HistoryFirst Workshop

HistoryFirst is a series of workshops comprising intensive trainings on robust historical methods applied to Nepali source materials. Each workshop has been designed to impart key skills required for a sound analysis of primary sources in history through critical, collective and interactive sessions. These skills include techniques ranging from finding various sources in their in-situ locations, reproducing them for recording, conservation, and dissemination, reading them for textual and non-textual criticisms, and understanding their significance in historiography. The workshops are useful mainly to those interested in engaging with debates of enduring significance in Nepali history through ancient inscriptions, medieval legal deeds and ritual books, modern state records, and contemporary oral sources.

The workshops are also helpful to anyone curious about how historical narratives in Nepal are established, (re)produced, and sometimes, deconstructed. No prior linguistic or technological competence or familiarity with Nepali historiography is necessary to attend the workshops. However, you need to demonstrate your longstanding interest in issues related to Nepali history and your commitment to resolve those issues through sustained and critical engagement with historical sources. You are also expected to produce an essay in long format, a folder of photographs, or a short film on areas of your interest within three months of the completion of the workshop.