Historic “Gidde Press” Returns to Gorkhapatra: A National Heritage Saved
Gidde Press Restoration
23rd November 2025, Kathmandu
The Gidde Press Restoration project has hit a major milestone.
Gidde Press Restoration
Nepal’s first and most historic printing machine, once used to print the national daily Gorkhapatra nearly 125 years ago, has officially returned home.
This invaluable piece of national heritage from Nepal was transferred back to the Gorkhapatra Corporation. The handover marks a significant effort to preserve and display this foundational element of Nepali journalism and technology.
A Piece of History Comes Home
The historic “Gidde Press” machine had been housed at the National Museum in Chhauni for several decades. It was officially handed over to the Gorkhapatra Corporation. National Museum Chief Arun Nakarmi formally presented the machine to Deputy Executive Editor Ramprasad Humagain.
The press will now be displayed inside the corporation’s building. This is the same location where the machine originally operated. The press was moved to the museum on Ashoj 1, 2036 BS, for better preservation. Now, it returns to a place that truly reflects its historical significance.
Challenges in Preservation and Restoration
The transfer decision came after a museum inspection team raised serious concerns. The team reported major challenges in conserving the antique machine. These issues included limited storage space at the museum and a lack of skilled technicians capable of handling such an ancient artifact.
Furthermore, the machine’s various parts were found to be scattered. Some components were reportedly left outdoors, exposed to the elements.
Others were stored separately. There are even strong indications that additional, crucial components of the Gidde Press may still be buried within the old premises of the Gorkhapatra building. This discovery highlights the need for a thorough and careful excavation.
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The Restoration Effort
The Gidde Press Restoration is a complex and highly specialized task. Fortunately, a collaborative effort is mobilizing to save this monument.
Engineering Students Volunteer: Mechanical engineering students from Thapathali Campus have stepped forward. They have enthusiastically volunteered their time and expertise to assist in the restoration and reassembly of the antique press.
Innovation Center Discussions: The Gorkhapatra Corporation is also holding discussions with the National Innovation Center. These talks aim to secure technical support and potentially advanced resources needed for the delicate restoration process.
The goal is to not just display a static machine, but to bring it back as close to its original, functional state as possible, showcasing the national heritage of printing technology in Nepal.
The Press’s Royal Origins
The origin story of the Gidde Press is as fascinating as its return. The press was originally brought to Nepal by Prime Minister Jung Bahadur Rana. He secured the machine in 1908 BS following his historic visit to Britain.
It was later placed at Gorkhapatra, where it became instrumental in the nation’s early printing endeavors. Its operation marked a crucial step in the development of official communication and journalism. This machine laid the groundwork for the modern media landscape in Gorkhapatra and the country.
The successful return and planned Gidde Press Restoration ensures that future generations can witness this tangible link to Nepal’s past.
For more: Gidde Press Restoration
