A Journey Through Time: Hari Prasad Sharma Revives Nepal’s Glorious Past on Canvas

Photo: Oree Prasain / TDN

Kathmandu, 2 June 2025: Artist Hari Prasad Sharma’s solo exhibition “Nepal Down the Ages: Glimpse of Nepali History, Culture and Lifestyles in Painting” is nothing short of remarkable. The paintings spring to life, they are not just beautiful works of art but glimpses into Nepal’s past.

The series has over 60 paintings, representing major moments in history like Buddha leaving his palace in search of enlightenment, Emperor Ashoka placing the Ashoka Pillar at Lumbini, King Amshuvarma’s resplendent Kailashkut Bhawan, and Araniko’s mythical journey to China. Among the most powerful works is a painting of Prithivi Narayan Shah’s victory over Kathmandu on Indra Jatra day that combines festival and history in a single energetic portrait.

What stands out about 82-year-old Sharma is his incredible attention to detail. You see it in the garments, in the architecture, and even in tiny background details such as buffalo carts, decorated hand mirrors, and the tiny writing on Buddhist texts. His son, Bishnu Prasad Sharma, has been assisting him too, helping with research and bringing such historical scenes to life. Actually, this is Sharma’s first major show since 1973, so this is even more special.

Each layer on each painting has been researched and conceptualized, so the whole show is informative as well as lovely. This exhibition is not just for people who love painting, it’s for anyone who wants to experience the rich cultural heritage and history of Nepal.