Terracotta Chiva Salvaged from Plants growing from inside
Chiva although being of historical, archeological, social, economical and religious importance to the nation as well as local community, they threatened both from human made causes and natural causes. One of major natural causes being plants growing from inside, specially a plant called 'Ficus Religiosa', if not taken out at early stages will grow with lots of roots and completely destroy monuments. Local community worshiping the Chiva after restoration A Chiva at Dhalko in Kathmandu was in very sorry condition due to plants growing from within, completely deforming the Chiva. The uniqueness of the Chiva is also happen to be few Chivas made of terracotta, otherwise most Chiva are from stone. The challenge was to salvage all the possible bricks and terracotta decorative parts. Traditional lime mortar was used to restore the Chiva. Local indigenous mason and stone carver were used to give the authentic restoration. With the help of local community specially NaniShova Tata, Ward