Chandraman Kapali, a skilled wood carving artist, hails from the small village of Bungmati in Lalitpur. Bungmati is a place deeply embedded with the tradition of wood carving, and it is here that Chandraman’s journey began.
Starting at the tender age of six, Chandraman immersed himself in the art of wood carving, learning from the skilled hands of his community. By the age of eleven, he was already creating complex and intricate wood carvings, showcasing a natural talent that set him apart.
Despite his early success, Chandraman faced numerous challenges in his career. Like many others in his village, he initially thought he would have to leave his homeland and work in the Gulf countries to make a living. However, he soon realized that his talent was a unique gift from God, and he decided to embrace it wholeheartedly.
About twenty years ago, Chandraman with his family moved to Pokhara, seeking new opportunities. His exceptional skills quickly earned him a reputation as a master wood carver. His journey took him to Mustang, where he worked for two years, honing his craft further. There he made carvings of wooden pillars, windows, wooden water jars, etc.
Upon his return to Pokhara, Chandraman opened his own shop, allowing him to showcase his artistry and attract a wider business. In his shop, he sells a variety of wooden structures, including frames, pillars, windows, idols, small water jars, pagoda-style architecture and more. His dedication and hard work paid off, enabling him to build his own house in Pokhara and settle there with his beautiful family.