Rai people

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Rāi
ᤖᤠᤀᤡ
राई
Rai women in traditional Dhungri and bulaki.jpg
A Rai women in traditional Nose Ring(Dhungri-Bulaki)
Total population
c. 1.1 million
•Flag of Nepal.svg    Nepal•Flag of India.svg  India•Flag of Bhutan.svg  Bhutan
Regions with significant populations
 •Flag of Nepal.svg    Nepal:640,674(2021) [1] [2]

•Koshi Province :506,422
•Bagmati Province:112,364
•Madhesh Province:10,210
•Gandaki Province:7,599
•Lumbini Province:2,628
•Sudurpashchim Province:917
Karnali Province:534

 •Flag of India.svg  India:500,000 (above) [3] [4]

•West Bengal :300,000 (estimated) [5]
•Sikkim:77,954 (2006) 13.04% of total Sikkimese Population [6]
•Assam and other Northeastern States:NA
•Bihar:1000(above)few villages of Supaul and Madhepura subdivisions [7]

 •Flag of Bhutan.svg  Bhutan18,000 [8]

•Rai population mostly found Southern Bhutan and few numbers in Western and Eastern Bhutan
Languages
Religion
Predominantly:
65% Kiratism or Animism
Other Religions:
30% Hinduism, 5% Christianity (2011) [9]
Related ethnic groups

The Rai are ethnolinguistic group belonging to the Kirat family and primarily Tibeto-Burman linguistic ethnicity. [10] They mainly reside in the eastern parts of Nepal, the Indian states of Sikkim, West Bengal (predominantly Darjeeling and Kalimpong Hills) and in southwestern Bhutan. [11] [12]

Contents

Rai women in Sakela Ubhauli festival Kathmandu Kirat Rai Womans In Sakela Udhauli 2014 Festival Tundikhel Kathmandu.jpg
Rai women in Sakela Ubhauli festival Kathmandu
Rai tribal Shaman Nakso or Nakchhong performing ritual Kirat Rai Shaman From Himalayas of nepal.jpg
Rai tribal Shaman Nakso or Nakchhong performing ritual

The Rai, as a set of groups, are one of the oldest tribes of Nepal. They inhabited the area between the Dudh Koshi and Tamur River in Nepal. They claim that their country called Kiratdesh in modern times, has spread over Nepal, Sikkim and West Bengal. [13] Rai are also known as "Khambu" and in some places, they are known as "Jimee" or "Jimdar". "Jim" means "land", which meant they owned the lands and other tribes had to pay their taxes to the jimdar, they started animal farming and agricultural vegetation as their traditional occupation. They are known for worshipping nature and ancestral spirits. H.H. Risley treats the Rai and Jimdar as synonymous with the Khambus, but most of the Rai nowadays do admit Khambu and Jimdar to be synonymous terms connoting the same ethnic group. Rai are one of the dominant tribes of the Kirati group; they are a fighting tribe of Nepal. They are popularly believed to have offered a stiff resistance to the invasion of the Gorkhas. [14] Kiranti Rai are hill tribes who once possessed considerable power and territory but were reduced to submission by Prithvi Narayan Shah after his conquest of Nepal. [15] Kirati rule in the eastern hills of Nepal ended after the conquest of the Gorkha Kingdom in 1772–1773. [16]

Geographical distribution

Nepal

Numbering about 750,000, the Rai people mainly inhabit the eastern part of Nepal. Linguists have identified up to 28 different Rai languages, most of them mutually unintelligible. [17]

Distribution territory of different Rai Linguistic groups in Eastern Nepal Province No. 1 districts include Khotang, Bhojpur, Solukhambu, Dhankuta, Sankhuwasabha, Udaypur, Okhaldhunga, Ilam and Panchthar District. Rai Languages Clusters in Eastern Nepal.jpg
Distribution territory of different Rai Linguistic groups in Eastern Nepal Province No. 1 districts include Khotang, Bhojpur, Solukhambu, Dhankuta, Sankhuwasabha, Udaypur, Okhaldhunga, Ilam and Panchthar District.

The 2011 Nepal census classifies the Rai people within the broader social group of Mountain/Hill Janajati. [18] At the time of the Nepal census of 2011, 620,004 people (2.3% of the population of Nepal) were Rai. The frequency of Rai people by province was as follows:

The frequency of Rai people was higher than national average (2.3%) in the following districts: [19]

India, Bhutan and other countries

Rai predominate in the Indian states of Sikkim, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Kurseong, Mirik and Dooars of West Bengal. [20] Rai is the single largest ethnic community in Sikkim. [21] Rai population is mostly found in the south, west and east of Sikkim. [22] with a large number of Rai also living in Assam and other northeastern states, the Kingdom of Bhutan and some have recently migrated to the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, the United States and other countries.

History

Mythology of Rai People

Rai tradition relates that the first of the ancestral Kirati entered Nepal's eastern hills through the Barahachhetra gorge of the Kosi Valley the natural gateway into the region through the Mahabharat Range, which separates the hilly hinterland from the plains. [23] [24] According to the Mundum, in oral history, Kirati ancestors came out of the "Khuwalung" and then followed the small river of the Saptakoshi. They journeyed through the Arun, Dudh Koshi, Sun Koshi and Tama Koshi and finally settled down in the Bhote Koshi valley. [25] [26]

Tuwachung Jayajum Historical pilgrimage site of Rai People Tandhunga in Tuwachung Jayajum.jpg
Tuwachung Jayajum Historical pilgrimage site of Rai People

According to the myths of the Kirati Rai people "Tayama" (elder sister), "Khiyama" (younger sister) and "Raichhakule" ( Tayama and Khimaya's younger brother) are supposed to be the primaeval ancestors of the Kirati Rai's Civilization. The sisters are believed to have lived in "Tuwachung" whereas the brother in the cave of Halesi. Tayama and Khiyama were skilful in weaving the looms. They are regarded as the pioneers of textiles. Tayama is recognized by names like: Khew, Toyama, Toma, Tayama, Tangwama, Jauma, Jaumo, Dawa and Kakcha, and accordingly, Khiyama is also called Khema, Khiwama, Khliuma, Khlemo, Khewa, Khauma and Los in distinct Kiranti languages. Raichhakule (younger brother of Tayama and Khimaya) also known as Hetchhakuppa, Hetchhakuwa, Khokchilipa, Khakchhilip etc. is considered to be the beginner of the agricultural era in the cultural history of Kirati- Rai People. [27] [28] [29] [30] [31]

