"The
promotion and exercise of tolerance, the ability to keep our hearts and minds
open to the reasoning of others are the true litmus tests to gauge whether our
commitment to the full and interdependent set of human rights and to human
dignity is truly genuine and not just expedient rhetoric." Ms.
Navanethem Pillay
Saturday, June 30, 2012
Friday, June 15, 2012
Magar language
Magars speak Pang (known as Kham) in Mid-Western region, Tarali or Kaike in Dolpa district of North-Western region, and Dhut mostly in the West and Central part of Nepal. These mother tongues belong to Tibeto-Burman family. The population of mother tongue speakers is 3.39% of the total population of Nepal (2001 census). Other remaining Magars speak Khas, and Nepali. Magar language stands at the seventh rank in Nepal in terms of the large number of population speaking their mother tongue. The Magar tongue speaking population in 1952/54, 1991, and 2001 were 273780, 430264, and 770116 respectively. The study of the trend in mother tongue retention shows that Magar language retention rate has increased from 32.1% of 1991 to 47.7% of 2001 census.
Population by mother tongue and sex
Total Number % Cumulative % Male Female
770116 3.39 86.51 372568 397548
Source: CBS, 2002
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Constituent Assembly revival or fresh elections
Personally I am in favour of CA revival because it will save time, cost, it will prevent polarization of society, and it will definitely guarantee Constitution. Prashant Jha, in his article, also fears of some kind of uncertainty if new election is held. He writes:
Elections are more democratic and will accurately reflect the new balance of forces. But the outcome is almost certain to be fragmented. Will the next house, which will consists of parties who have fought elections purely on positions of federalism, be able to throw up a document of compromise? The interim constitution did not envisage that CA would not produce a constitution, but Nepal no longer has that luxury of not contemplating failure; how will it deal with a scenario where a social contract is not drawn again. And listening to the conservatives — those who mythologize the 90s and want to go back to that period — will not work. Radical democrats, republicans, federalists and secularists will wage a battle for survival to protect existing achievements.
On Oct 28, 2012, the retired judges of Supreme Court have suggested to go for fresh CA election rather than to opt for the revival of CA.
Read more
सुरक्षित समाधान ः संविधानसभाको पुनःस्थापना | विविधा | :: कान्तिपुर ::
Elections are more democratic and will accurately reflect the new balance of forces. But the outcome is almost certain to be fragmented. Will the next house, which will consists of parties who have fought elections purely on positions of federalism, be able to throw up a document of compromise? The interim constitution did not envisage that CA would not produce a constitution, but Nepal no longer has that luxury of not contemplating failure; how will it deal with a scenario where a social contract is not drawn again. And listening to the conservatives — those who mythologize the 90s and want to go back to that period — will not work. Radical democrats, republicans, federalists and secularists will wage a battle for survival to protect existing achievements.
On Oct 28, 2012, the retired judges of Supreme Court have suggested to go for fresh CA election rather than to opt for the revival of CA.
Read more
सुरक्षित समाधान ः संविधानसभाको पुनःस्थापना | विविधा | :: कान्तिपुर ::
Longer the political uncertainty; more the complication
Prashant Jha writes, "Political forces are still
calculating who won and who lost with the dissolution of the CA without
the constitution being delivered. On the surface, it appears that the
Maoist-Madhesi coalition outsmarted the NC-UML combine by retaining the
government while not giving up on the federal agenda."
Read more...
Read more...
Is it worth fighting for right to self determination today?
The report submitted by Janajati members of UML party also urges the party to
ensure right to self-determination, autonomous governance and priority
rights of the marginalised communities. The document has put the party
leadership under confusion-whether to take action or to accept their
demands-in near future. The party has been rejecting to accept ethnic
federalism in the new constitution. My question is: Is it worth fighting for?
Read more
Read more
Friday, June 08, 2012
Where will divisive politics take the country?
In future, divisive politics is going to be a major problem in our country. Those political parties that use caste and religion as tools to come to power would plunge the country into darkness. The responsible parties should shun such tactics of politicking.
Envisioning Nepal
Envisioning Nepal 2030
24 June 2010. I attended a seminar today. The topic of the seminar was 'Envisioning Nepal 2030'--a kind on day dreaming. Several presentations were made on education, transportation, agriculture, security, science and technology, women empowerment, industry, and environment. Hard questionscame up during the sessions: How we are going to manage the education of children living in rural areas? There are 70 lakh children in the school level, only 3 lakh of them can be accommodated in higher education. What is going to happen to other 67 lakh children? Is our education system capable of helping individuals stand up independently? Which classes of people are contributing more in the national economy (government says that the main source of national economy is said to be remittance) the highly educated or the labor force working abroad? Why are we not competitive in the global market? Why there is no business community and university collaboration? Are road infrastructures helping development or destroying tourism? How much expenditure on security apparatus is enough? What arethe alternatives? How we are going to cope with the global warming? etc.As for the security aspects I shared my thoughts that we need to socialize the security system not just reform security sector. For this, we need to start giving education on peace and security right from the primary level.
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 9:21 AM 0 comments
24 June 2010. I attended a seminar today. The topic of the seminar was 'Envisioning Nepal 2030'--a kind on day dreaming. Several presentations were made on education, transportation, agriculture, security, science and technology, women empowerment, industry, and environment. Hard questionscame up during the sessions: How we are going to manage the education of children living in rural areas? There are 70 lakh children in the school level, only 3 lakh of them can be accommodated in higher education. What is going to happen to other 67 lakh children? Is our education system capable of helping individuals stand up independently? Which classes of people are contributing more in the national economy (government says that the main source of national economy is said to be remittance) the highly educated or the labor force working abroad? Why are we not competitive in the global market? Why there is no business community and university collaboration? Are road infrastructures helping development or destroying tourism? How much expenditure on security apparatus is enough? What arethe alternatives? How we are going to cope with the global warming? etc.As for the security aspects I shared my thoughts that we need to socialize the security system not just reform security sector. For this, we need to start giving education on peace and security right from the primary level.
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 9:21 AM 0 comments
Magar Associations having more than necessary office buildings
Dear Thapa,
Thanks for writing us. We are located at Satdobato, Lalitpur--just nearby Magar Samaj Sewa Kendra office of Lalitpur Municipality. Please specify as to the kind of studies you are in and the nature of help that you would seek from us. We shall be happy to help you in this noble cause.
msc
Magarson Thapa IBSKC wrote:
Hello there
This is Raja Magar Thapa from Chakrapath. I am an accountant by trade. Plus,
I am an avaid reader of Magar history and all that. Was just wondering if
you would be able to help me out in certain research activities.
