Rai People

The Rai people are one of Nepal’s oldest ethno-linguistic groups. They are in several ways similar to Limbus, and both groups were once part of the ancient kingdom of the Kirats. According to the 2001 census, Rai represent less than 3% of the populations but nevertheless possess a rich and unique cultural heritage. There are more than 32 recognized and distinct Rai dialects, which fall within the Tibeto-Burman family of languages. Rai were once part of the Lichhavi Kingdom, who rules the Himalayas before the Shahs from the 6th to 9th centuries, and therefore have a rich oral and written history that was almost destroyed when the Nepali monarchy came to power in the 18th century. Rai also practice an ancient religion similar to Bon that predates Buddhism and has been relatively isolated from mainstream Hindu dharma. Rai religion is based on ancestor worship and they possess an elaborate set of rituals dedicated to the veneration of their ancestors and deities, who are often personified as their primordial parents. Rai priests play important roles in these rituals, especially during Nwogi, their largest festival that takes place during harvest time