Tamang Culture
The Tamang people are an indigenous ethnic group predominantly found in the hilly regions of Nepal, especially in the Kathmandu Valley and surrounding areas. A sizeable population of Tamangs are also thriving in Darjeeling and Sikkim. They speak the Tamang language, which belongs to the Tibeto-Burman language family, and are known for their distinct cultural practices, including their traditional clothing, rituals, and festivals. The Tamang are largely practitioners of Tibetan Buddhism, with strong influences from shamanistic beliefs, and they honor a variety of deities, spirits, and ancestors in their daily lives. Tamang culture is marked by its vibrant festivals, music, dance, and artistic traditions, which continue to play a vital role in maintaining their social cohesion and cultural identity.
The Bombo in Tamang Shamanism: An Overview
Tamang Shamans, known as Bombo, serve as essential mediators between the seen and unseen worlds. For generations, the Tamang have upheld a rich indigenous knowledge system, transmitted through oral traditions and carefully preserved across time.
Tamang Marriage: Mock Capture and Negotiation
Marriage customs and rituals have passed through a long progression of cultural evolution among many tribes in the Himalayas. Even with group affiliations and individual choices, marriage customs, with a few exceptions..