Thakur Prasad Mainali

Thakur Prasad Mainali is a pioneering Nepali artist and sculptor known as the "Father of Modern Sculpture in Nepal".
Early Life and Education
Born in 1934 in Walting, Kavre, to Ram Prasad Mainali and Indra Maya Mainali
Studied sculpture under Sankho Chaudhuri at Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, India
First Nepali to earn a university degree in sculpture from India
Professional Achievements
Helped found Nepal Association of Fine Arts (NAFA) in 1965
Served as NAFA's secretary from 1965-1967 and 1970-1977
Vice-Chancellor of Nepal Academy of Fine Arts from 2010-2014
Artistic Contributions
Created Nepal's first contemporary monumental sculpture at Bhrikuti Mandap (35-foot tall cement and concrete monument)
Produced numerous bronze sculptures acquired by international collectors
Known for introducing modern sculptural techniques and themes in Nepal
Additional Talents
Published poet with works including "Flames of Devotion"
Authored books on art, including "Contemporary Art and Artists of Nepal"
Awards and Honors
2022: Lifetime Sculpture Achievement Award
Multiple national honors including Birendra Aishwarya Sewa Padak (2001)
Royal Nepal Academy Fellow (1977-79)
Mainali is celebrated as a transformative figure who modernized Nepali sculpture and art in the mid-20th century.