Salpa Pokhari(Pond) and Sillichung Mountain in Bhojpur District Eastern Nepal Salpa Pokhori and Sillichung Mountain.jpg
Salpa Pokhari(Pond) and Sillichung Mountain in Bhojpur District Eastern Nepal

Salpa Pokhari is believed to be the origin of Kirati-Rai. Salpa Pokhori is the centre of cultural belief for Kirati Rai and is related to the myth of "Salpa" and "Ribrima"(Salpa King and Queen). so Kirati Rai believed to have been born from these ancestors, Salpa and Ribrima. Salpa Pokhori is very significant and popular among Kirati Rai from cultural and religious views according to the Kirati Rai's myth, this place is the origin of the Kirati Rai people. The Sillichung Mountain known as the prime tribute is supposed to be the origin of "Mundum" according to the Kirati myth. [32] [33] [34]

Kirat Dynasty in Kathmandu Valley

Nepal enters into real historical era with the conquest of Kathmandu Valley by the Kiratis. The Kiratis are said to have been the aborigines inhabiting Eastern Nepal and having their own administrative set-up. Under the able leadership of their chieftain "Yalung" or Yalambar the Kiratis defeated Bhuwan Singh; the last king in the Ahir Dynasty and brought the Kathmandu valley under their sway. [35] From various sources mentioning Long period altogether 29 to 32 Kirati kings who had ruled over Nepal 1225 years from 800 BCE to 300 AD. Gopal genealogy mentions 32 Kirati Kings to have ruled over Nepal different genealogies have found to be stating different names of last Kirati King. The Lichhavi monarchical dynasty was established in Nepal by defeating last Kirati King 'Khigu', according to Gopal genealogy, 'Galiz' according to language-genealogy and ‘Gasti’, according to Wright genealogy. Chyasal is the place of final battlefield for Kiratis and Lichhavis. About 250 A.D. Kirati rule end in Kathmandu Valley and Kiratis moved towards east. [36] Various ancient historical,archeological sites related to history of Kiratis and Kirati period in Kathmandu Valley like Chyasal, Patan Durbar, Patuk Don, Gokarna, Thankot, Birupakshya, Lalitpur, Akash Bhairav etc. [37]

Kirat Kingdom in the east

According to historians the Lichhavis got victory only over Kathmandu. in other parts of the eastern country Kirati rule is still maintained. After the defeated Kiratis by Lichhavis in Kathmandu valley the Kiratis moved gradually east wards ruling in the small territories. In the process of expansion Kiratis extended from Banepa, Dulikhel, Sindupalchok, Darawardanda, Dolakha, Charikot to Kiratichap. [38] Kiratis built a fort in Kiratichap and started to rule again still many evidences of Kiratis ancient ruins graveyard can be found in Dolakha,Sindupalchok region like "Kirat Thursa" in Jiri "Kiratichap" in Dolakha. [39] [40] according to various folklore and oral history Lichhavi attacked again Kiratis in Dolakha and chased away. In Pursuit of the fertile land some kiratis followed Sunkoshi river they become Sunuwar. others who followed the Tamakoshi, Dudhkoshi, Arun and Tamur rivers they become today's Rai, Yakkha, Sunuwar and Limbu . After settling down in different areas Kiratis made their appropriate 'Kipat,' 'the area,' and again in the mountain region eastern hills Kiratis ruled over for centuries. in course of time due to the geo-political division three Kirati states were created as Wallo Kirat(Near Kirat), Majh Kirat (Middle Kirat) and Pallo Kirat or (Far east Kirat). [41]

Gorkhali conquest in Kirat country

Around 1743 AD King Prithvi Narayan Shah of Gorkha started to Unification of Nepal campaign, conquering many small states Gorkhalis also started to attacked in the Kirat Region. [42] according to historians, before the unification of Nepal by Prithvivinaryan Shah from Banepa to Trishuli River and around Teesta River known as Kiratdesh the territory of Kiratis. Looking at the evidence of the time when Prithvinarayan Shah expanded the Gorkha kingdom, Dolakha, Ramechhap and Sindhuli fall in Wallo Kirat and the part from Sunkoshi to upper Arun river falls in Manjh Kirat . The area from Upper Arun Arun river to East Teesta River falls within Pallo Kirat . when Prithvi Narayan Shah invaded the Dhulikhel border area of (Wallo Kirat) in 1768 AD, that time the Kirat King of Dhulikhel Chaukhat Mahindra Sing Rai and his brother Namsing Rai strongly resisted and fought valiantly with Prithivinarayan shah's huge army for a very long time. [43] [44] King Prithvi Narayan Shah had deployed Sardar Ram Krishna Kunwar to the invasion of Kirant regional areas comprising; Pallo Kirant, Wallo Kirant and Majh Kirant. There are many kings and chiftens and forts under Wallo Kirat and Majh Kirat area. It is mentioned in the book "Mechi to Mahakali" Part-1 eight thums forts of (Wallo Kirat) Okhaldhunga, namely Bungnam, Taluwa, Chyanam, Solu, Tilpung, Chisankhu, Chuplu and Chauras. [45] other forts in Majh Kirat are Hatuwa, Chawdandi, Mukali, Halesi, Khotehang, Kulum, Majhuwa, Khamtel, Pamakham, Rawa and Kepilas one by one, the Gorkhalis conquered all these forts in Wallo and Majh Kirat.

At the time when Prithivi Narayan Shah conquered the Kirat region. In this historical period, Waling Hang was the king in Hatuwā Gaḍhi(Majh Kirat) in across the Arun River. The kings of Hatuwa extended their rule over part of Khalsa. The Khalsa territory present day Ankhisalla, Dhankuta District ruled by King Budhahang. Budhahang disappeared when Prithivi Narayan Shah attacked him. During the war with the Shah king, he could revive all the dead Kirati warriors who were killed using his devine powers. [46] On 29 August 1772, Ram Krishna Kanwar crossed Dudhkoshi river enter Chaudandi to invade of Kirant and Saptari region with fellow commander Abhiman Singh Basnyat.

