Nepal’s faith is finding a new interface

Religious knowledge in Nepal, traditionally passed down through priests and scriptures, is increasingly finding a new interface through smartphones. A growing number of Nepali developers are creating apps and devices that offer rituals, mantras, astrology, and religious texts on demand, aiming to integrate centuries-old traditions into modern life.

One such venture, Brihat Karmakanda, started by Sanskrit students Nabin Khatiwada and Yubaraj Dhungel, has evolved from a simple digital Hindu ritual book to an app with over 50,000 downloads and 37,000 monthly active users. The app now provides digital religious texts and horoscope readings, with a recently launched paid horoscope service attracting nearly 500 subscribers within days. Annual memberships range from Rs299 to Rs2,999 for a 50-year plan. Khatiwada, who taught himself coding to overcome technical hurdles, plans to integrate artificial intelligence into the platform.

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We started by digitising a book. Then we realised there was much more we could do.

This trend extends to hardware, with companies like Yarsa Labs in Pokhara developing battery-powered "chanting boxes" that play mantras for set periods. Founder NJ Subedi noted the device's development was inspired by the common practice of playing devotional music during morning and evening prayers. Designed with traditional motifs, these devices transform familiar ritual accompaniments into consumer products.

Technology is also making inroads into Nepal's religious heritage sites. The Buddha Gram Robotic Live Museum in Lumbini features robotic and animatronic figures that recreate episodes from the Buddha's life, showcasing a different application of technology in preserving and presenting religious narratives.

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We have not actively marketed the technology, but we make it when there is demand.