Mero Dhangadhi

Why are people only mentioning Bahuns/Chettri when it comes to the topic of privilege? The most privileged in Nepal are the Newars. They own the businesses, the whole trade. My school (one of the most reputed ones in Nepal) was almost completely Newari. When people think of Nepali culture, they FIRST think of Newari culture (Basantapur etc) Also Newars have their own clothes, dances, even an own language and a script which makes them very special and culturally high brow

Are you for real? Sounds like you clearly have prejudices against the Newari people that you need to sort out. Let’s break down your accusations:

People are mentioning Bahun and Chettris because well they are the part of the most privileged groups in all of Nepal. I don’t know if there are any other groups out there who are oppressing Bahuns and Chettris. Granted Newars are also fairly privileged (compared to many other ethnic groups) and hold many powerful positions in government and other fields, and do run many businesses. But you can’t look at groups of wealthy Newars and ignore everyone else and just go “look at all this privilege!!”. Broaden your mindset. There are various classes of Newars too, some of whom are painters and farmers and pottery makers etc etc. Not everyone owns businesses and “ the whole trade”.

“The most privileged in Nepal are the Newars” – this is laughable! Ever heard of the Royal family? The Shahs? The Ranas? Other high class semi Royal Chettris that have literally had control of majority of the country’s wealth, power and influence for many centuries??

“When people think of Nepali culture, they FIRST think of Newari culture (Basantapur etc)”. Okay? That’s great! The durbar squares around Kathmandu are magnificent and the Newars have made tremendous contribution to art and architecture which has made Nepal stand out in the world. Newars are indigenous to Kathmandu valley so their artwork is going to be well known by tourists and the international community as they are going to be found in Kathmandu. That’s my city’s heritage and it’s freaking awesome! I literally do not know what you expect or why you’re so upset by this? Of course they’re gonna have their own culture and dances and outfits. The fact that they still have all of these things to hold onto is remarkable. There have been many attempts in Nepal’s history to wipe out (maybe not completely) parts of other ethnic cultures by the monarchy and influence from India. Newari isn’t taught in majority of the schools as far as I know, and a lot of younger generation of Newars don’t know how to speak it. It’s listed as an endangered language by UNESCO. Sure they have their own script (Ranjana) but it was replaced by Devanagari from Sanskrit influences.

Wow look at all that privilege, right?!

( I’m not an expert on privilege. I tried to answer as best I could but I’m gonna need @unconventionalsouthasian @nhrsjw to take over and educate people please)