Day 27 - The Chepang Nationality 

An isolated group living in the districts of Makawanpur, Chitwan, South Gorka, and South Dhading

The Chepangs are short and thin with flat noses and black curly hair. They are perceived as shy and ignorant and are generally looked down upon. Their origin is uncertain, but they claim to be descendants of Lord Rama, who is a legendary king from Hindu epics, and is worshipped as a deity. 

They are very quick in climbing and can even climb cliffs easily. They used to lead a nomadic lifestyle, mostly hunting and fishing for survival, as well as bee hunting which is still a common occupation. Besides trading honey, most Chepangs today are farmers growing maize, potatoes, and tobacco, and raising cows, goats, and pigs. Both men and women wear a wrap-around cloth called a lungi, while the women wear a blouse top, and the men wear a T-shirt. The Chepangs usually marry their cousins and a very wealthy man may marry his wife's sister as well. Most marriages are arranged by the parents, but the boy and girl usually have some say in it as well. 

The Chepangs have their own religion which is based in Shamanism and Animism. They worship many deities and adhere to many ancient traditions which are very occultic in nature. Most Chepangs still do not understand who Jesus is or what sin is, but about 1/3 of them have heard the name of Jesus and about half of that number have heard the gospel message in person. 

Most Chepangs are open to religious change, and there is little persecution when one converts to Christianity. The New Testament has recently been translated into the Chepang language and many have been coming to know the Lord in the last few years.

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