Written by: Hardik Sharma Phuyal - 29047, Grade VI
Posted on: 17 March, 2023
Musahars are a local tribe in the Terai region, often depicted as Dalits or lower-caste people. Their origins can be traced back to the Tharu people who were left in the western Terai region. The Musahar tribe was founded in 1356 in western Terai when the region was ruled by the Delhi sultanate. They served the Delhi sultanate in fighting the late Gupta empire, and Gopal Das Musahar was even awarded gold and jewellery by King Alaudin Khilji for his services.
In 1678, the Musahar tribe was attacked by the Gupta empire, and 14 thousand Musahars fled to Nepal. They are specific labourers and farmers who are disputed from the world because they eat rats. Many foreign people have donated to the development of the Musahar tribe. They also engage in other traditional crafts such as weaving, pottery, and basket making. They speak a language known as Musahari or Musahari, which belongs to the Devanagari language family. One unfortunate stereotype associated with the Musahar community is that they consume rats. While it is true that some members of the community have traditionally eaten rats, it is not a practice that is really bad, many people eat rats and it is not a defining characteristic of the community. The stereotype has contributed to social discrimination against the Mushar in many parts of South Asia.
In conclusion, the Musahar community is an ethnic group in South Asia that has faced discrimination and stereotypes, but they have a rich history and culture. While they have traditionally engaged in agricultural and other traditional crafts, the stereotype that they consume rats is not a defining characteristic of the community. Efforts are being made to improve the social and economic conditions of the Musahar community.
Reference: Life of Terai Dalits (Musahar), Herne Katha, Web Documentary Series
