Thakuri

Thakuri

ठकुरी
Regions with significant populations
Nepal	494,470 (1.7% of Nepal's population)[1]
Languages
Nepali
Religion
Hinduism 99.20% (2011), Christianity 0.54% (2011)[2]

The Thakuri (Nepali: ठकुरी) . This term is a Nepali cognate of the Indian Kshatriya title Thakur, which translates to 'master of the estate'.^[3] The term denotes the royal descendants of kings of Baise Rajya and Chaubisi Rajya.

During the height of their influence, the Thakuri caste played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of Nepal. They held positions of authority and governance, contributing to the administration and stability of the region. Their lineage was highly regarded, and they were often sought after for leadership roles within the kingdom.

Notably, members of the Shah dynasty, which ruled Nepal for centuries, were descendants of the Khand Thakuri caste from Chaubisi. The Shah royal family held significant sway over Nepalese affairs, guiding the nation through various periods of prosperity and turmoil.

The Thakuris forged a legacy deeply rooted in Nepalese history. Their contributions to politics, culture, and society continue to be remembered and celebrated, reflecting their enduring impact on the nation.

They are nicknamed Bahusaheb/Raja (male) or Maiya (female).

Nepali sociologist Harka Bahadur Gurung noted that the Thakuri is the Nepalese version of the Hindi word Thakur which means 'master of the estate'.^[3] Thakuris of Nepal are also associated with some territory inherited from the days of Baisi and Chaubisi principalities and the term Thakurai actually refers to 'fiefdom'.^[3]

Thakuri is a title that transcends caste and community, with its roots deeply embedded in the diverse cultural norms and traditions across various regions of Nepal. The term "Thakuri" is not limited to a single ethnicity or lineage but instead reflects the customs, practices, and social structures of different groups.

In regions like Sudhurpaschim and Karnali, Thakuris are considered pure Khas Thakuri due to their shared cultural practices, such as worshipping the deity Masto. Meanwhile, in Gandaki and Lumbini, Thakuris can be from Tibetan or Magar clans, as they follow distinct cultural traditions like Tibetan Buddhism in areas like Mustang and Manang, or participate in rituals with Magars. For instance, Thakuris from Gandaki and Lumbini may follow the Magar custom of marrying maternal cousins (मामाको छोरी), though this practice is not compulsory and is no longer as common. However, if both families agree, this union can still take place.

It's also important to note that there are individuals in Gandaki who, despite being Brahmin (such as the Hamal family), claim to be Thakuri, which is inaccurate. Similarly, certain groups like the "Jogi" Kunwar family, who live in Pokhara and falsely claim to be Khand Thakuri from Dhor Tanahu, are not recognized as Thakuri. The diversity within the Thakuri title showcases the many variations and complex histories of this group, underlining that not all Thakuris share the same origins or practices.

Thakuri groups are mostly found in the Gandaki and Lumbini regions in significant numbers. They have their own significant history, including:

1. Sen -

The Sen dynasty was one of the most powerful ruling families of the Chaubisi Rajya (24 kingdoms), governing over Palpa, Tanahun, Makwanpur, Bijayapur, and surrounding regions. The Sen kings, known for their strong armies and administrative power, played a crucial role in Nepal's history.

Formation and Expansion Rudra Sen founded the Kingdom of Palpa in 1493. His son Mukunda Sen I (1518-1553) expanded the kingdom, covering areas from Gulmi in the west to the Koshi River in the east and Gorakhpur in the south. However, after his death, Palpa was divided among his four sons into Palpa, Butwal, Tanahun, and Makwanpur.

Palpa Kingdom Palpa, ruled by Manikya Sen, remained a strong kingdom. Ambar Sen later unified Palpa and Butwal, followed by rulers like Gundharva Sen, Mukunda Sen II, and Mahadatta Sen. In 1784, King Mahadatta Sen married his daughter to Bahadur Shah of Gorkha, forming an alliance. This allowed Palpa to survive longer than other kingdoms during Nepal’s unification. However, in 1806, the last king, Prithvipal Sen, was executed in Kathmandu, integrating Palpa into Nepal.

Butwal and Anglo-Nepal War Butwal, ruled by Binayek Sen and later Ambar Sen, became a crucial territory. Disputes over Butwal were a major cause of the Anglo-Nepal War (1814-1816). Although Nepal claimed Butwal due to its historic ties with Palpa, the British eventually refused to take it after the Sugauli Treaty.

