In the heart of Nepal, the Ruby Valley Municipality holds a treasure trove of culture, tradition, and untold stories that have been preserved for generations by the Indigenous people.
During the Dashain festival, a time of togetherness, gratitude, and celebration, we had the privilege of sharing a heartfelt gesture with the people of Tipling and nearby villages—a gesture that transcends words and speaks of respect, love, and the beauty of preserving history.
A Journey of Exploration and Connection
A few years ago, our journey took us to Tipling, a serene and culturally rich village nestled in the lap of the Ruby Valley. Accompanied by a French journalist, we embarked on a mission to document the essence of this community—their customs, traditions, and way of life. Through the lens of a camera, we captured moments that told stories of resilience, joy, and unity.
These photographs became more than just images; they became a bridge connecting us to the villagers, their stories, and their way of life. The portraits featured the old monk radiating wisdom, mothers nurturing generations, and the elderly, the custodians of the community’s heritage. These were not just photographs; they were symbols of life in its most authentic form.
A Gesture of Gratitude and Respect
This Dashain, as part of our commitment to preserving and honoring the indigenous culture, we decided to return these cherished memories to their rightful owners. The villagers of Tipling received their portraits, frozen in time, as gifts of love and respect. For them, these photographs were not just pictures; they were windows to the past, reminders of cherished moments, and affirmations of their enduring cultural legacy.
The smiles, the tears of joy, and the heartfelt expressions of gratitude from the villagers reaffirmed the significance of this act. It was more than just gifting photos; it was about giving back a piece of their history, validating their identity, and showing them the respect they deserve.
Promoting Local Tourism and Cultural Preservation
The Ruby Valley is a gem of untapped tourism potential. Its breathtaking landscapes, coupled with its rich cultural heritage, make it a destination that can captivate any traveler. However, tourism here must be sustainable, rooted in respect for the traditions and lifestyles of its Indigenous people.
By sharing these photos and telling the stories behind them, we hope to draw attention to the importance of preserving the culture and traditions of Ruby Valley. Tourists are not merely visitors; they are witnesses to the legacy of the communities they encounter. Promoting such mindful tourism can uplift local livelihoods while ensuring that the cultural fabric of the region remains intact.
The Role of Indigenous Communities in Preserving Traditions
The people of Tipling, like many Indigenous communities, are the guardians of traditions that date back centuries. Their customs, rituals, and daily lives are a living museum of Nepal’s rich cultural history. However, as modernization spreads, these traditions face the risk of fading away.
Efforts like these—returning photographs, documenting stories, and encouraging cultural exchange—are crucial in ensuring that the heritage of communities like Tipling thrives. It fosters a sense of pride among the villagers and educates outsiders about the depth and beauty of their traditions.
The act of gifting photographs during Dashain is a reminder of the power of small gestures in building connections, preserving history, and promoting cultural awareness. Ruby Valley Municipality is more than just a destination; it is a living testament to Nepal’s diverse heritage.
As we continue to promote sustainable tourism in Tipling and beyond, let us remember that true travel is not just about exploring landscapes—it is about understanding the soul of a place and respecting the people who breathe life into it. The smiles of the villagers, the stories behind the photos, and the spirit of Dashain serve as a call to honor, protect, and celebrate the traditions of Ruby Valley for generations to come.
Bimal Tamang is an Indigenous journalism student from Kathmandu. He recently won first prize at the Namuncurá Indigenous Short Film Festival 2024 for his film “Holy Journey of Nature, Culture, and the Divine Power.”
