History of Museum

The Tharu Cultural Museum was established on Magh 13, 2075 B.S. (January 27, 2019) in Chakhaura, Dang, Nepal. It was founded by Dilli Bahadur Chaudhary — activist, community organizer, and Founder President of BASE (Backward Society Education) — with the mission to preserve and share the unique heritage of the Tharu people.

The museum grew out of decades of grassroots work to protect Tharu identity, language, and traditions. After the historic abolition of the Kamaiya bonded labor system in 2000, the need to document and celebrate Tharu culture became even more urgent. The museum stands today as a living archive — housing over 300 cultural objects including traditional tools, jewelry, musical instruments, costumes, and ritual items