traditional Nepali dance performance to the iconic song “Ma hu Nepali Babu” was met with widespread acclaim, highlighting the growing appreciation of Nepali culture within Ireland’s multicultural landscape.

Guided by the leadership of Mr. Alan Mercel-Sanca, HANACS has effectively facilitated a partnership between UNESCO Nepal and UNESCO Ireland. This collaboration is anticipated to significantly boost cultural, educational, and scientific exchanges between the two nations. “This noteworthy accomplishment is expected to fortify the relationship between Nepal and Ireland, opening up new avenues for cooperation in safeguarding cultural heritage and encouraging intercultural dialogue,” remarked Alan.

This cultural showcase is part of a broader effort by HANACS to align with UNESCO’s objectives of fostering intercultural dialogue and preserving intangible cultural heritage. The society’s ongoing collaboration with UNESCO Nepal and UNESCO Ireland, as highlighted in recent developments, underscores its commitment to these values.

The event, organised by the Federation of Indian Communities in Ireland (FICI), also recognised Mr. Bal Krishna Shrestha, leader of the Nepal Ireland Society, for his significant contributions to the South Asian community in Ireland. This acknowledgment reinforces the vital role of cultural diplomacy in building stronger international relations, a theme central to the UNESCO framework.

Looking ahead, HANACS is planning a pan-South Asian community Tihar/Diwali/Festival of Lights celebration in Dublin. This initiative, which has garnered support from the Deputy Lord Mayor of Dublin, aims to bring together Ireland’s diverse communities. By promoting mutual understanding through cultural exchange, this festival is expected to enhance integration opportunities for Nepali, Indian, and other South Asian communities in Ireland, in line with UNESCO’s goals of cultural integration and education.

These initiatives, driven by HANACS and its dedicated members, not only showcase Nepali culture but also contribute to the broader UNESCO objectives of cultural preservation and intercultural dialogue, further solidifying the ties between Nepal and Ireland.

For more information, visit https://hanacs.org/