Bahing in Nepal

Introduction / History

The Bahings are one of the Kirat peoples, a cluster of tribal peoples living in Nepal. They believe that they have lived on the same land for 9000 years.

Where Are they Located?

The Bahings live only in Nepal. Their homeland spans a couple of districts.

What Are Their Lives Like?

As a tribal people, the Bahing are vulnerable to changes imposed on them from outsiders. For this reason, there is the Bahing Kirat Mulukhim (BKM) to protect their rights from others who might try to take control of their traditional lands.

What Are Their Beliefs?

The Bahing in Nepal people practice Hinduism, the ancient religion of India. They worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. Hindus believe that by performing rituals and good works that they will attain moksha or freedom from the endless cycle of birth, death and rebirth. The Bahing visit Hindu temples and offer prayers, food, flowers, and incense to their gods in hopes of gaining protection and benefits. They do not have a personal or familial relationship with their gods like Christians or Jews. There are many forms of Hinduism, each with its own deities and beliefs.

The main yearly holidays of the Bahing people are Holi, the festival of colors and the start of spring / Diwali, the festival of lights / Navratri, the celebration of autumn / and Rama Navami, Rama's birthday.

What Are Their Needs?

The Bahing people need to learn skills that will help them adjust to the 21st century. It is only a matter of time before others take their land and leave them with nothing unless they are prepared with needed job skills.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to move among Bahing family in Nepal and community leaders to seek His face and enjoy His blessings.
Pray for the Lord to thrust out workers who will be compelled to nurture a disciple making movement among the Bahing people.
Pray that soon the Bahing people will have faith that is more precious and durable than gold.

Text Source:   Keith Carey