Reconstructing Dharahara and leaving it as it is are two major issues on the discussion. Even though some logic behind leaving it as it is, sounds sensible, it is very important to have a landmark structure like Dharahara. It is not all about rebuilding, it is about responding; the importance of that particular site, and our emotional connection to it.

Personally, I believe in design philosophy, every structure has some language, it stands for some meanings. After this catastrophe, new dimensions in the design have been added. So, reconstructing Dharahara with the meaning behind leaving it as it is could be a unique start. I wouldn’t have asked anything from this life if I was asked to design for it……..
The main purpose of the Dharahara was to assemble people at Tudikhel for the announcement. And afterward, it was left just as a monument for years, and in modern days it was converted into commercial view tower. I wonder!! how it was allowed as a public view tower? In terms of the national economy and public entertainment, it may makes sense to have access to the public. But the tower was not designed for that  purpose. And it may not have a sufficient amount of structural strength to hold numbers of people at a time. And every day huge public flow, no way. People are also a load for the structure, which should be considered. But happened so happened, these structural points should be taken under account, if authority is going to reconstruct it.
To me, Dharahara! It was not just the view tower. Its presence had defined that space and it has historical connection. Beyond the construction, Material, and design, it had acquired its Architectural values and, it was remarkable.

I believe it was in a neoclassical or Mughal pattern, which was adopted, and different from our traditional style. But it had merged its identity in our tradition. It was the merger and above this, it has a vigorous role in Nepalese Architecture. So, it was unique. It was not just the tallest structure, from an architectural perspective, it was the guardian of the Kathmandu valley. It had given meanings to the sight and had a strong visual impact. It was my pride and I have a very deep architectural connection with it.

Whenever I will look at the valley, my eyes will miss its visual charm, my brain will stay bewildered, and my heart!!……..I hope it will handle the feeling of emptiness. Its materials have turned into debris, which is irreparable but its essence, still blooming. It has life and is respiring through its vivid image.

So, it doesn’t matter whether it is reconstructed or left as it is, it cannot be erased from the history and Nepalese hearts. But now with this pride, some unexplainable pains have been connected, which is also not easy to erase. And it shouldn’t be erased either, it should be expressed, it should be shared; Architecturally. So Dharahara should stand again as no monument has stood before, it should stand again to face another earthquake ………it should stand for our pride, for our hope, it shouldn’t be weaker than this disaster…..
I have faith in the knowledge and skill of my generation. Prayers for all suffered and all who had lost their lives.