Khambu Kirati Youths who were skilled archers, stemmed the advance of the Gorkhali troops at every step with their arrows. they inflicted heavy losses on the Gorkhalis, so that Prithivinarayan Shah had to send reinforcement sounder the commend of Subedar Shiva Narayan Khatri. Chatim Rai of Rawa Khola and Atal Rai of Pamakham were two principal Khambus Kirati ultimately proved ineffective before, the bows and arrows of the Gorkhalis. within a period of 5 months the Gorkhalis occupied Rawa, Halesi, Majuwa,Kulum and Dingla thus conquering the hole of Majh Kirat. [47]

Culture

Rai Community has its own traditional culture and rituals. all Rai people practice same rituals of life from birth to death. but there are some variation in rites and rituals in Rai communities living in different places.

Rai People doing ancestral ritual at "Suptulung" Suptulung is a sacred place where all the Life Cycle cultural ritual activities of Rai community perform Rai people performing ancestoral ritual worship at their Three Hearth Stone of Fireplace of House.jpg
Rai People doing ancestral ritual at “Suptulung” Suptulung is a sacred place where all the Life Cycle cultural ritual activities of Rai community perform

Marriage system

Marriage in Rai group is not merely a biological and psychological relation between the couple, but essentially considered a social phenomenon that must be approved by the society. Unless the society gives recognition to the couples, they find their marital relation insecure. After the marriage, the woman's clan is not changed, though she stays with her husband; but her children follow the clan of her husband. Both the practices of monogamy and polygamy are found among Rai; but the system of polygamy has declined greatly for legal reason and due to change of attitude.

Some traditional important types of marriage found among Rai are:

a) Chori Biha (Theft Marriage): It is called Chori Biha by Rai. If a man takes a woman away from her home secretly without informing her parents, it is called ‘theft marriage’. This sort of marriage is a bit different from 'love marriage', in that the man and woman may not have developed personal relationship for a long time, which is found in love marriage. The man may like the woman all of a sudden, which the woman may not be noticing. All of a sudden, the man expresses his wish to marry her when he meets her on some occasion or gathering – like in the fairs and marketplace. In such a case, if some of her relatives or close friends encourage her to elope with the man, she may be convinced and becomes ready to go with him.

Nowadays theft marriage is gradually being replaced by 'love marriage', in which the concerned boy and girl spend some time to know each other without the influence or intervention of anybody; then they can either decide to marry, just maintain their friendship or discontinue it, depending on how far the two parties like or dislike each other.

b) Zari Biha (Marriage by paying penalty): Taking the wife of another man away in her consent for the purpose of marriage is called Zari Biha in Rai community. In such a case, a certain amount of cash is paid as a penalty by the woman's new husband to the earlier one.

c) Senzi Zari Biha (Widow marriage): In Rai community, there is not any social prohibition for the widows to marry. A widow or widower is allowed to get married, though it is not a compulsion. In this marriage, a certain penalty is paid to the widow's father-in-law or the senior family member, as a compensation for losing a member of the family.

d) Magi Biha (Arranged Marriage): Arrange marriage is performed with the mutual understanding and arrangements of both the families – the boy's side and the girl's side. It is called Magi Biha. In this marriage, the consent of the girl, the forthcoming bride, is a must. [48] [49]

Death ritual

In Rai community death is distinguished between the natural death and unnatural death in their rites of the passage as well. In the case of natural death, the body is either buried or cremated, upon the wish of the dead person. But the body must be buried in the case of unnatural death. There are many formalities in the death ritual if it is the natural death; but such formalities are less in the case of unnatural death, since it is believed that such a death turns the person into evil.

If a baby dies before the growth of his/her tooth, the funeral rite observed is very simply. Such a death is considered a bad omen and categorized under unnatural death. The pollution and purification rituals are completed on the same day in such cases

If a pregnant woman dies, her lower abdomen is bisected with a bamboo knife and the child is removed from her body. The mother and the child are buried at different burial sites according to the ritual of unnatural death. The pollution and purification ritual is completed on the same day. In the case of natural death, complete funeral rite is observed; and pollution and purification rituals are strictly followed. among Rai community a salt eating and oil drinking ceremony is performed three days after the death. On the ninth and tenth days, a Mangpa(Shaman) performs a merit making ceremony for the deceased. This ritual is done to put the deceased soul to a rest; otherwise, it is believed that the deceased person's spirit will bring harm to the family. [50]

Family and kinship

Rai have the practice of living in both the nuclear and joint families. In the nuclear family, there are two generations of people, whereas a joint family has three or more generations living together by sharing the same house and kitchen. Normally the son does not get separated immediately after his marriage. But after the marriage of his younger brother, he may wish to live separately. At the time of separation, the parental property is divided equally between the parents and sons.

Mainly three forms of kinship are found among Rai: i) kinship by blood; e.g. brother and sister, ii) kinship by marriage; e.g. father-in-law, sister-in-law, etc., iii) kinship by social relation; e.g. Miteri (friendship bond established after a special ritual) relation.

Kinship behaviour varies according to the status of the kin. Some relatives are more respectable than others, while some are in 'joking relation'. For instance, father, mother, uncle and aunt are respectable, but solti-soltinee, sali-bhena, are all in joking relation. In Rai community, son-in-law and daughter-in-law are treated equally as the son or daughter of the family.

Gender issues and decision-making procedure

Men and women having equal status in the family and community, there is almost no gender discrimination in Rai society. Although man is usually the head of the family, woman's role is equally important in planning and decision making on domestic matters. The husband decides almost nothing in absence of his wife. They generally discuss to plan the daily activities collectively in the family after dinner; and decision is made thereupon.

After a year of the death of her husband, a widow can wear her casual dresses. There is no restriction for the widow or widower regarding their clothing. They also have the freedom for remarriage; but whether to marry or not depends entirely on the widow's or widower's wish. An unmarried adult woman possesses very strong role in the family. She is heard by all.

Male and female members of family share their labour in all sorts of activities. However, a few cases are exceptions; e.g. cooking meals, which is mostly considered the responsibility of women. But when women are very busy, men take the responsibility of cooking as well. Similarly, though ploughing the field is generally considered the work of men, unmarried girls are also found involved in it to support men in their work.

