Khadka gives life to dead tree roots through his artworks

By Rammani Dahal,Dolakha, Dec. 22: Sujan Khadka, a resident of Bhimeshwor Municipality in Dolakha district, has undergone a remarkable transformation as a tree root artist amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite the chaos of COVID-19, Khadka seized the opportunity to showcase his artistic talents.

Skillfully carving intricate shapes into discarded tree roots, he has created 40 distinct figures.

Khadka’s artworks delve into the relationship between humanity and nature, the inherent nature of Buddha, and the duality of demonic nature.

He has crafted tree root sculptures depicting Kathmandu Metropolitan City Mayor Balen Shah and Dharan Sub-Metropolitan City Mayor Harka Sampang, drawing inspiration from their election campaigns and activities. 

Khadka intends to gift these sculptures to the Mayors Shah and Sampang. 

Beyond tree roots, Khadka has extended his artistic vision to herbs, revealing shapes noticeable only to the keen eye of an artist. 

His repertoire includes depictions of Mansarobar, the Kalpa tree, snakes, and more, showcasing the diversity of his creative expressions.

Khadka has established a Tree Root Handicraft Industry to transform his passion into a sustainable business. 

Despite initially being a hobbyist painter, Khadka’s creations have gained recognition and generated an income of Rs. 150,000 with the initial investment of Rs.500, 000.

Khadka aspires to cultivate and enhance tree root art into a sustainable business, anticipating the backing of the local government and favourable market conditions.

Additionally, he joyfully expressed that a company based in Kathmandu has shown keen interest in his unique tree root artworks. As a result, Khadka is delighted to see his artworks gaining recognition, bringing life to once-lifeless tree roots through his art.

Moreover, he holds a positive outlook on the market potential for his unique tree root artworks.

Khadka is doing his best to introduce this art form and explore its potential.

Emphasising the authenticity of his work, Khadka asserted that he does not engage in artificial modifications, rather, he lets the natural form of the tree roots guide his artistic expressions. 

Bishwamber Lamichhane of Sindhuli too is engaged in similar work.

Reflecting on his journey, Khadka recounts spending 11 years in Kathmandu working in money transfer services after passing the School Leaving Certificate (SLC). 

However, a desire for personal fulfilment led him to return to his roots, both figuratively and literally, as he embarked on this artistic venture.