Mali Guthis are gradually expanding women’s roles
Summary
Women in the Mali community's Guthi system, traditionally confined to supportive roles, are gradually expanding their participation through committee memberships and ritual involvement, reflecting broader social changes in the Newar community.
Key Points
- The Mali community's Guthi system has historically been male-dominated with women confined to supportive roles in festivals and rituals.
- Constitutional provisions requiring at least 33 percent female representation have facilitated women's inclusion in Guthi committees.
- Women can now participate more actively, including playing ritual instruments and influencing decisions in Guthi committees.
- Resistance to women's expanded roles persists but is shrinking as social norms and caste boundaries within the community also evolve.
