This book focuses on one of the lesser known ethnic groups of Nepal: the Chepang and more particularly on the form of Shamanism practiced within this group.Until approximately twenty years ago, the Chepang were nomadic hunters and gatherers but now due to dramatic changes in their life style, they live under what might be considered very difficult conditions.
The situation in which this ethnic group finds itself at present on the one hand the Chepang are seen by many people as outcasts at best and more often as Untouchables through the Pande, the Chepang shaman are held in great esteem being considered among the most powerful shamans in Nepal. The Chepang pande call themselves Tunsuriban, a word which describes their faculty to move freely in both the celestial and chtonious kingdoms.The whole life of the Chepang revolves round the presence of the Pande who is the key figure in the community. He, or she, is responsible for communicating with the spirits, gods and forefathers and he is also a diviner, therapist and psychopomp.The study of this ethnic group which hardly any projects have dealt with required many years of intense field work and involved more than thirty Pande.The whole life of the Chepang revolves round the presence of the Pande who is the key figure in the community. He, or she, is responsible for communicating with the spirits, gods and forefathers and he is also a diviner, therapist and psychopomp. The study of this ethnic group which hardly any projects have dealt with required many years of intense field work and involved more than thirty Pande.
ISBN:9993310050
Author:Diana Riboli
Editor:Philippa Currie
Publisher:Mandala Book Point
Publish Year:2000
Edition:First Edition
Cover:Paper Back
Subject:Shamanism | Anthropology/ Sociology | Spirituality / Spiritual | Nepal Anthropology | Nepal Non-Fiction | Non Fiction | Social Science | Nepal Culture and Custom
Language:English
Remarks:contains B&W Photographs and References
Pages:257
Religious Books
Religious books found in Nepal encompass a wide range of literature related to different religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, and more. These books are essential for spiritual guidance, education, and practice, and are considered sacred by many Nepalese people.
Hinduism is the predominant religion in Nepal, and as such, many religious books are related to it. The most popular ones are the Vedas, Puranas, Upanishads, Ramayana, and Mahabharata. These books contain information on Hindu deities, their stories, philosophies, and practices. The Bhagavad Gita, a sacred text, is also widely read and revered in Nepal, and is considered the essence of Hindu philosophy.
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Buddhism is another significant religion in Nepal, and many books related to it can be found in the country. The most popular ones include the Tripitaka, a collection of Buddha's teachings, and the Tibetan Book of the Dead, which is a guide for the dead through the afterlife. Other important Buddhist texts include the Lotus Sutra, Heart Sutra, and Diamond Sutra.
Islamic books, such as the Quran and Hadith, are also prevalent in Nepal, particularly in the Muslim community. These books contain teachings, stories, and principles related to Islam.
In addition to these, Nepal is also home to a small Christian population, and there are several Christian religious books available in the country. These include the Bible, which is considered the holy book for Christians, and other religious texts and teachings.
Overall, religious books found in Nepal are an integral part of the country's diverse cultural and spiritual landscape. They offer insight into various religions, philosophies, and practices and provide guidance and inspiration to many Nepalese people.
