On March 3rd, Niyesh Mahat from Jaankaari held a phone interview with Keshab Sunar, owner of RK Metal Handicrafts Productions and Suppliers, located at Thaha Municipality-4, Makawanpur.
Keshab Sunar established RK Metal Handicrafts in the year 2075 BS (2018 AD). After dedicating several years to working abroad, he returned to Nepal determined to establish his own business. From 2018 to date, Keshab has successfully managed his thriving business with a motive of capturing Nepal’s cultural heritage through his metalwork craftsmanship.
How did you start your journey in the metal industry?
Just after returning from working abroad, I had no specific skill that I could rely on, and I was clueless about my future professional direction. Meanwhile, my brother, Ramkumar Sunar, had already established himself in the metal handicraft industry with nearly a decade of valuable experience and expertise. Then I decided to train alongside my brother, simultaneously assisting and supporting him with ongoing projects while learning the technique of metal handicraft creation.
During this mentorship period, I transferred the traditional skill of crafting into a business opportunity for myself. Fast forward to today, seven years have passed since I launched my career on this entrepreneurial journey.
Tell us a little about the process of making metal handicrafts. What are metal handicrafts? How do you see the market for metal handicrafts?
Metal handicrafts are the art of making artistic and useful objects through various processes such as cutting, molding, engraving, polishing, etc. This process is completely based on skill, where a design is prepared and then you work manually on the metal. We mainly use metals such as copper, brass, etc.
Currently, the market for metal handicrafts is positive in Nepal and abroad. The demand for products such as love symbols, government and institutional gift items, tokens of love, decorative items, badges, key rings, monograms, Nepali souvenirs, etc., is increasing. They are popular among individuals, organizations, tourists, and programs within Nepal.
How has this market been since you started?
My learning journey has been entirely based on practical experience. I learned everything while working alongside my brother. The skills, knowledge, and training I’ve gained have all come from him.
After spending time with my younger brother, I was able to create metal products of new designs in accordance with the market demand. I used to craft unique designs on metal, which made my products stand out from the market. From the time I started to date, the metal market has been positively growing.
Have you registered your business? If so, what was your motivation?
I have registered my business as ‘RK Metal Handicrafts Production and Suppliers’. The main idea behind registering a business is to legally establish my products and market them reliably.
This makes it easier to collaborate with government agencies and private organizations. In addition, since business registration is mandatory in cases where loans, grants, or concessions are required from banks and financial institutions, it is also registered with the aim of making it easier to expand in the future. This also makes the business credible in the eyes of customers.
How far has your market expanded?
Currently, our market is mainly spread to the Kathmandu Valley and major cities of the country. In addition, some items are also ordered by Nepalis living abroad. We also take orders through social media (such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok) and email/phone.
What is your most popular and frequently ordered item?
The most popular and highly ordered items are the Cross Khukuri Badge, Nepali Flag Stand, Token of Love, Name Plate, Medal Badge, Key Ring, Nepali Souvenir Gifts, etc. These items are widely used in organizations, government and non-government programs, schools, and special events.
What is your average monthly revenue like?
If the business runs well, I earn about 80-90 thousand rupees per month. However, my income fluctuates depending on the volume of orders and market conditions. I earn healthy revenue when I receive large orders, but at times it is affected when sales are low.
Overall, my annual turnover is 2.5-3 million rupees. As the demand for Nepali handicrafts is increasing, there is a possibility of better income in the future.