I have met a stonewall of paucity of documents regarding my quest in
learning more about Magar history. However, I am quite hopeful that you guy
would be a tremendous help to me.
Tell me! where you guys are located. I will contact you. Alternatively, I
would be very happy to hear from you.
Best wishes.
Raja Magar Thapa
E mail: magarsonthapa@hotmail.com
Tel: 4720222
Chakrapath
Kathmandu
Fri, 9 Jul 2004 19:41:02 -0700 (PDT)
From: "MSC" View Contact Details
Subject: Construction of office buildings for Magar institutions
To: "Magar sangh Kathmandu"
Dear PJji,
Many thanks for sharing the information. To have a separate building of your own is good idea. I know Magar Sangh Central Committee is also trying to build one for them. Magar Samaj Sewa Kendra of Lalitpur is also trying for that. MSC would try for that in future. Lalitpur district committee may also do the same thing. That means there will be many buildings of Magars. Wow great!!! But how many such buildings do we actually need for Magar institutions inside Kathmandu valley? Is not one enough? Can not we be accomodated in the same building with common facilities of seminar halls, parking lot, security, offices etc? I am in favour of this type of management. I think this would be the best way of managing our resources which are constantly reducing. Building a house may be easy for some but maintenance of such facilities become problems. Then they become a sort of liability rather than facilities. Lets all think seriously about it. I am sending this message to many other Magar bandhus for your valuable suggestions. Thanks.
With best wishes.
Dr. GPThapa
Magar sangh Kathmandu wrote:
Dear All
I'm out of KTM since 30th of June to 19th July in some
sensitive western districts of Nepal. While leaving
KTM our friend were massively involved on home visit
program with mission of building Community home of
Magar Sangh Kathmandu district. For this year our plan
is to purchassase land within Mangshir.
My visit districts are Mugu (Rara lake), Bardiya,
Jumla, Surkhet and Banke (Nepalgunj). I have completed
visit to Mugu and Bardiya but Jumla has not been able
to visit due to weather / flight. Rara Lake I found
one of very nice place to visit. May be I will share
videos some time. See you
Padam J Thapa Magar
Thanks for writing us. We are located at Satdobato, Lalitpur--just nearby Magar Samaj Sewa Kendra office of Lalitpur Municipality. Please specify as to the kind of studies you are in and the nature of help that you would seek from us. We shall be happy to help you in this noble cause.
msc
Magarson Thapa IBSKC wrote:
Hello there
This is Raja Magar Thapa from Chakrapath. I am an accountant by trade. Plus,
I am an avaid reader of Magar history and all that. Was just wondering if
you would be able to help me out in certain research activities.
I have met a stonewall of paucity of documents regarding my quest in
learning more about Magar history. However, I am quite hopeful that you guy
would be a tremendous help to me.
Tell me! where you guys are located. I will contact you. Alternatively, I
would be very happy to hear from you.
Best wishes.
Raja Magar Thapa
E mail: magarsonthapa@hotmail.com
Tel: 4720222
Chakrapath
Kathmandu
Fri, 9 Jul 2004 19:41:02 -0700 (PDT)
From: "MSC" View Contact Details
Subject: Construction of office buildings for Magar institutions
To: "Magar sangh Kathmandu"
Dear PJji,
Many thanks for sharing the information. To have a separate building of your own is good idea. I know Magar Sangh Central Committee is also trying to build one for them. Magar Samaj Sewa Kendra of Lalitpur is also trying for that. MSC would try for that in future. Lalitpur district committee may also do the same thing. That means there will be many buildings of Magars. Wow great!!! But how many such buildings do we actually need for Magar institutions inside Kathmandu valley? Is not one enough? Can not we be accomodated in the same building with common facilities of seminar halls, parking lot, security, offices etc? I am in favour of this type of management. I think this would be the best way of managing our resources which are constantly reducing. Building a house may be easy for some but maintenance of such facilities become problems. Then they become a sort of liability rather than facilities. Lets all think seriously about it. I am sending this message to many other Magar bandhus for your valuable suggestions. Thanks.
With best wishes.
Dr. GPThapa
Magar sangh Kathmandu wrote:
Dear All
I'm out of KTM since 30th of June to 19th July in some
sensitive western districts of Nepal. While leaving
KTM our friend were massively involved on home visit
program with mission of building Community home of
Magar Sangh Kathmandu district. For this year our plan
is to purchassase land within Mangshir.
My visit districts are Mugu (Rara lake), Bardiya,
Jumla, Surkhet and Banke (Nepalgunj). I have completed
visit to Mugu and Bardiya but Jumla has not been able
to visit due to weather / flight. Rara Lake I found
one of very nice place to visit. May be I will share
videos some time. See you
Padam J Thapa Magar
History of Brigade of Gurkhas
History of the Brigade of Gurkhas
THE BEGINNING - GURKHAS, NEPAL AND THE EAST INDIA COMPANY
Robert Clive's decisive victory at the Battle of Plassey in 1757 firmly established British supremacy in India thereby opening the door for expansion of the Honourable East India Company. Some 10 years after Plassey the British started to come into contact with a unique and vigorous power on the northern borders of its newly won territories in Bengal and Bihar.
This power was the city-state of Gorkha led by its dynamic King Prithwi Narayan Shah. Gorkha was a feudal hill village in what is now western Nepal, the village from which the Gurkha takes his name. Prithwi Narayan Shah and his successors grew so powerful that they overan the whole of the hill country from the Kashmir border in the west to Bhutan in the east. Eventually, as a result of boundary disputes and repeated raids by Gurkha columns into British territory, the Governor General declared war on Nepal in 1814.
After two long and bloody campaigns a Peace Treaty was signed at Sugauli in 1816.
During the war a deep feeling of mutual respect and admiration had developed between the British and their adversaries, the British being much impressed by the fighting and other qualities of the Gurkha soldier. Under the terms of the Peace Treaty large numbers of Gurkhas were permitted to volunteer for service in the East India Company's Army. From these volunteers were formed the first regiments of the Gurkha Brigade, and from this time stems Britain's friendship with Nepal, a country which has proved a staunch ally ever since and has become our 'oldest ally' in Asia.
Never has the trust that was then placed in the Gurkha soldier ever been in doubt. Alongside his British comrade in arms he has fought in many parts of the world and has proved himself to be of the closest of friends and bravest of allies that Britain has known.
