Masks - The symbols that better represents the culture and traditions of Nepal.

Nepalese and Tibetan Masks represent the culture and traditions of people living in Himalayan. The ritual of wearing masks is very old. It comes from Himalayan tribes that used to worship spirits.

The shamans of these tribes used to wear masks during rituals. These rituals were performed in order to protect the village, heal diseases, practice exorcisms. Nowadays, they are also used during theatrical representations and ceremonies dedicated to ancestors. Tibetan and Nepalese Masks depict numerous Buddhist and Hindu deities.

Traditional masks are made from materials like wood, brass, copper, bronze, paper and clay. These masks depict gods and goddesses, demons, animals, birds and mythical creatures. For gods and goddesses, these masks represent mostly Shiva, Bhairav, Ganesh, Durga while for animals its elephants, lions and tigers.

The masks that are used only for religious ceremonial purposes are built by selected few people having great skill and following strict rituals and rites. No Mistakes can be made on these specials masks.it is believed that any mistakes will provoke the deity’s anger and disaster will fall upon the community. Communities such as Newar, Buddhist, Rai, Gurung, Magar, Lama and Tharu use these specials masks for festivals celebration and for performing religious rituals and dances or performances

The Masks can be placed on external or interior walls, above or beside doors and windows, to invoke the aid of popular Hindu and Buddhist deities.