Tanahun and Gorkha Conquest Tanahun was ruled by Bhrigu Sen’s descendants. During Nepal’s unification (1744-56), King Tribikram Sen was lured by Gorkha under false pretenses and imprisoned. This led to Tanahun’s annexation by Prithvi Narayan Shah.

Makwanpur and Integration into Nepal Lohang Sen, the youngest son of Mukunda Sen I, ruled Makwanpur. His descendant, Digbandhan Sen, sought help from Bengal's Nawab Mir Kasim, who sent 2,500 troops in 1763, but they were defeated by Gorkha forces. Makwanpur was annexed into Nepal in 1762, and Digbandhan Sen was captured in 1763.

Bijayapur and Chaudandi Sen rulers governed Morang/Bijayapur from 1609-1769, but internal conflicts weakened the kingdom. In 1773, Karn Singh, the exiled king of Chaudandi, was installed in Bijayapur, but by 1774, both kingdoms were annexed into Nepal.

Legacy and Ruins The Sen dynasty's influence can still be seen in historic forts and ruins, including Sindhuli Gadhi, Makwanpur Gadhi, and the remains of Bijayapur Durbar. Sen Thakuri and Magar communities continue their cultural traditions, such as Kul Pooja, in various regions of Nepal. ^[4]

2. Khand -

The Khand Thakuri were a significant ruling family in Nepal's medieval history, known for their governance over various regions, particularly in Syangja district. They ruled over territories such as Nuwakot Syangja, Bhirkot Syangja, and Satahu Syangja, establishing themselves as influential leaders. The Khand rulers played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of western Nepal, governing principalities that later became part of Nepal’s unification process.

One of the most notable aspects of the Khand Thakuri is their connection to the Shah dynasty, which later ruled Nepal. The Khand rulers are considered the ancestors of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, who initiated the unification of Nepal. Before the unification, Nepal was divided into multiple small principalities, commonly referred to as Baise Rajya (22 Kingdoms) and Chaubise Rajya (24 Kingdoms). The Khand Thakuri held power in several of these states before eventually merging into the Shah-led unification process.

Over time, the Khand rulers adopted the surname 'Shah,' signifying their transition from local chieftains to monarchs of a unified kingdom. This shift is documented in Rajaram Subedi’s historical works, which reference the Khand lineage and their transformation into the ruling Shah dynasty. Two of the most prominent ancestors of the Shah rulers were:

Mincha Khand – A key figure in the early governance of small principalities, laying the foundation for the future Shah dynasty. Khancha Khand – Another significant ruler who contributed to the establishment of the Shah lineage and its influence over Nepalese history. Despite their historical significance, the Khand Thakuri population remains relatively small today. Many members of this community have embraced the title Shahi Thakuri, aligning themselves with the broader Thakuri identity while preserving their historical roots. The Khand Thakuri’s contributions to Nepal’s unification and governance remain an integral part of the nation’s history, highlighting their lasting influence in shaping Nepal’s monarchy and political development. Kingdom of Nuwakot ^[5]

3. Uchhai -

The Uchai Thakuri are a distinct subgroup within the larger Thakuri community, primarily found in the Gandaki and Lumbini provinces of Nepal. Historically, they ruled over Sigana Rajya, a small yet significant kingdom near the Baglung district, for more than 140 years before it was eventually integrated into the unified nation of Nepal. Despite their historical prominence, the Uchai Thakuri population remains relatively small. In recent years, many individuals from this community have started adopting the surname 'Shahi Thakuri' instead of 'Uchai.' Their cultural heritage and legacy continue to be an essential part of the historical fabric of the region, reflecting the enduring influence of the Thakuri lineage in Nepalese society.

4. Banshi - Banshi Thakuri is a distinct subgroup within the larger Thakuri community in Nepal, recognized for sharing a surname with the Magar ethnic group. Historical accounts suggest that the Banshi Thakuri's ancestors were originally Magars, and this connection is reflected in their cultural practices, traditions, and values. These similarities are particularly evident in their customs, rituals, and societal roles, which closely align with those of the Magar people.

While there is limited written documentation on the Banshi Thakuri compared to other Thakuri subgroups, they remain an important and recognizable part of Nepal’s diverse ethnic landscape. The majority of Banshi Thakuris reside in the Gandaki Province, where they are deeply integrated into local communities, contributing to both cultural preservation and the region’s social fabric. Despite the lack of extensive historical records, their presence and cultural influence continue to thrive, offering a unique blend of Thakuri and Magar heritage.