'Keeping the Peace' in India under the British flag began for Gurkha soldiers with the Pindaree War in 1817, and the first battle honour gained by Gurkha troops was at Bhurtpore in 1826. The two senior regiments distinguished themselves in the hard fought battles of the 1st Sikh War in 1846, and six regiments of the Nepalese Army were offered to the East India Company for service in the 2nd Sikh War of 1848.
In the Indian Mutiny of 1857-1858 the 2nd Goorkhas showed striking proof of their loyalty at Delhi where, together with the 60th Rifles (now part of The Rifles), they held Hindu Rao's house, the key to the British position which was under continuous fire from the mutineers, for over three months. During this period the 2nd Goorkhas suffered 327 casualties (including 8 of their 9 British Officers) out of a total strength of 490. Also during the mutiny, 12 Nepalese Army Regiments, a force of 8,000 men under the personal leadership of the Prime Minister of Nepal, took part in the final relief of Lucknow.
AFTER THE EAST INDIA COMPANY
Throughout the next 50 years there was much active service in Burma, Afghanistan, the North-East and the North-West Frontiers of India, Malta, Cyprus, Malaya, China (the Boxer Rebellion of 1900) and Tibet (Young husband's Expedition of 1904).
source:http://www.army.mod.uk/gurkhas/7557.aspx
THE BEGINNING - GURKHAS, NEPAL AND THE EAST INDIA COMPANY
Robert Clive's decisive victory at the Battle of Plassey in 1757 firmly established British supremacy in India thereby opening the door for expansion of the Honourable East India Company. Some 10 years after Plassey the British started to come into contact with a unique and vigorous power on the northern borders of its newly won territories in Bengal and Bihar.
This power was the city-state of Gorkha led by its dynamic King Prithwi Narayan Shah. Gorkha was a feudal hill village in what is now western Nepal, the village from which the Gurkha takes his name. Prithwi Narayan Shah and his successors grew so powerful that they overan the whole of the hill country from the Kashmir border in the west to Bhutan in the east. Eventually, as a result of boundary disputes and repeated raids by Gurkha columns into British territory, the Governor General declared war on Nepal in 1814.
After two long and bloody campaigns a Peace Treaty was signed at Sugauli in 1816.
During the war a deep feeling of mutual respect and admiration had developed between the British and their adversaries, the British being much impressed by the fighting and other qualities of the Gurkha soldier. Under the terms of the Peace Treaty large numbers of Gurkhas were permitted to volunteer for service in the East India Company's Army. From these volunteers were formed the first regiments of the Gurkha Brigade, and from this time stems Britain's friendship with Nepal, a country which has proved a staunch ally ever since and has become our 'oldest ally' in Asia.
Never has the trust that was then placed in the Gurkha soldier ever been in doubt. Alongside his British comrade in arms he has fought in many parts of the world and has proved himself to be of the closest of friends and bravest of allies that Britain has known.
'Keeping the Peace' in India under the British flag began for Gurkha soldiers with the Pindaree War in 1817, and the first battle honour gained by Gurkha troops was at Bhurtpore in 1826. The two senior regiments distinguished themselves in the hard fought battles of the 1st Sikh War in 1846, and six regiments of the Nepalese Army were offered to the East India Company for service in the 2nd Sikh War of 1848.
In the Indian Mutiny of 1857-1858 the 2nd Goorkhas showed striking proof of their loyalty at Delhi where, together with the 60th Rifles (now part of The Rifles), they held Hindu Rao's house, the key to the British position which was under continuous fire from the mutineers, for over three months. During this period the 2nd Goorkhas suffered 327 casualties (including 8 of their 9 British Officers) out of a total strength of 490. Also during the mutiny, 12 Nepalese Army Regiments, a force of 8,000 men under the personal leadership of the Prime Minister of Nepal, took part in the final relief of Lucknow.
AFTER THE EAST INDIA COMPANY
Throughout the next 50 years there was much active service in Burma, Afghanistan, the North-East and the North-West Frontiers of India, Malta, Cyprus, Malaya, China (the Boxer Rebellion of 1900) and Tibet (Young husband's Expedition of 1904).
source:http://www.army.mod.uk/gurkhas/7557.aspx
CA election 2008
Monday, April 14, 2008
The Constituent Assembly Election 2008
14 Apr 2008
The long awaited Constituent Assembly election was held on 10 April 2008. The relatively peaceful manner and high turnout (more than 65%) in which this election was held was quite a surprise for me and many others amidst clouds of expectations for violence. Then, the first figures of poll results were even more surprising and unexpected. The major political parties—Nepali Congress and United Marxist Leninist (UML)—received heavy blows. Their heavyweights were flattened one-after-another. So far, the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) has bagged more than fifty percent of announced seats—102 out of 185. There are still results of 138 seats yet to be announced. Now there is a big speculation over the reasons/factors for such a landslide victory. Some of them are:
Vote rigging—but the national/international observers gave a clean report
Fear psychology—the voters did not find any other alternatives to protect themselves in the event of attack and violence by Maoists after the election—it is assumed that they were threatened earlier for dire consequences
Election manifesto/program—more appealing to the voters
Longing for peace—the voters were afraid that if the Maoists were defeated in the election they would go back to the jungle
Longing for change—voters were just looking for overall changes and they felt that only Maoists could bring the change, therefore, they discarded the "veterans"
It is still too early to say definitely about the reasons/factors. Whatever they may be, one truth is very clear—WE WERE VERY FAR AWAY FROM THE GROUND REALITY. Therefore, the results are unexpected and surprising.
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 4:06 PM 0 comments
The Constituent Assembly Election 2008
14 Apr 2008
The long awaited Constituent Assembly election was held on 10 April 2008. The relatively peaceful manner and high turnout (more than 65%) in which this election was held was quite a surprise for me and many others amidst clouds of expectations for violence. Then, the first figures of poll results were even more surprising and unexpected. The major political parties—Nepali Congress and United Marxist Leninist (UML)—received heavy blows. Their heavyweights were flattened one-after-another. So far, the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) has bagged more than fifty percent of announced seats—102 out of 185. There are still results of 138 seats yet to be announced. Now there is a big speculation over the reasons/factors for such a landslide victory. Some of them are:
Vote rigging—but the national/international observers gave a clean report
Fear psychology—the voters did not find any other alternatives to protect themselves in the event of attack and violence by Maoists after the election—it is assumed that they were threatened earlier for dire consequences
Election manifesto/program—more appealing to the voters
Longing for peace—the voters were afraid that if the Maoists were defeated in the election they would go back to the jungle
Longing for change—voters were just looking for overall changes and they felt that only Maoists could bring the change, therefore, they discarded the "veterans"
It is still too early to say definitely about the reasons/factors. Whatever they may be, one truth is very clear—WE WERE VERY FAR AWAY FROM THE GROUND REALITY. Therefore, the results are unexpected and surprising.
