Culture And Traditions In Nepal

The culture and traditions in Nepal date back thousands of years, showcasing the ancient civilization. Mainly influenced by Hinduism and Buddhism, the culture of Nepal has been evolving over centuries. Nepal is a culturally rich country where you will mostly see the Licchavi and Malla-designed temples, palaces, and monuments that still stand. To explore the artistic and architectural aspects of Nepal, visiting Kathmandu should be prioritized.

With the passing of time, the diverse culture of Nepalese people has contributed to its cultural tapestry. Each of them has developed their customs, languages, and rituals. Festivals like Dashain and Tihar, as well as traditional music, dance, and art, are integral to Nepali identity. The history reflects a blend of spiritual beliefs, royal patronage, and ethnic diversity. This overall combination not only makes the culture of Nepal unique but also wonderful.

Unique Custom and Culture of Nepal

Apart from other countries, Nepal has its own unique culture and traditions. Each of them offers you with its own signification. They are deeply rooted in the diverse ethnic groups and history of the country. Many of them are also based on myths and superstitions like belief in ghosts, witches, and Tantriks. With people of different communities residing from Brahmin, Chettris, Newar, Sherpa, and Tharu, each culture is reflected in their dress, greeting, and daily life. 

In some cultural practices, people sacrifice animals. In some, people tie knots with wood-apple and the sun as a religious belief. Similarly, in some, the dead bodies are bided farewell and left to be eaten by crows and vultures instead of burying them. The two major festivals of Nepal, Dashain and Tihar, also possess their own unique value.

Many communities still wear traditional attire like the Daura Suruwal for men and Gunyo Cholo for women during important occasions. The traditional gesture used, Nameste, signifies respect and reverence. With multiple customs seen, they are often tied to religion. A number of unique practices in the form of rituals and traditions make Nepal rich in cultural heritage.

Over 123 languages and Literature

Although Nepali is the national language, the country is popularly known for being multilingual. Each ethnic group has its own language. With over 123 languages, some of the most spoken ones include Nepali (44.6%), Maithili (11.7%), Bhojpuri(6%), Tharu (5.8%), and Tamang (5.1%). Many of these languages belong to the Indo-Aryan and Sino-Tibetan language families. The Nepali language has actually evolved from the Sanskrit language.

Since the 19th century, poetry and religious texts have merged, and literature has a long history. They mainly deal with themes like social issues that are faced by people, patriotism, and love stories. Today, it has grown to include poetry, novels, and essays. Some of the notable Nepali literature are Laxmi Prasad Devkota, Bhanubhakta Acharya, Bal Krishna Sam, Motiram Bhatta, Parijat, and many more. However, with modernization, many indigenous languages are at risk of fading away.

Festivals And Celebrations

With many festivals celebrated throughout the year, all of them last from one to several days. They are deeply intertwined with the religion and culture of the people residing here. Two of the major festivals, Dashain and Tihar, are celebrated in the autumn season. Dashain is celebrated to honor the victory of good over evil. Similarly, Tihar, the festival of lights, symbolizes the connection between humans and nature together.

Besides that, the other festivals celebrated here are Buddha Jayanti, which marks the birth of Lord Buddha, and Holi, the festival of color. Beyond that, each of the ethnic groups also celebrates its own festivals, such as Sherpa celebrating Lhosar, Newar celebrating Indra Jatra, and more. No matter which festival you take part in, each of them brings you and your family together for celebration along with music and dances.

Ethnicity And Caste

Nepal, a melting pot of ethnicities, has over 125 distinct groups of people residing. Some of the major ethnic groups are Brahmin, Chhetris, Sherpas, Gurungs, Magars, Newars, and Tharus. Each ethnic group of people has its own customs, traditions, and language. Breaking down into three regions, most of the people residing in the Himalayas are Sherpa and Tamang. Similarly, the Hill has a major population of Magars, Gurung, Brahmis, and Chettris.

Bordering India, in the Terai region, most of the people are Tharus and Madhesis, with some number of Brahmin and Chettris. The caste system was categorized as a traditional occupation. Thus, Brahmins and Chettris were considered the highest. Although the caste system has been legally abolished in Nepal, it still plays a role in Nepalese society. Despite some differences, ethnic diversity is celebrated in Nepal. Each group comes together and lives harmoniously, contributing to the nation’s rich cultural landscape.