Attire and ornaments

Women

Rai women used to weave homespun cloth from the khadi, cotton, wool and allo nettle plant. [51] [52] [53]

Weaving painting of Rai women Rai women weaving Painting.jpg
Weaving painting of Rai women

Rai women's garments are:

  • shawl (mujetro, burkey, tangdoma)
  • blouse (cholo, yamlung)
  • sari (guniu, tamphay)
  • mekl
  • waist bands hawl (hembari)
  • waist sash (patuki chhakchhima).

Accessories:

  • Every Rai-Kirati lady used to keep a khurpi (a small carved knife)
  • pig hair round brush (kuchi)
  • musical instrument (binayo or dong)
  • (Marchunga Dotengwa)
  • hair band (lachha, tangkhi)

Women weave their own clothes on a tan, a wooden weaving machine, from cotton, wool and fibres made from the bark of stinging nettle (sisnu, ganam).

  • Sirful- शिरफुल
  • Dhungri-Bulaki, ढुंग्री-बुलाकी
  • Chepteysun, चेप्टेसुन
  • Chandrahaar, चन्द्रहार
  • Naugedi, नौगेढी़
  • Renji Hari, रेजी/पैसाको हारी
  • Kalli,चाँदीको कल्ली
  • Balla, चाँदीको बाला,ठेका चुरा
  • Godawari, गोदावरी
  • Tariwoon, तारीवान्
  • Puwalo Mala, पुवालो माला
  • Jantar, जन्तर
  • Hansuli, हसुली
  • Dhajura-Pechuri, धजुरा-पेचुरी
  • Kantha-lolopot,watlung
  • Bijikini
  • Godawari
  • Thokasing/chuklung
  • Waximari

Men

Rai men wear Wachinari Mala (Dzi bead), Potlung (Puwalo Mala) garland, and animal tooth necklaces. Male dress comprises headgear (feta; pagari; sayabung); Betebung shirt (dawm; lockchham); pant (suruwal; langsup); sleeveless coat made of stinging nettle plant fiber (chhakchha; fenga); waistband (narimokty); (patuki, chakchhinma), a large knife (khukuri, dabhay). [54]

Religion

Rai have been following Kirat religion since the ancient times. Kirat religion is based on animistic nature and ancestor worship. Rai do not believe in heaven or hell. There is no religious hierarchy. Kirati Rai engages Nakchong, Mangpa, Bijuwa, Nakso their tribal shamans in their religious rites. During the course of their recent history the Rai has increasingly borrowed elements from the major religions they have had contact with from Lamaist Buddhism or Nepalese Hinduism without however renouncing their own tribal traditions. [55] As per Nepali Census of 2011 AD, roughly one third of Rai people follow Hinduism(30 %), two third follow Kirat Mundhum Dharma(65 %), while 5 % are Christians. [18]

Suptulung: Places of sacred worship

Suptulung/Samkhalung:Teen Chula Dhunga, the three hearthmade stone sacred worship place of the Rai People Samkhalung Suptulung Secred Worship Place of Kirat Rai.jpg
Suptulung/Samkhalung:Teen Chula Dhunga, the three hearthmade stone sacred worship place of the Rai People

Teen Chula or Chula Dhunga "The three hearth made stones" called Dayahulung or Suptulung is the central part all the rituals or rites of Rai practised from birth to death are done in this Teen Chula 'Suptulung' The major deity of all Rai is 'Teen chula' (Suptulung) The three hearthmade stoned oven' of the house. "The Term Lu or Lung refers to the stone and thus the suffix like lu or lung is found in most of the names of the oven in house eg; Taplelung, Suptulung, Mayalung, Ghewalung etc. Almost every thing from the right beginning of birth 'cradle to the tomb' is performed on the sacred teen chula without Teen Chula no rituals can be done. In Rai culture, Teen Chula is the gate-way to enter in the real and practical day to day life. [56] There is (Suptulung) 'Teen Chula' in every house of Rai. It is buried on one side of the inner corner of the house. It said that "Dash Rai Dash Bhasa Ek Chula" "There is Same Teen Chula of all ten diversified Rai" it is believed that in the beginning there is only Ten 'Thars' of Rai but later Rai are divide into many 'thars' sub-group Teen Chula (Suptulung) is the Tribal identity of Rai and its a symbol of unity of different diviersified Kirati Rai in one ethnic family. [57] Teen Chula(Suptulung)also known as Samkhalung in bantawa Rai dialect The word "Samkha" means ancestors and "Lung" means stones. Samkhalung the three main stones,

  1. Papalung: symbolizing male ancestors,
  2. Mamalung: symbolizing female ancestors, and
  3. Ramilung: symbolizing societal spiritual energies.

The Teen Chula are considered by the Rai to be their most important shrines Teen Chula is sacred place after death where the departed souls ancestors of the Rai live in this place. Teen Chula philosophy (three knowledge perspectives) as the distinctive original identity of Rai. [58]

Folk gods and goddesses

Kirati Rai are basically animist they worship various Household deity and Nature deities.

Sumnima and Paruhang as the archetypal proto female and proto male Kirati Rai's supreme deity is Sumnima-Paruhang. Sumnima is a female goddess which is believed to be the Mother Earth (Mother Nature) and Paruhang is a male god also known as the king Sky God. Sumnima And Paruhang Praimeval Ancestoral deity of Kirat Rai.jpg
Sumnima and Paruhang as the archetypal proto female and proto male Kirati Rai's supreme deity is Sumnima-Paruhang. Sumnima is a female goddess which is believed to be the Mother Earth (Mother Nature) and Paruhang is a male god also known as the king Sky God.