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 4:06 PM 0 comments
New national anthem
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
National Anthem
After the historic victory of people over king’s rule, many things are in the offing. One such is National Anthem, Rashtriya Gaan. There is a proposed national anthem written by Riddhipani Gautam in Kantipur, 17 May 2006, page 7. If this song becomes our national anthem, I am sure many of us would not own it and would not sing it. The reasons for this is firstly, the words are very difficult to read and sing, and secondly, there are names, which lead one to think and accept that the country of this national anthem is a predominantly Hindu state. It totally neglects and forgets that there are other holy places than that of Hindu only and that Nepal is a multi-ethnic, multi-religious, multi-cultural and multi-lingual country. Some of the examples of such elaborations are:
Pashupati rakchhit Nepal…Muktinath le mukti dine…sajiva Kumari, Naradevi, Dakchhinkali alaukik shaktipeeth….Swargadwari le swarga sulavpath pradarshak…
If you go through the whole text of the proposed anthem, you will agree with me that this cannot be our rashtriya gaan at all. Therefore, why not we write national anthem, which would arouse the national patriotism equally amongst all Nepali, and which would be acceptable and owned by all Nepali. I am sure there are many who can do this. Moreover, why not write our opinions on this issue in the letter to the editor of Kantipur. Those who are interested may kindly write to kanti@kantipur.com.np
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 9:51 AM 0 comments
National Anthem
After the historic victory of people over king’s rule, many things are in the offing. One such is National Anthem, Rashtriya Gaan. There is a proposed national anthem written by Riddhipani Gautam in Kantipur, 17 May 2006, page 7. If this song becomes our national anthem, I am sure many of us would not own it and would not sing it. The reasons for this is firstly, the words are very difficult to read and sing, and secondly, there are names, which lead one to think and accept that the country of this national anthem is a predominantly Hindu state. It totally neglects and forgets that there are other holy places than that of Hindu only and that Nepal is a multi-ethnic, multi-religious, multi-cultural and multi-lingual country. Some of the examples of such elaborations are:
Pashupati rakchhit Nepal…Muktinath le mukti dine…sajiva Kumari, Naradevi, Dakchhinkali alaukik shaktipeeth….Swargadwari le swarga sulavpath pradarshak…
If you go through the whole text of the proposed anthem, you will agree with me that this cannot be our rashtriya gaan at all. Therefore, why not we write national anthem, which would arouse the national patriotism equally amongst all Nepali, and which would be acceptable and owned by all Nepali. I am sure there are many who can do this. Moreover, why not write our opinions on this issue in the letter to the editor of Kantipur. Those who are interested may kindly write to kanti@kantipur.com.np
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 9:51 AM 0 comments
Seminar on CA in 2006
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Seminar on Constituent Assembly
Magar Studies Center organized one day seminar on “Constitution Assembly and Restructuring of State” on 22nd July 2006 in Kathmandu. Two theme papers were presented on this occasion. Mr. Kashiraj Dahal’s paper dealt with the experiences of more than hundred countries in constitution making. Mr Malla K. Sundar elaborated on the views of indigenous and ethnic people of Nepal. Chairman of Magar Sangh also stressed upon some of the demands of Magars. Eminent personalities- professors, scholars, politicians, social activists and people from other walks of life attended it. Dr. Govind Prasad Thapa, Chairperson of the Center, chaired and moderated the session.
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 8:29 AM 0 comments
Seminar on Constituent Assembly
Magar Studies Center organized one day seminar on “Constitution Assembly and Restructuring of State” on 22nd July 2006 in Kathmandu. Two theme papers were presented on this occasion. Mr. Kashiraj Dahal’s paper dealt with the experiences of more than hundred countries in constitution making. Mr Malla K. Sundar elaborated on the views of indigenous and ethnic people of Nepal. Chairman of Magar Sangh also stressed upon some of the demands of Magars. Eminent personalities- professors, scholars, politicians, social activists and people from other walks of life attended it. Dr. Govind Prasad Thapa, Chairperson of the Center, chaired and moderated the session.
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 8:29 AM 0 comments
My felicitations on Jan Andolan II
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
My felicitations
Dear all Nepali bandhus,
My warm and hearty felicitations and congratulations to all Nepali people. The people have again proved that they are powerful and they can usher-in changes peacefully, no matter of what magnitude, without resorting to any arms and violent means. Though, it is time to be delirious with joy, yet there are many important tasks ahead to be carried out with utmost diligence and precision. Amongst imminent of them, we have to solve insurgency problem and re-establish peace and harmony, and we have to transform national diversities into opportunities and strengths by arousing and establishing feelings of ownership and patriotism, and commitment, among every single citizen, towards the nation and the national integrity. Let not the joys and excitement of people die and turn into bitter regret and anguish again with the passage of time. Let us hope that the peoples’dreams turn into a reality and that now Nepal moves forward--and forward only--to its ultimate destination of peaceful, prosperous, and greater Nepal.
Dr. Govind Prasad Thapa12 Baisakh 2063/25 April 2006
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 2:11 PM 1 comments
My felicitations
Dear all Nepali bandhus,
My warm and hearty felicitations and congratulations to all Nepali people. The people have again proved that they are powerful and they can usher-in changes peacefully, no matter of what magnitude, without resorting to any arms and violent means. Though, it is time to be delirious with joy, yet there are many important tasks ahead to be carried out with utmost diligence and precision. Amongst imminent of them, we have to solve insurgency problem and re-establish peace and harmony, and we have to transform national diversities into opportunities and strengths by arousing and establishing feelings of ownership and patriotism, and commitment, among every single citizen, towards the nation and the national integrity. Let not the joys and excitement of people die and turn into bitter regret and anguish again with the passage of time. Let us hope that the peoples’dreams turn into a reality and that now Nepal moves forward--and forward only--to its ultimate destination of peaceful, prosperous, and greater Nepal.
