Introduction To Tamangs
Among the 59 recognized indigenous groups of Nepal, Tamangs are one of them. They represent about 5.6% of the total population of Nepal, according to the census 2011. Not only this, Tamang are the largest population, who follow Buddhism in Nepal i.e 90.3%. They are the inhabitants of the Himalayan region of Nepal and also in the adjoining state of India, Bhutan, and even Myanmar. They have unique cultures and traditions among other communities of Nepal.
History
Tamangs are believed to have migrated to the Himalayan region from Tibet in the 11th century. Previously, Tamangs are termed Murmi, Bhotey, etc. It is believed to have been termed first during the regime of king Tribhuvan by the then PM Bhim Shumsher. There are many beliefs regarding their origin of them. One of the most common beliefs states, “Tamang” is derived from the Tibetan word “Tamag”. “Ta” refers to “horse” and “mag” refers to “Rider”. So, it is believed that the horse rider soldiers of Tibet during the Nepal-Tibet war could be Tamang who settle in the Himalayan hills of Nepal after the war. But this is still a matter of controversy.
The Tibetans call them “Rongpo” meaning foreigners in their own language. So, they can be indigenous inhabitants of Nepal even before the formation of Nepal. The oldest written scripture mentioning Tamang as a nationality of Nepal goes back to the 13th century, during the rule of king Boom Degon of the present Mustang region of Nepal.
Religion
As mentioned above, More than 90% of Tamang are Buddhist by Religion. They worship at Gumba, Stupas, Chhorten, and Mane. They also practice and worship their ancestors and other many deities and guardians like Soong, Mraap Soong, Footshang, Khappa, clan deity, place deity, family deity, etc.
Culture and Traditions
The Tamang culture is a blend of Buddhist and Hindu traditions and has a rich history and cultural heritage. Tamang has 6 types of social leaders with different types of roles as follows:-
- Lama:- The lama observes activities related the Buddhism and also carries out death rituals (Ghewa).
- Tamba:- They carry out marriage ceremonies and are responsible for other cultural aspects as well.
- Bonbo:- They are responsible for the treatment of sick people and also propitiate the local God and Goddesses.
- Choho:- They look after cases and provide justice to maintain peace and security within society.
- Labonbo(Lapotaba):- They keep records of clans and lineage alive through worship of clandestine.
- Ganba:- They observe other leaders and their duties and also participate in every social, religious, and political activity.
The death ritual is an interesting culture in Tamang. During this ritual, the potential married couple is formed, which means it is conducted for adults too. The Lamas usually marry the daughter of other lamas and also teach their sons to be lamas like them.
The main celebration of Tamang is Sonam Loshar, which is also a new year for them. It is celebrated in the month of Magh. Other celebration includes Buddha Jayanti. It is also known as saga dawa in their language.
Tamang Culture has a rich tradition of music and dance, which are integral parts of the community’s social and religious events. The most popular genre of flok song in Nepal of Tamang people is “Tamang Solo”. Tamang selo is sung to express love, sorrow, and stories of our day-to-day life. Tamang’s folk songs are topically played on instruments such as the Dhol or Madal (a type of drum) and the Damaha ( a brass instrument), Tunga( plucked string Instrumen.t). “Tamang selo” is widely popular and is performed at weddings and other social celebrations.
Language
The Tamang have their own dialect and language which belongs to the Tibeto-Burman Language family and is spoken by 1.5 million people in Nepal. Tamang language is written in the Tamyig script. According to Nepal’s Census of 2068, More than 90% of Tamang speak their mother language.
Clothing
Tamangs have a unique type of dress to other indigenous groups of Nepal. Primely, Tamang male wears Taytung, a Tamang coat or Tamang half coat, and a woolen Topi. Dresses are uniquely designed with special art that rewinds the culture and heritage of the Tamang people. Similarly, the Tamang female wears a blouse of different colors mainly red and black, and a sari with different patterns is wrapped around the west and is supplemented by a yellow Patuka. Females wear different ornaments and jewelry like Jantar, rings, and Dhangri in the ear. Both males and females wear a woolen topi called Shyade (Tamang Topi).
Cuisines
Tamang Cuisine is highly influenced by geography and climate. Potatoes, corn, millet, and wheat are some of the chief ingredients of Tamang cooking. The popular dish among Tamang is DHINDO ( a type of porridge made of flour and water that is cooked over low heat until it becomes thick and sticky). Similarly, another dish includes GUNDRUK( a fermented leafy green vegetable that is made into a stew and is served with rice. Various meat items are also included. They serve a special traditional soup called “SAMAY BAJI” served in various special occasions. A special food named “AAlUM” and “BAABAR” is served in their annual festival “Sonam Loshar”.
Lifestyle
The Tamangs earn their living mainly from agriculture and cattle rearing. They depend on what they grow however, they don’t eat garlic and meats of pigs, buffaloes, etc. Tamangs are very skilled and experts in many crafts and arts. They keep themselves involved in crafting works like weaving sheep wool cloths, making bamboo baskets, and leaves umbrellas. Some can be seen in “THANKA” painting, Mountaineering, carpenter and curving of woods, athletics, and many more.
Conclusion
Tamangs are known for their unique culture, traditions, and customs. They have a rich culture and a strong sense of identity. Despite this, Tamangs still face discrimination and marginalization in Nepal, leading them to lack representation in government and other institutions. In recent years, there has been an increased focus on preserving and promoting their culture and traditions. Many Individuals and organizations are formed to promote and rise awareness of issues faced by Tamangs.
In conclusion, Tamangs are an important part of Nepali society, with a rich cultural heritage and yes that should be preserved.
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