Kirati Rai worship as ancestral god and goddess to Sumnima and Paruhang. Sumnima also known as 'Hengkhamma' the Mother Earth and Paruhang also known as 'Ninamma' Father the Sky god. The Sumnima is the supreme female God, wife of the Paruhang She represents the earth and ancestral mother. Paruhang is the supreme male God, husband of the Sumnima, lords of flowers. Sumnima-Paruhang are the deities of creator, preserver and sustainer god and goddess of the Rai. Hence it is not appropriate to equate these venerated god and goddess with the Shiva(a destroyer god of Hinduism) and Parvati(consort of Shiva), as it is often equated in Rai literature these days this is simply Hinduisation of the lesser-known Rai believe System. [59] [60] [61]

Rai shamanism

Rai Shaman Eastern Nepal Rai Shaman Eastern Nepal.jpg
Rai Shaman Eastern Nepal

Rai shamanism comprises a plurality of shamanic traditions, varied but closely related, like the Rai groups themselves. The Rai in East Nepal consist of numerous subtribes, and even though they speak different languages and have their own distinct traditions, they all share a common linguistic and cultural heritage. Together with Limbu (the language of a related group residing farther to the east, also in Sikkim and Darjeeling), the Kirati Rai languages belong to the Kiranti family, which is a subgroup of Tibeto-Burman. Culturally the Rai have been influenced by both Hinduism and Tibetan Buddhism, but these influences have only marginally affected their ancestral traditions, in which shamanic features still figure prominently. [62]

The Mundum

The "mundum" is the oral tradition among the Rai and it is also a long-standing, and ancient, though not unchanging, ritual practice. Mundum is also addressed as "Ridum" "Muddum" or "Pelam". Iiterally, "Muna" means "Man" and "dum" means talk" which can be said speaking of man or oral talking as a hole the mundum is an oral tradition. so, it may differ in place to place. The term mundum is generally pronounced as mundhum by Nepali speakers. Many researchers have documented the term mundhum in their research. The /dh/ sound in mundum is not found in many Kirati languages. If it is found in other Kirati languages, it often is a loan sound. The term mundhum thus might be of Nepali influence. So, the native term is "mundhum”. In this case, the term mundum changes into the mundhum because the alveolar is changed into the dental aspirated /dh/ because it might be the influence of the Nepali language. [63] Although, the concept is the same, the term mundum has different variants among different subgroups of Rai. Gaenszle (2002: 40–42), who has done pioneering work in the field of Kirati ritual, has extensively studied about it and collected different terms, which are as follows:

Rai Tribes and Clans

Rai have distinct cultural tradition. The community is divided into different subtribes called "Thar" all have their own distinctive language or dialect this division of Rai into various subtribes allows for the minor alterations in the ritualistic practices while the essence of the traditions remains homogeneous largely. within the "Thar" there are clan division called "Pacha"(pa=papa/father and cha=children). clans are exogamous. There is further classification within the Pacha known as "Samet". Samet traces the relationship of a person to his/her ancestor. Pacha and Samet is main ritual identity of Rai, which is compulsory needed in every ritual performance. [65] [66]

Rai Sub-communities or linguistics groups

The Rai Sub-communities or linguistics groups are:

  1. Chamling
  2. Bantawa
  3. Thulung
  4. Kulung
  5. Khaling
  6. Sampang
  7. Newahang or Mewahang
  8. Lohorung
  9. Yamphu
  10. Bayung or Bahing
  11. Wambule
  12. Athpariya
  13. Dumi
  14. Dungmali
  15. Puma
  16. Nachhiring
  17. Jerung
  18. Tilung
  19. Mugali
  20. Koyu
  21. Chhiling
  22. Chhintange
  23. Phangduwali
  24. Dewas
  25. Sotang
  26. Lingkhim or Lungkhim

Clans of Rai Tribes/Sub- Communities

Languages

The Rai languages are members of the Sino-Tibetan language family. They belong to the Kiranti group of the Tibeto-Burman languages branch of the Sino-Tibetan family. In the Nepal National Census of 2011, roughly 800,000 respondents declared a Kiranti languages as their "mother tongue". The number of speakers is probably less than this. The Census of India (2001) reported 50,000 speakers of Limbu and Rai in India (most in Sikkim) Linguistic Survey of India n.d.). [67] [68]

Festivals

Sakela

Sakela is the gathering of Rai people for the celebration of Udhauli and Ubhauli. Sakela is actually affiliated with Chamling people of Kirati Rai community. Since the identity of different groups of Rai are at depleting, many Rai are taking Sakela as the main festival of Rai. However, truth remains that Sakela is a dance performed during Udhauli and Ubhauli while Rai people gather together. The Rai people (Chamling group) call it by different names like Sakenwa, Sakela, Tosh or Toshi, Bhume, Sakel, Wass, Segro, Sakewa, Dhuulu, Phagulak, Gelang, Gayapuja among different linguistic groups. This event is performed for 15-15 days in a year as ubhauli(Dhirinam) in full moon day of the Baisakh and udhauli(Chhirinam), in full moon day of Mangsir in Kirati Rai villages.

The major philosophy of Sakela is nature worship; importance is placed on paying tribute to ancestors to whom current generations owe their existence. [69] Since Kirati people consider themselves the followers of the nature, they celebrate Udhauli and Ubhauli with sakela to worship sky, earth, rivers, and forest on the one hand; they pay tribute towards the deceased members of their family on the other hand.

During sakela, the dance known as silli is performed. Silli varies from village to village in the beating of jhyamta cymbals and dhol. The choreography of silli depicts important daily activities, and explains the traditional origins of agricultural practices such as digging, tilling, weeding and farming cotton. Likewise, the imitation of the birds and animals is also performed in lively silli. Other activities like worshiping the tap and sun are depicted in the sillis and in the spiritual sillis, the ancestors, like "Tayama-Khiyama", hunter, Chasum, Narawa, "Paruhang-Nayuma" are shown in dance.

The Kirati ancestor "Hetchhakuppa" is considered to be the first performer of silli. Around 45 silli are claimed to be in the existence even today.