Dr. Govind Prasad Thapa12 Baisakh 2063/25 April 2006
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 2:11 PM 1 comments
Constitution assembly and constitution
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Constituent Assembly and Constitution
The meeting of Magar Sangh Central Committee has decided to form a Working Committee to prepare a concept paper on CA and Constitutional changes. I am the convener. Other members of the Committee are Trilok Singh Thapa, Sangini Rana, and Bhoj Bikram Budha. We had first round meeting today. Almost all Magar Studies Center members and many other Magar intellectuals were present. We have decided to prepare the paper on the following headings:
-Listing the key Magar issues/Major concerns of Magars to be addressed
-Interim Constitution
-Constituent Assembly
-Constitution re-writing
You are kindly requested to send in any type of information or your opinion on these subjects. We hope to present this paper within few weeks time in one of the seminar and then hand over to Magar Sangh.
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 8:21 AM 0 comments
Constituent Assembly and Constitution
The meeting of Magar Sangh Central Committee has decided to form a Working Committee to prepare a concept paper on CA and Constitutional changes. I am the convener. Other members of the Committee are Trilok Singh Thapa, Sangini Rana, and Bhoj Bikram Budha. We had first round meeting today. Almost all Magar Studies Center members and many other Magar intellectuals were present. We have decided to prepare the paper on the following headings:
-Listing the key Magar issues/Major concerns of Magars to be addressed
-Interim Constitution
-Constituent Assembly
-Constitution re-writing
You are kindly requested to send in any type of information or your opinion on these subjects. We hope to present this paper within few weeks time in one of the seminar and then hand over to Magar Sangh.
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 8:21 AM 0 comments
Towards peace
Towards peace
The Maoist insurgents have declared unilateral ceasefire on 3rd September 2005. But the government has not done so yet. The government has failed to recognize the demand of the people for peace. In this way the government has politically failed to grab the advantage of the opportunity of re-establishing its faith and image inside and outside the country. The government should have welcomed Maoist’s move and further appealed for everlasting peace by calling and preparing for talks and negotiations.
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 10:01 AM 0 comments
The Maoist insurgents have declared unilateral ceasefire on 3rd September 2005. But the government has not done so yet. The government has failed to recognize the demand of the people for peace. In this way the government has politically failed to grab the advantage of the opportunity of re-establishing its faith and image inside and outside the country. The government should have welcomed Maoist’s move and further appealed for everlasting peace by calling and preparing for talks and negotiations.
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 10:01 AM 0 comments
First peace and then election
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
First peace then election
The main objective of having elections is to elect a representative or a political leader for the government in a free and fair manner. When there are no freedom to choose, when there are no good candidates or parties, and when there are no voters to vote then such election is no election; it is a folly. The basic prerequisites for election are the conducive situation prevailed by law and order, majority of voters, and candidates or the political parties. Therefore the first thing we need to do is to fulfill these preconditions. Let us have first peace then elections.
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 10:06 AM 1 comments
First peace then election
The main objective of having elections is to elect a representative or a political leader for the government in a free and fair manner. When there are no freedom to choose, when there are no good candidates or parties, and when there are no voters to vote then such election is no election; it is a folly. The basic prerequisites for election are the conducive situation prevailed by law and order, majority of voters, and candidates or the political parties. Therefore the first thing we need to do is to fulfill these preconditions. Let us have first peace then elections.
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 10:06 AM 1 comments
Prerequisites of elections
Thursday, October 20, 2005
Prerequisites of elections
18 Oct 2005. The local municipality elections are scheduled to be held in Magh of this year and the general election for parliament has been slated by the end of next year i.e. end of Chaitra 2063. Sounds good! But the pertinent questions are: will these elections solve all the current political problems? Are we not going to resolve down imminent things before these elections? Two key issues remain to be addressed before these elections--the re-establishment of peace by prevailing law and order, and restructuring of the political system. What about the inclusive type of political system that we have been talking lately? And what about the proportionate representative election system associated with these issues? Don’t you think that these are prerequisites to any elections if we really wish to settle things once for all?
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 9:21 PM 1 comments
Prerequisites of elections
18 Oct 2005. The local municipality elections are scheduled to be held in Magh of this year and the general election for parliament has been slated by the end of next year i.e. end of Chaitra 2063. Sounds good! But the pertinent questions are: will these elections solve all the current political problems? Are we not going to resolve down imminent things before these elections? Two key issues remain to be addressed before these elections--the re-establishment of peace by prevailing law and order, and restructuring of the political system. What about the inclusive type of political system that we have been talking lately? And what about the proportionate representative election system associated with these issues? Don’t you think that these are prerequisites to any elections if we really wish to settle things once for all?
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 9:21 PM 1 comments
Dedication for mankind
Monday, December 19, 2005
Dedication for mankind
14.12.2005. I attended the marriage ceremony of one of the orphan girls nursed, brought up, educated and solemnized as bride by Indira Rana Magar, Chair person of Prisoners Assistance Nepal. This girl was abandoned by her parents. This organization has been rescuing innocent children from prisons who had to live inside the jails with their convicted parents with out their own faults. Indira had established this organization five years ago. PA Nepal’s mission is to rid prisoners of unnecessary suffering and hardship, in particular the suffering experienced by innocent children and prisoners who are poor and disadvantaged. It wants to help transform prisons into places that work to help prisoners build worthwhile and rewarding futures.
There are fifty five children in her home at present. She is the mother of all these children. Indira was recently awarded Ashoka Fellowship for her dedication and devotion to her love and care for helpless children. She was also awarded Top Fifty Women of Nepal Award. She is also running a primary school for poor and orphan children. Her organization is entirely dependent on the donations of friends and supporters- not on any INGO. Looking at her determination, hard work and dedication, I felt myself very much selfish and petite in front of this great lady who has sacrificed her happiness and whole life for the sake of poor and needy children. My regards and best wishes to such a leader.
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 8:37 AM 1 comments
Dedication for mankind
14.12.2005. I attended the marriage ceremony of one of the orphan girls nursed, brought up, educated and solemnized as bride by Indira Rana Magar, Chair person of Prisoners Assistance Nepal. This girl was abandoned by her parents. This organization has been rescuing innocent children from prisons who had to live inside the jails with their convicted parents with out their own faults. Indira had established this organization five years ago. PA Nepal’s mission is to rid prisoners of unnecessary suffering and hardship, in particular the suffering experienced by innocent children and prisoners who are poor and disadvantaged. It wants to help transform prisons into places that work to help prisoners build worthwhile and rewarding futures.