Sen, Banshi, Khand, and Uchhai Thakuris: These groups share close cultural ties with the Magars ethnic community. Their deities, cultural practices, and values align more with the Magar clan than with the Khas people.

Additionally, a few families of the Kunwar (Jogi) caste, who are Khas people, claim to be Khand of the Dhor Kingdom of Tanahu, which they are not. This can cause confusion and misrepresentation regarding the original Khand Thakuri. Original Khand Thakuris worship their deity (kul puja) Alamdevi, located in Lasarga-2, Syangja.

Various Thakuri sub-castes, such as Sen Banshi/Bamshi, Khand, Uchhai, Shah/Shahi are specifically prevalent in the Gandaki region. On the other hand, sub-castes like Chand, Shahi, Bam, Singh, and Pal are prominently found mainly in the Karnali region^[6]

Thakuris constitute the aristocracy and possess the high social, ritual and political status.^[7] Thakuris were historically politically and socially ahead of others.^[7] Traditionally, the Thakuris' main occupations involved government, agriculture and military.^[6] They traditionally constituted the ruling and warrior classes,^[8] and, except royal posts, share other administrative and military posts with the Chhetris.

The frequency of Thakuri was higher than national average (1.6%) in the following districts:^[9]

• Kalikot (25.1%)
• Humla (19.8%)
• Jajarkot (16.8%)
• Mugu (15.4%)
• Dailekh (14.1%)
• Jumla (7.4%)
• Baitadi (6.8%)
• Dolpa (6.4%)
• Kanchanpur (5.6%)
• Bajura (5.2%)
• Western Rukum (5.0%)
• Bajhang (4.9%)
• Darchula (4.9%)
• Surkhet (4.6%)
• Kailali (3.9%)
• Banke (3.6%)
• Doti (3.5%)
• Salyan (3.5%)
• Achham (2.5%)
• Dadeldhura (2.5%)
• Parbat (2.5%)
• Syangja (2.5%)
• Bardiya (2.3%)
• Tanahun (2.3%)
• Myagdi (2.0%)
• Nawalpur (1.8%)

The ruling Shah dynasty of Gorkha Kingdom and other dynasties such as the Malla dynasty from Galkot later Kingdom of Nepal are ranked among Thakuris.^[7]

• Shah dynasty of Gorkha Kingdom^[7]

In alphabetical order, the commonly known Thakuri surnames are:^[10][11][12]

• Bam
• Chand
• Khand/Khan
• Malla
• Pal
• Sen
• Shah^[13]
• Shahi
• Kalel/Kalyal (Shahi) ^[14]
• Singh
• Thakuri
• Simha

Of these, Chand, Bam, Malla, and Pal are also associated with Kumaon/Kuramanchal kingdom.

Note: Hamal are the offspring of a Thakuri female and an Upadhyaya Brahmin.

• Prithvi Narayan Shah
• Jaya Prithvi Bahadur Singh
• Kunwar Inderjit Singh
• Thirbam Malla
• Lokendra Bahadur Chand
• Gaurika Singh
• Dasrath Chand

• Baise Rajya (Twenty-Two Principalities)
• Chaubise Rajya(Twenty-Four Principalities)
• Chand Kings
• Katyuri Kings

• Dharam Vir (1988). Education and Polity in Nepal: An Asian Experiment. Northern Book Centre. pp. 56–57. ISBN 978-81-85119-39-7.
• Gurung, Harka Bahadur (1996). Faces of Nepal. illustrated by Jan Salter. Himal. p. 29. ISBN 978-9993343509.
• Hamilton, Francis Buchanan (1819), An Account of the Kingdom of Nepal, and the Territories Annexed to this Dominion by the House of Gorkha, A Constable
• Nagendra Kr Singh (1997). Nepal: Refugee to Ruler : a Militant Race of Nepal. APH Publishing. pp. 1–2. ISBN 978-81-7024-847-7.
• Mahesh Chandra Regmi (January 1, 1976), "Some Questions on Nepali history" (PDF), Regmi Research Series, 8 (1): 1–20
• Sharma, Prayag Raj (2004). The State and Society in Nepal: Historical Foundations and Contemporary Trends. Himal Books. ISBN 9789993343622.