Nwagi

Nwagi is celebrated during prior to eating the harvested food crops, Kirati Rai clean the ancestral room(Suptulung) and various New crops are offered to ancestors during Nwagi puja. Nwagi puja also known as (Pirtri puja) Ancestral worship, it is believed that new food crops not be eaten until the Nwagi puja or without offered the ancestors. Nwagi puja is all about offering new food of the year to the ancestors' cook a lot of varieties of food (including alcohol) to offer to the ancestors. this puja perform by priest or elder people (male) of house performs all the rituals. During nwagi celebration also invite family relatives in house. different varieties of foods and alcohol serve to the guests relatives chat with each other and the day ends with the farewell. Kirati Rai call the Nwagi puja by different names and perform it in different ways. [70]

Yele

Yele Sambat also known as "Yaledong" By Rai People Maghe Sankranti also celebrate same day. The Yele Sambat calendar is named after the first Kirat king Yalambar. It is said that this calendar started when the Kirat king Yalambar defeated the Gopal dynasty in the Kathmandu Valley. The Yele Sambat calendar begins on 15 January. This new year day is also celebrated as Maghe Sankranti in Nepal when people eat sweet potato and various kinds of yams and sel roti. [71]

Other festivals

Folk songs and dances

Tody in the field of Nepali music, vocal lyrics dance and other arts the Kirati- Rai occupied a large space. Specially Eastern Nepali folk music mostly influence from Rai community. [74]

Folk songs

Rai community has rich cultural rituals. Some are well preserved from the earliest time while some others are dying and some are already dead. The community stores a vast number of chham 'songs' i.e. Rungpuwachham, Hakparechham, Yari/Hiyarichham, Saimachham, Sakelachham, Dolokupmachham, Risiya/risiwa, Hopachham,Juwari,Salmaya,Laibari/Lambari Chham,Radamle etc. which are sung for different purposes on specific occasions.

Folk dances

Folk musical instruments

Some of the musical instruments found in Rai community are: Dhol, Jhyamta Binayo, Murchunga, Murali/Bansuri, Mandala (madal), Jhyali, Majira, Bimbilia, Sumbak), Khakuma, Pung, Sillimi, Yalamberbaja etc. [85]

Kongkongma or Binayo is a traditional Kirati- Rai Instrument made from hidden Malingo species of bamboo. Binayo is made by digging in the middle of a small bamboo-about six-inch stream, removing the tongue, tying the thread on both sides and carving a beautiful pattern. Binayo made in this way is played by shaking the long rope of the bar in front of the tongue When playing in this way, Binayo is placed on both the lips of the mouth to make various vakas and the vibration caused by the push of air from inside is affected by the tongue.This instrument is carried by a Kirat Rai woman hanging on the tuna of her cholo.

The main rhythm instrument of the Kirat Rai is Dhol or (Bubuk ken). This instrument is mainly used in Sakewa (Sakela dance) in some places mangpa and Bijuwas are also used for worship while sitting in the place . It is also a popular instrument in Nepal.

Along with the Dhol, Jhyamta (Munikomma) is also played in Sakewa Sakela dance. In some places, Bijuwa and Mangpas are also used for worship while sitting in the place.

Among the various bamboo instruments, the Yalambar is one of the most important and original instrument of the Kirat Rai . By keeping the eyes on both the sides of the bamboo, the choya of the same bamboo is taken out and a four-cornered hole is made in the middle of the bamboo choita chaper. This instrument is also an indicator of musical civilization.

Murchunga Or Kakkong made of iron is the original traditional instrument of Kirat Rai. It is customary for Kirat Rai youths to give this instrument as a gift to their favorite friends.

Sumbak or leaf instrument is a musical instrument that is played by holding the side of a smooth leaf between two lips and taking out various vakas. This instrument is especially popular in Kirati community of Eastern Nepal,Sikkim,Darjeeling region.

Khakuma or Charibaja is an instrument made of bamboo. this instrument is called Charibaja or (Khakuma) because it sounds like a bird when it is blown of the mouth.

Pung is an instrument played by blowing the horn of Animal Wild buffalo with a hole in the top and placing a Malingo pipe in that small hole. This baja is played along with Dhol-zyamta with Nokcho (Shaman Priest) when going to worship at Tosh or Toshi,Wass (Sakela) Than. This instrument is a traditional instrument prevalent in the Khambu Rai community. This instrument is used with special importance by the Kulung, Khaling, Thulung, Nachhering of the Rai community. Its sound is similar to that of a conch shell.

Murali (Bibilimma) Flute is made of small bamboo of Malingo species. Nigalo Malingo bamboo is very good for to make Murali flute . It is cut horizontally on one side and a thin bamboo choya or bhakkimila wood is placed there and a hole is made. On the other side, 6–7 hole are placed. To play it, you put the side of the flute in your mouth and blow it slowly, then the sound starts flowing from there. In order to convert this flowing sound into music, the holes covered by the fingers are covered and opened in order. When playing the flute in this way, a very melodious voice flows. It is the most beloved instrument of Kirat Rai.

Chambyken (Jharky Thal) Bronze Plate are especially played by Mangpa, Bijuwa, Nakchhongs when they Chanting Mundum mantras.

Jor Murali (Two in One Flute) is endangered folk instrument of Kirat Rai. Jor Murali is played by tying two strings made of bamboo sticks with the same sound. Kirat Rai style of Jor Murali Baja is left to make in the present days. this Instrument have already become extinct.

Dhyangro or (Sangra Ken) is mostly used by Khambu Rai Shamans; Mangpa, Bijuwa, well as their allies Kencharawa.

This silimi is made by placing 12 rings side by side in a flat elongated shape made of iron and placing four rings under the lower grip. The silimi baja is played by holding the sili dance in one's hand and shaking it with the dance moves. This is the traditional instrument of the Rai Community

Madal is one of the most popular instruments in Nepali music today. This Madal wooden stone is made of Animal leather, coal, rice husk and other materials. It is believed that Madal was made after the Yalambar Baja of the Kiratis. Madal has a special cultural significance in Wambule Rai community.

Basuri is also a major folk Instrument among Kirat Rai. Basuri has a Special Cultural significance important of Wambule Rai community. [86]

The Kirat Rai used Susulila/Suseli as sweet music. Whistling can be done only with the mouth without the help of any object, while using the fingers of the hand in the mouth is also used to transmit signals far and wide. [87]

Kangling is mostly used by Rai (Shamans) Mangpa, Bijuwa, Nakchong during ritual activities

Occupations

Terrace farming Hillsides around Bung Hongu Valley Lower Solukhambu dominant inhabited region of Rai People of Kulung sub group Erraced Hillsides around Bung.jpg
Terrace farming Hillsides around Bung Hongu Valley Lower Solukhambu dominant inhabited region of Rai People of Kulung sub group

Farming is the main occupation of the majority of Rai people. Mostly they cultivate maize, millet, wheat, mustard in dry terraces, and rice in the wet fields. The grains grown are mostly for their own daily needs such as to use in festivals and to feed the animals. Besides that they use it to make spirits and beer for consumption and some sell at the bazar at the local market. In almost all households women Raise buffalo, pigs and chickens, and they run tiny provision stores for supplementary income, especially used to sell homemade beer and alcohol (Lee, 2005:16).