There are fifty five children in her home at present. She is the mother of all these children. Indira was recently awarded Ashoka Fellowship for her dedication and devotion to her love and care for helpless children. She was also awarded Top Fifty Women of Nepal Award. She is also running a primary school for poor and orphan children. Her organization is entirely dependent on the donations of friends and supporters- not on any INGO. Looking at her determination, hard work and dedication, I felt myself very much selfish and petite in front of this great lady who has sacrificed her happiness and whole life for the sake of poor and needy children. My regards and best wishes to such a leader.
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 8:37 AM 1 comments
Ethnicisation: A concern of all
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
Ethnisation: A concern of all
There was a seminar in Nepal (some seven-eight months before) ranging around the issues of the need, attempts, popularity of ethnicizing discourses in contemporary Nepal, the diversity of stakeholders and of their discourses on ethnicity, the shift of the'ethnic paradigm' during the last 15 years, ethnisation and its consequences, and ethnisation and de-ethnisation in Nepal's past. I understand that these types of discourses are definitely going to reinforce the mutual understanding, developing strategies, policies, and programs for the development and improvement of nationalities in and outside the country. The important fact that I would like to reiterate to be considered is these issues should not be the issues of ethnic minorities only but also of majorities. Therefore any attempts to be taken to development and improvement should be participative, inclusive-- accommodating all stakeholders.
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 3:24 PM 0 comments
Ethnisation: A concern of all
There was a seminar in Nepal (some seven-eight months before) ranging around the issues of the need, attempts, popularity of ethnicizing discourses in contemporary Nepal, the diversity of stakeholders and of their discourses on ethnicity, the shift of the'ethnic paradigm' during the last 15 years, ethnisation and its consequences, and ethnisation and de-ethnisation in Nepal's past. I understand that these types of discourses are definitely going to reinforce the mutual understanding, developing strategies, policies, and programs for the development and improvement of nationalities in and outside the country. The important fact that I would like to reiterate to be considered is these issues should not be the issues of ethnic minorities only but also of majorities. Therefore any attempts to be taken to development and improvement should be participative, inclusive-- accommodating all stakeholders.
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 3:24 PM 0 comments
Stand on your feet
Friday, January 06, 2006
Stand on your feet
One should not be carried away by the whiffs and moods of others. We should not be the toy for others' amusement.People respond to promises and threats. One has to attain capacities--the power-- to promise or threaten. There are, of course, two ways of getting those capacities or power--peaceful or bloodshed. We all know by now that violence does even the justice unjustly. It is during the hours of frustration that one commits more serious mistakes. Therefore there is a need for caution and wisdom to pursue strategically, tactically and technically with speed(we are too slow to act by ourselves and bank heavily on others to do something for us).
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 11:04 AM 0 comments
Stand on your feet
One should not be carried away by the whiffs and moods of others. We should not be the toy for others' amusement.People respond to promises and threats. One has to attain capacities--the power-- to promise or threaten. There are, of course, two ways of getting those capacities or power--peaceful or bloodshed. We all know by now that violence does even the justice unjustly. It is during the hours of frustration that one commits more serious mistakes. Therefore there is a need for caution and wisdom to pursue strategically, tactically and technically with speed(we are too slow to act by ourselves and bank heavily on others to do something for us).
Posted by Dr. GP Thapa at 11:04 AM 0 comments
Kham Pang-Nepali-English dictionary
MSC supported the publication of Kham Pang-Nepali-English dictionary sometime back. Although this piece of work is a small step, yet it will be a landmark in the protection of Magar language. It will be instrumental for researchers, linguists, and persons interested in the linguistics.I have sent complimentary copies of the work to various institutions.
Sunday, 19 June 2005
Insclusiveness is the issue of Janajati and other marginalized communities
Thursday, May 5, 2005
We have been talking. writing, doing numerous activities for the inclusiveness of Janajatis into the mainstream of national politics and state machinery. Lot have already been accomplished and many are still far away. The relentless efforts will ultimately bring results. But only wishing will not suffice. We should not be passive in the change process. We shall have to work hard to bring changes. Hard working is still a lot far away from our agenda. I was wondering whether we (Magar Studies Center) should include other jati and janajatis in our area of concern. So that it becomes a center for the research and studies of the history, culture, socioeconomic issues of the people of Nepal- not only of Magar. This has become necessary in the light of the broad vision that is to be envisioned than be limited to a very limited scope of studies. If we have to look for anything related to Magar we have to go through the whole list of literature written and available on Nepal and Nepali. If it is so then why not include other jat-jatis (castes).
We have been talking. writing, doing numerous activities for the inclusiveness of Janajatis into the mainstream of national politics and state machinery. Lot have already been accomplished and many are still far away. The relentless efforts will ultimately bring results. But only wishing will not suffice. We should not be passive in the change process. We shall have to work hard to bring changes. Hard working is still a lot far away from our agenda. I was wondering whether we (Magar Studies Center) should include other jati and janajatis in our area of concern. So that it becomes a center for the research and studies of the history, culture, socioeconomic issues of the people of Nepal- not only of Magar. This has become necessary in the light of the broad vision that is to be envisioned than be limited to a very limited scope of studies. If we have to look for anything related to Magar we have to go through the whole list of literature written and available on Nepal and Nepali. If it is so then why not include other jat-jatis (castes).
Who was king Mani Mukunda Sen?
Sunday, 17.4.2005
According to Eden Vansittart, in The Gurkhas, (p. 15-16) “ The sixth and last king of this dynasty, by name of Hari Deva, had at this time ( about 1100 A.D.) a Magar in his service, who through the machinations of the ministers, was dismissed. This man returned to his home and praised Nepal as having houses with golden roofs and golden pranalis or dharas. The Magar Raja, by name Mukunda Sena, a brave and powerful monarch, having heard of this, came to Nepal from the west with a large number of mounted troops, and subdued Hari Deva, the son of Rama Sinha Deva.”
[This is based on the ‘Notes on Gurkhas’ and ‘Notes on Nepal’ of Eden Vansittart written in 1890 and published in 1895]
Similarly, John T. Hitchcock in his The Magars of Banyan Hill( p. 4 ) writes, “…….it was in this southern area, anciently called the Bara Mangranth, that Magar first made their appearance in written history. During the twelfth century, they sacked the Kathmandu Valley that long had been the seat of urban, civilized culture in Nepal.” [This is based on the study conducted in 1960-62 by the writer]
According to Rajaram Subedi in Baisi Rajyako Etihasik Ruprekha Mukunda Sen was a Thakuri. P. 38
According to Dr. Jagdish Chandra Regmi in his Nepalko Baidhanik Parampara Mani Mukunda Sen was a Thakuri king who ruled in 1540-1575 AD.
