Nepalese Culture Essay

Document Type:Essay

Subject Area:Cultural Studies

Document 1

Incredible right? But there is something else that makes Nepal more interesting. Violence and fights for religion, language and culture have never been experienced in Nepal's history. Sure, no bloodshed has been witnessed in this holy land in the name of religion, tradition or culture. This is the main reason why Nepal is regarded as a peaceful land and exemplary. Nepal’s culture is unique and fascinating at the same time in diversity terms and the unity in this diversity. Religion is one of Nepal's common prominent factors. Nepalese festivals that are held every add flavor and color to Nepalese culture. During these festivals celebrations, food is one of the significant factors. Nepalese Religion Declaration of Nepal as a secular nation took place in 2006 at the parliament (Gellner & Ananya).

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The religions practiced in Nepal include Buddhism, Hinduism, Jainism, Ancestor worship, Sikhism, animism, Islam, and Christianity. People either pray to Shiva Linga directly or pray to him through Lord Shiva’s phallic symbol in temples of Shiva. Shakti, Shiva’s female counterpart is also highly feared and revered. Figure 2: Hindu Religion of Nepal Mahadevi, Bhagabati, Mahakali and Ishwari are the few names given. Kumari who is the female Goddess represents Shakti. Other deities include; Ganesh, Saraswati, Lakshmi and Hanuman for Luck, knowledge, wealth and protection respectively. Another concept that I find interesting among my Nepalese people is the pure and impure division. Jutho; material or food that has passed through another's mouth indirectly or directly is unclean according to the Nepalese.

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Cow dung is considered pure among the Nepalese as it is used for cleansing purposes. Menstruating women are taken as impure, thus secluded until the purification bath day which is usually the fourth day. Nepal also follows patriarchy systems. A favorite meal for special occasions is the curried meat, although it is relatively expensive. Momo is the most popular Nepali snack. Dhedo and Rotis are also some of the everyday meals. Figure 3: Nepalese Food Personal Cultural Profile Personal Profile Name My name is ……. I was born in…… I am the youngest/oldest of two children in my family. I have also learned about the Chinese culture from an exchange student from Bangkok who came to my high school. We have also had other exchange students from Denmark and Germany.

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