In the past Rai people were into hunting and they liked to use bow and arrows, and they used to weave their own clothes made from Bhangra (allo) to wear.

But in the modern times significant number of Rai are also employed in foreign military service and in foreign employment, like the Indian Gorkha Regiment , British Gurkha Regiment , Gurkha Contingent of Singapore Police. Along with their relatives they have had the opportunity to work and live abroad in countries like United Kingdom, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Brunei and India. Because of that financially, compared to some other indigenous groups, they are relatively better off.

Some Rai have reached top national level Political, bureaucratic, academic and Diplomatic positions( see Notable Rai people below)

Traditionally daily housework, such as cooking is the responsibility of the young women, especially girls,. They tend to be the ones who gather firewood from the forests and carry water from the communal water sources while men are mostly involved in the agriculture activities.

In the past Kirati Rai people used to use the land under the Kipat system where the people exercised communal rights over the land; land that was tax free and included dominion over all cultivated lands, forests, streams and rivers within its bounds (Bista, 1967:38). Under the Kipat system other ethnic groups had to pay tax to the Rai owners of the land. People used to farm their land on their own, seldom were fields rented or cultivated by anyone others than the owners.

Almost every single Rai village has a few soldiers, police or civil servants and older pensioners. Because of their bravery, fearlessness, honesty and straightforward nature it's easy for them to join the armies. Nowadays many Rai are also working with the government services too; some holding high ranks and positions (ibid: 39). These types of professions really show the Rai people as a hard working people.

The planting and harvesting seasons from spring to autumn gives them plenty of work to do and in winter time villagers make trips towards the important towns to buy necessary goods such as salt, oil and materials for clothing. They carry goods for trade rather than money on these trips. One farmer may have several fields and they shift from one to another according to the seasons. Traditional Bullocks are used for ploughing the land, the grass and dry undergrowth are burned away, supplying the soil with ash residue (ibid: 38). A majority of the people are in debt, the usual practice for money transaction to be made against security in the land. [88]

Notable Rai people

See also

Related Research Articles

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<span class="mw-page-title-main">Limbu people</span> Sino-Tibetan ethnic group

The Limbu or Yakthung (endonym) are a Tibeto-Burman ethnolinguistic group indigenous to the Himalayan region of eastern Nepal, Sikkim, Assam, Nagaland, northern West Bengal, and western Bhutan.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Sunuwar people</span> Ethnic group in South Asia

The Sunuwar or Koinch are a Tibeto-Burman ethnic group. a Kirati tribe native to Nepal, parts of India and southern Bhutan. They speak the Sunuwar language. According to the 2001 census of Nepal, 17% of the tribe follow the Kirant religion and adopt the Mundhum (Kiranti) culture.

Iman Xin Chemjong Limbu, or Iman Singh Chemjong Limbu; was a Limbu historian, writer, linguist, lexicographer, folklorist, and philosopher of Nepal. Chemjong devoted his entire life to studying and documenting various facets of Kirat Limbu tradition and culture at a time when such activities were frowned upon and even punished by the Nepalese ruling elite as being subversive and "anti-national". Chemjong's research into and publication of Kirant history and culture challenged perceptions of the Nepalese official doctrine that showcased Nepal as a Hindu cultural monolith devoid of alternative narratives.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Rai language</span> Topics referred to by the same term

Rai language may refer to:

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Kirati people</span> Indigenous ethnic groups of the Himalayas

The Kirati people, also spelled as Kirant, are Sino-Tibetan ethnolinguistic groups and indigenous peoples of the Himalayas, mostly the Eastern Himalaya extending eastward from Nepal to Northern India (predominantly in the Indian States of Sikkim and Darjeeling & Kalimpong hills of northern West Bengal

The Bantawa Language, is a Kiranti language spoken in the eastern Himalayan hills of eastern Nepal by Kirati Bantawa ethnic groups. They use a syllabic alphabet system known as Kirat Rai. Among the Khambu or Rai people of Eastern Nepal, Sikkim, Darjeeling and Kalimpong in India, Bantawa is the largest language spoken. According to the 2001 National Census, at least 1.63% of the Nepal's total population speaks Bantawa. About 370,000 speak Bantawa Language mostly in eastern hilly regions of Nepal (2001). Although Bantawa is among the more widely used variety of the Bantawa language, it falls in the below-100,000 category of endangered languages. It is experiencing language shift to Nepali, especially in the northern region.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Kirat Mundhum</span> Indigenous religion of the Kirati

Kirat Mundum, also known as Kiratism, or Kirati Mundum, is an animistic folk religion of the Kirati ethnic groups of Nepal, Darjeeling and Sikkim, majorly practiced by Yakkha, Limbu, Sunuwar, Rai, Thami, Jirel, Hayu and Surel peoples in the north-eastern Indian subcontinent. The practice is also known as Kirat Veda, Kirat-Ko Veda or Kirat Ko Ved. According to some scholars, such as Tom Woodhatch, it is a blend of shamanism, animism, and Shaivism. It is practiced by about 3.17% of the Nepali population as of 2021.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Chamling language</span> Language in Nepal, Bhutan and India

Chamling is one of the Kirati languages spoken by the Chamling of Nepal, India and Bhutan. Alternate renderings and names include Chamling, Chamlinge and Rodong. It is closely related to the Bantawa and Puma languages of the Kiranti language family in eastern Nepal, and it belongs to the broader Sino-Tibetan language family. Chamling has SOV word order.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Sakela</span> One of the main festival of Kirat Rai people

Sakela is one of the main festival of Kirat Rai people, an ethnic group indigenous to Eastern Nepal and Sikkim, Kalimpong, and Darjeeling regions of India. Sakela is celebrated twice a year and is distinguished by two names Ubhauli and Udhauli. Sakela Ubhauli is celebrated during Baisakh Purnima and Sakela Udhauli is celebrated during the full moon day in the month of Mangsir.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nakchhong</span>

Nakchhong (नाक्छोङ) are the Shamanic tribal priest of Rai people an ethnic group that is predominantly located in the Himalayas of Nepal, Sikkim, Darjeeling and Kalimpong.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Balankha</span> Neighborhood in Bhojpur District, Province No. 1, Nepal

Balankha is the headquarters of the newly formed Aamchok rural municipality in Bhojpur District of Province No. 1 of Nepal. Balankha was a separate Village development committee before 2017. It became part of Aamchock rural municipality fulfilling the requirement of the new Constitution of Nepal 2015. Ministry of Federal Affairs and Local Development replaced all old VDCs and Municipalities into 753 new local level body (Municipality).