According to Francis Buchanan Hamilton in his An Account of the Kingdom of Nepal and of the terroteries annexed to this dominion by the House of Gurkhas(first published in 1819) Mukunda Send was a Thakuri king who came from Chitaur.
---------------------------------------
BK Rana on Mani Mukunda Sen------
1) According to Bal Chandra Sharma [Aitihasik Ruprekha] > Ratna Sen was the last King of Chhitaurgarh, Rajasthan, India.
2) His oldest son Jaya Sen fled and took shelter in Prayag. Jaya Sen’s descendants while chased by the Muslims arrived ‘Rib+di+kot’, neighboring kingdom of Palpa via Butwal ,Rishing and Ghiring. [ Magar Kings are cited as ‘Bhure Takure Rajas’ by historians]
3) Sharma has also written that Rudra Sen defeated Palpali King. But who was that Palpali King ? There is no mentioning at all. Magars ? Unclear history !
4) Mukunda Sen is described as a Sen Magar in "Naradsmriti Granth" [Keshar Library, Kathmandu]. He had attacked Kathmandu twice in 1521 BS. And in Chaitra 11, 1522 BS he annexed Kirtipur. Described as Magar Rajadhiraj Mukunda Sen.
5) Gopal Rajvanshavali also cites SENS as Magars. There are some Sen Magars in Nepal today.
6) KUSUNDA ORIGIN MYTH: Once upon a time there was a king who had three sons. Upon the death of the father the first son became king. But whatever he did everything came out to be bad. So the second son went and argued whatever you did that came out bad so you are no longer King. You live in the jungle begging and hunting. This is how the oldest son became Kusunda. The second son in turn became the king. Everything he did resulted in good. The king went to offer a pig to Chandi. He didn’t find people to kill the pig. The third son said ‘I will kill it’ and killed it. The descendants from third son became Magars. The descendants of the second son became Thakuris. [Influenced by Shikhar Nath Subedi’s “Thargotra Prabaravali” . It could be found in some bookshops in Bhotahiti, Kathmandu.
7) RAJTARANGINI : It is the oldest written authority for the history of various dynasties which ruled KASHMIR from the earliest period down to the time of the author who began to write his chronicle in SAKA YEAR 1070 [AD 1148 , BS 1204] Atha Aramudi iti prashiddha mayabi Nepaldeshasya Raja [Ad 782 -813] [Kasmireitihas pp99]. Prof. Raja Ram Subedi, and Prof. Jagadish Chandra Regmi believe Aramudi as Magar King of Kali Gandaki Area.
8) Maggwar Bishaya [Nepal Sambat 221 or BS 1157] Shree Dhanap Nayak Shree Shoab Rane. Mahesh Raj Panta and Aishowryadhar Sharma recognize him as RANA MAGAR. Dhan Bzra Bazrachayra and Mahesh Raj Pant recognize Shohab Rane as Rana Magar.
9) Dailekh District and ‘Virstambha’ memorial, Thapa Magars are cited suggesting that they were in great numbers. – Prof. Ram Niwas Panday believes Khas are descendants of Magars of Dullu Dailekh.
10) F. B. Hamilton, Dor Bahadur Bista, Rhisikesh Shah believe Kings as the Magars in cultural background. Eden Vansitart, Percival landon, Jhon Whelpton, Jiro kawakita, Brian H. Hodgson also have the same belief.
Sincerely,
BKR
BK Rana responds----------------------------
Dear Dr. Thapa,
Analyzing linguistic and cultural attributes of Magars of Palpa, some five years ago, I had written in a handout that Mukunda Sen could be a Magar by his ethnic identity. The handout was prepared in light of ongoing activism on Magar Identity for National Population Census of 2058.
Back in 2039 BS, I was for a week in Palpa Argali [Argauli] on an Intensive Agricultural Research Project conducted by APROSC/HMG Ministry of Agriculture. At that time, I had been able to meet with some Magars who claimed they were the descedants of King Mukunda Sen. They said "Mani' Mukunda Sen instead of Mukunda Sen.
Those Argali Magars appeared to me Mongoloid, strong built and tall, however, the naming of Sen kings are Sanskritized ones. Those Magars owned nice plots of irrigated land [Khet] in Palpa Argali.
Sometime later I had asked Surendra S. Ranaji who told those were different Magars, however, he did not elaborate what Magars are the Argali Magars actually.
One of the Kusunda origin myths also suggests that Magars and Thakuris [Sens, Shahs, Mallas] are brothers. I have not been able to find any mentioning of Sen king's in Kalhan's Rajtarangini.
The conventional wisdom on Sen Thakuris is 'Chhetris' but lacks any scientific foundation. Dor Bahadur Bista, in a meeting in 1992, had told me Magars and Thakuris are brothers. His book 'Fatalism and Development' may be reviewed. But, Dr. Hark Gurung takes Bista's elaboration otherwise.
Sincerely yours,
BKR
Magar Studies Center on Mani Mukunda Sen------------
"MSC" < wrote">magarstudiescenter@yahoo.com> wrote: - >From: MSC
To: MSC
Subject: Who was Mukunda Sen?
Date: Wed, 13 Apr 2005 05:31:19 -0700 (PDT)
Dear Magarbandhus,
On 12 Apr 2005 a music CD entitled "Maulakali Gaindakotai ma" was released. During the deliberations it was said that Mani Mukunda Sen, the King of Palpa, had once camped in Nawalparasi jungle. His soldiers installed the "Maula" to perform Puja to Kali deity. Since that time people have been worshiping in that temple. But the detail information about the King is missing. Who exactly was Mukunda Sen? Magar? Or Thakuri? Some available information on this issue contradicts each other.
Is there any Magarbandhu who knows about it? Please share. But be careful there are information available which may not be true or not fact based.
Happy new year and Happy Chaite Dasain.
Govind
According to Eden Vansittart, in The Gurkhas, (p. 15-16) “ The sixth and last king of this dynasty, by name of Hari Deva, had at this time ( about 1100 A.D.) a Magar in his service, who through the machinations of the ministers, was dismissed. This man returned to his home and praised Nepal as having houses with golden roofs and golden pranalis or dharas. The Magar Raja, by name Mukunda Sena, a brave and powerful monarch, having heard of this, came to Nepal from the west with a large number of mounted troops, and subdued Hari Deva, the son of Rama Sinha Deva.”