Religion and Beliefs

In Nepal, Hinduism and Buddhism are the religions most commonly practiced. Religion plays an essential role in people’s daily lives. With over 81% practicing Hinduism, these people worship more than 1000 gods, celebrate multiple festivals, and visit temples for rituals. Similarly, Buddhism, with 9% of the total population of Nepal, follows Lord Buddha and is mainly practiced in the Himalayan region. Also, it is very common here in Nepal to find Hindu and Buddhist temples side by side.

You can also witness traditional beliefs thriving among the people of the indigenous communities in Nepal. Animism and shamanism are practiced in some rural areas. They worship nature and ancestors, and their shamans play a significant role in healing and guiding spiritual practices. Other religions of Nepal include 4.2% Islam and 3.6% Kirant. Christianity is practiced officially by less than 1.0% of the population.

Nepali Cuisine

The traditional Nepali cuisine also reflects the country’s diverse culture. Offering you a wide variety of flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques, most of the dishes made in Nepal are heavily influenced by Tibetan, Indian, and Chinese cuisine. The staple food of Nepal is Dal-Bhat along with a variety of side dishes such as vegetables and pickles. Most of the Nepali people have this twice a day. Some spices used in this staple dish include cumin, coriander, turmeric, and ginger.

Apart from dal bhat, momo is also an equally beloved dish of Nepali people. Originating from Tibet, this dish is made with flour and meat or vegetables inside it. Flatbreads and curries are popular in Terai. The whole mountain region has its own specialties, like yak cheese and barley-based dishes. Thukpa, a noodle soup, is also popular in the Himalayan areas. Overall, Nepali cuisine offers a simple yet flavorful experience.

Art and Handicrafts

For 100 years back, Nepal has been popular for its rich art and handicrafts. You will witness some of the beautiful, intricately carved woodwork, metal sculptures, and traditional paintings. Having religious significance, the art depicts gods, goddesses, and spiritual symbols. Paubha and Thangka are some of the most famous forms of art in Nepal. The Newar community people in Kathmandu are popular for their art skills in wood and metal crafts. You can see their work in different temples and palaces. 

Similarly, Nepali handicrafts are handwoven textiles, pottery, and jewelry. They are mainly used in festivals and rituals, and some of them are also used in everyday life. The handicraft items are not just used for religious purposes but are also a popular form of souvenirs for tourists visiting Nepal. These skills are typically passed down to generations and are preserved. However, with modernization, the number of people presenting unique art is decreasing.

Indigenous People’s Primary Occupation

The indigenous peoples of Nepal, living in various parts of the country, engage in different primary occupations depending on their geographical region. People residing in mountain regions, especially Sherpa, are known for their trekking skills. They have a deep understanding of the Himalayas. Farming is the common means of occupation of Indigenous groups like the Gurungs, Magars, and Tharus in hilly and terai regions, and they grow rice, wheat, and vegetables for their livelihood.

In the Terai region, the Tharu people used to practice fishing, hunting, and farming. This indigenous group of people is also known for their experience in using natural resources. They know how to construct houses out of bamboo and how to properly use herbal medicines. In some of the remote regions of Terai, people indulge in hunting and gathering and livestock rearing.

Traditional Clothing

Different clothes signify different groups of people in Nepal. Although all ethnic groups have their own special clothes, the national dress of Nepal is Daura Suruwal for men and Gunyo Cholo for females. The Daura Suruwal consists of a knee-length shirt and trousers, often paired with a coat and topi (cap). Similarly, Gunyo Cholo is a blouse and wrap-around skirt combination. They are mainly worn during ceremonies and festivals.

Locally produced textiles such as Dhaka are used to make these garments. People residing in the mountain region, Sherpa and Tharu, wear thick, warm clothing suited for cold climates. They are made of wool. In contrast, people in the Terai region put on dresses based on the climate. They put on lighter clothes such as cotton saris and lungis. Also, all the ethnic group of Nepal has their own cultural dresses, which they prefer to wear to different highly celebrated events.

Conclusion

Overall, offering you the best and unique blend of cultural practices, Nepal is popularly known for its traditions and history. With over 125 distinct ethnic groups, each with its own customs, languages, and festivals, the cultural diversity of Nepal is truly remarkable. Visiting Nepal, you can experience different cultures and groups of people.

If you opt for trekking, you can learn about Sherpa and Tamang people while also understanding other groups such as Gurung, Brahmisn, and Chettris in Hill. Similarly, by exploring the Terai region, you will be close to the Tharu people’s community. A combination of all this, along with the natural beauty of Nepal, can be a sure point for you to explore Nepal.

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