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Kulung people</span>

The Kulung also call Kulunge are one of the major subgroup of kirati people and indigenous communities of Nepal, as well as parts of northeastern Sikkim and Darjeeling district of India, having their own Kulung language, culture, history and tradition.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Nwagi festival</span>

Nwagi, also spelled Nuwagi or Udhauli, is a major festival celebrated the by Rai people and also other Kirati ethnic community. Nuwagi also call by Rai sub-groups: "Nagi or Dedam" in Kulung, "Chowaa" in Chamling " Chhachhuwa" in Bantawa, "Nuwagi or Khamang" in Lohorung, Yamphu and Mewahang languages.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Udhauli</span> Kirat festival celebrated to thank nature for providing them with good harvest.

Udhauli (उधौली) is a festival of the Kirat communities of Kirati people specially celebrated by Sunuwar, Limbu, Thami,Yakkha, Khambu Rai etc. of Nepal, India and other different countries around the world where these indigenous people resides. It is celebrated every year marking the migration phase downwards towards the low-elevation regions when the winter season arrives. The migration from the low-elevation areas upwards to hilly areas is called Ubhauli (upwards), which is also an annual festival of these communities On the Udhauli festival day, the Kirat people offer thanks to mother nature for providing a good harvest.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Ubhauli</span> Kirat festival celebrate to pray mother nature for good harvest

Ubhauli (उभौली) is festival of the Kirat communities of Sunuwar, Rai, Limbu and Yakkha of Nepal, India and around the world by Kirati people celebrated every year marking the migration phase upwards towards the hilly regions when the summer season arrives. The migration from hills downwards to areas of lower altitude is called Udhauli (downwards), which is also an annual festival of these communities. Sakela is the dance performed during the festival. On this Ubhauli festival day, the Kirat people pray to mother nature for healthy crops and protection from natural calamities in that year.

Bhupal Rai is a poet, lyricist, writer and editor. He is currently chancellor of Nepal Academy. He has voiced for the rights of the marginalized people through his writings. His writings carry the organic essence of the Kirati people and their culture. His writings carry the blend of Marxist philosophy and socio-cultural pragmatism of the indigenous people.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Dance in Nepal</span> Aspect of Nepalese culture

Dance is a performing art form consisting of purposefully selected sequences of human movement. Dance (Nepali: नृत्य/ नाच) in Nepal comprises numerous styles of dances, including folk, ethnic, classical to modern dances. Lakhey is the dance of a demon in the carnival of God. Durbar Square, a historic plaza in Kathmandu, Nepal, facing ancient palaces and adorned by Hindu temples, is always full of eager crowds on the last day of Indra Jatra, the festival celebrating Indra, the Hindu king of heaven. In this divine stage, Lakhe the demon dances among gods and deities relentlessly and carelessly.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Khuwalung</span> Sacred rock in Province No. 1 of Nepal

Khuwalung is a rock in the Saptakoshi river of Nepal sacred to the Kirati people. The rock lies at the confluence of Dudh Koshi, Arun, and Tamor rivers, near the Belaka municipality of Udayapur district. It is considered as one of the holiest site of the Kirati people. The name of the rock is uttered in the beginning and ending of every Kirat religious ritual.

Kirat Rai is a left-to-right abugida, based on the Sumhung Lipi of 1920s, used to write the Bantawa language in the Indian state of Sikkim. Kirat Rai is composed of 31 primary characters, including seven vowels, one of which (/a/) is inherent in all consonants, 31 consonants, a virama to cancel the inherent vowel, and a vowel carrier to be used in combination with the vowel diacritics for writing word-initial vowels.

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  72. ↑ "WADHANGMI - किराती मौलिक लोक लयमा अाधारित (वाढाङमी लयमा अाधारित) पुर्खाको कथा पुर्खाको ब्यथा - 2076" – via www.youtube.com.
  73. ↑ "संस्कृति : संकटमा किरात वाम्बुले राई जातिको महान् चाड 'ढ्वाङ्कुमो'". 15 September 2020.
  74. ↑ "Rai Songs and Rituals". www.tirakita.com.
  75. ↑ "HIYARI - किराती मौलिक लोक लयमा अाधारित (हियारी) अाईया नि साईमा च्यौ "रुङरीमा" - 2076" – via www.youtube.com.
  76. ↑ "Saima Chham A Rai Wedding song". av.mandala.library.virginia.edu.
  77. ↑ "Hopmachham In Puma Rai language". hav.univie.ac.at/media/24kbvd/
  78. ↑ "Yamphu Hakpare songs". /www.isaiyamphu.com. 9 October 2019.
  79. ↑ "पुर्वको मौलिक लोकभाका:लैबरी". m.youtube.com.
  80. ↑ "LAIBARI (LAMWARI) MOVIE DILENDRA MUKARUNG RAI". m.youtube.com.
  81. ↑ "Kirat Rai Culture/Civilization and Religion". m.youtube.com.
  82. ↑ "Kirat Rai CommunityFacebook login". Facebook . Archived from the original on 26 February 2022.
  83. ↑ "Hurla Song of Yamphu movie Senungfu". m.youtube.com.
  84. ↑ "isilim Maagazine of Dumi Kirat Rai Fansikhim" (PDF). himalaya.socanth.cam.ac.uk.
  85. ↑ "Kirat Rai Folk Tune - किरात लोक धुन - Naulakha" – via www.youtube.com.
  86. ↑ "वाम्बुले राई र बाँसुरी लोक परम्पराको सुनौलो कथा". 15 September 2020.
  87. ↑ "New Lok Geet 2075/2018 | Sunkoshi Bagyo Salala - Jeeten Rai" – via www.youtube.com.
  88. ↑ "The impacts of Modernization on the traditional Sakawa Sili festival in the Rai Kirat community of Nepal: A case study of the Rai community" (PDF).

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