[This is based on the ‘Notes on Gurkhas’ and ‘Notes on Nepal’ of Eden Vansittart written in 1890 and published in 1895]
Similarly, John T. Hitchcock in his The Magars of Banyan Hill( p. 4 ) writes, “…….it was in this southern area, anciently called the Bara Mangranth, that Magar first made their appearance in written history. During the twelfth century, they sacked the Kathmandu Valley that long had been the seat of urban, civilized culture in Nepal.” [This is based on the study conducted in 1960-62 by the writer]
According to Rajaram Subedi in Baisi Rajyako Etihasik Ruprekha Mukunda Sen was a Thakuri. P. 38
According to Dr. Jagdish Chandra Regmi in his Nepalko Baidhanik Parampara Mani Mukunda Sen was a Thakuri king who ruled in 1540-1575 AD.
According to Francis Buchanan Hamilton in his An Account of the Kingdom of Nepal and of the terroteries annexed to this dominion by the House of Gurkhas(first published in 1819) Mukunda Send was a Thakuri king who came from Chitaur.
---------------------------------------
BK Rana on Mani Mukunda Sen------
1) According to Bal Chandra Sharma [Aitihasik Ruprekha] > Ratna Sen was the last King of Chhitaurgarh, Rajasthan, India.
2) His oldest son Jaya Sen fled and took shelter in Prayag. Jaya Sen’s descendants while chased by the Muslims arrived ‘Rib+di+kot’, neighboring kingdom of Palpa via Butwal ,Rishing and Ghiring. [ Magar Kings are cited as ‘Bhure Takure Rajas’ by historians]
3) Sharma has also written that Rudra Sen defeated Palpali King. But who was that Palpali King ? There is no mentioning at all. Magars ? Unclear history !
4) Mukunda Sen is described as a Sen Magar in "Naradsmriti Granth" [Keshar Library, Kathmandu]. He had attacked Kathmandu twice in 1521 BS. And in Chaitra 11, 1522 BS he annexed Kirtipur. Described as Magar Rajadhiraj Mukunda Sen.
5) Gopal Rajvanshavali also cites SENS as Magars. There are some Sen Magars in Nepal today.
6) KUSUNDA ORIGIN MYTH: Once upon a time there was a king who had three sons. Upon the death of the father the first son became king. But whatever he did everything came out to be bad. So the second son went and argued whatever you did that came out bad so you are no longer King. You live in the jungle begging and hunting. This is how the oldest son became Kusunda. The second son in turn became the king. Everything he did resulted in good. The king went to offer a pig to Chandi. He didn’t find people to kill the pig. The third son said ‘I will kill it’ and killed it. The descendants from third son became Magars. The descendants of the second son became Thakuris. [Influenced by Shikhar Nath Subedi’s “Thargotra Prabaravali” . It could be found in some bookshops in Bhotahiti, Kathmandu.
7) RAJTARANGINI : It is the oldest written authority for the history of various dynasties which ruled KASHMIR from the earliest period down to the time of the author who began to write his chronicle in SAKA YEAR 1070 [AD 1148 , BS 1204] Atha Aramudi iti prashiddha mayabi Nepaldeshasya Raja [Ad 782 -813] [Kasmireitihas pp99]. Prof. Raja Ram Subedi, and Prof. Jagadish Chandra Regmi believe Aramudi as Magar King of Kali Gandaki Area.
8) Maggwar Bishaya [Nepal Sambat 221 or BS 1157] Shree Dhanap Nayak Shree Shoab Rane. Mahesh Raj Panta and Aishowryadhar Sharma recognize him as RANA MAGAR. Dhan Bzra Bazrachayra and Mahesh Raj Pant recognize Shohab Rane as Rana Magar.
9) Dailekh District and ‘Virstambha’ memorial, Thapa Magars are cited suggesting that they were in great numbers. – Prof. Ram Niwas Panday believes Khas are descendants of Magars of Dullu Dailekh.
10) F. B. Hamilton, Dor Bahadur Bista, Rhisikesh Shah believe Kings as the Magars in cultural background. Eden Vansitart, Percival landon, Jhon Whelpton, Jiro kawakita, Brian H. Hodgson also have the same belief.
Sincerely,
BKR
BK Rana responds----------------------------
Dear Dr. Thapa,
Analyzing linguistic and cultural attributes of Magars of Palpa, some five years ago, I had written in a handout that Mukunda Sen could be a Magar by his ethnic identity. The handout was prepared in light of ongoing activism on Magar Identity for National Population Census of 2058.
Back in 2039 BS, I was for a week in Palpa Argali [Argauli] on an Intensive Agricultural Research Project conducted by APROSC/HMG Ministry of Agriculture. At that time, I had been able to meet with some Magars who claimed they were the descedants of King Mukunda Sen. They said "Mani' Mukunda Sen instead of Mukunda Sen.
Those Argali Magars appeared to me Mongoloid, strong built and tall, however, the naming of Sen kings are Sanskritized ones. Those Magars owned nice plots of irrigated land [Khet] in Palpa Argali.
Sometime later I had asked Surendra S. Ranaji who told those were different Magars, however, he did not elaborate what Magars are the Argali Magars actually.
One of the Kusunda origin myths also suggests that Magars and Thakuris [Sens, Shahs, Mallas] are brothers. I have not been able to find any mentioning of Sen king's in Kalhan's Rajtarangini.
The conventional wisdom on Sen Thakuris is 'Chhetris' but lacks any scientific foundation. Dor Bahadur Bista, in a meeting in 1992, had told me Magars and Thakuris are brothers. His book 'Fatalism and Development' may be reviewed. But, Dr. Hark Gurung takes Bista's elaboration otherwise.
Sincerely yours,
BKR
Magar Studies Center on Mani Mukunda Sen------------
"MSC" < wrote">magarstudiescenter@yahoo.com> wrote: - >From: MSC
To: MSC
Subject: Who was Mukunda Sen?
Date: Wed, 13 Apr 2005 05:31:19 -0700 (PDT)
Dear Magarbandhus,
On 12 Apr 2005 a music CD entitled "Maulakali Gaindakotai ma" was released. During the deliberations it was said that Mani Mukunda Sen, the King of Palpa, had once camped in Nawalparasi jungle. His soldiers installed the "Maula" to perform Puja to Kali deity. Since that time people have been worshiping in that temple. But the detail information about the King is missing. Who exactly was Mukunda Sen? Magar? Or Thakuri? Some available information on this issue contradicts each other.
Is there any Magarbandhu who knows about it? Please share. But be careful there are information available which may not be true or not fact based.
Happy new year and Happy Chaite Dasain.
Govind
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