Preservation of Tharu community’s Gram Than faces challenges
Summary
The Tharu community’s ancient Gram Than sites in Sunsari are facing threats from encroachment, neglect and the renaming of traditional sacred places. Community members warn that the loss of these sites could weaken their cultural identity and religious traditions.
Key Points
- Gram Than, a sacred site central to Tharu religious and cultural identity, is facing threats from encroachment and changes to its traditional name.
- Local voices say many Gram Than sites across Tharu villages have deteriorated because of weak conservation and state neglect.
- The community fears the renaming of sites such as Shikari Than, Dakin Than, Latidevi Than and Jabdi Than will erode cultural continuity.
