Performing Maghi and Redefining Tharu Identity
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Department of English
Abstract
This thesis argues that Maghi is more than a festival to Tharus. It is a moment when
individual Tharu starts knowing and experiencing being a member of the community in the
corner of this world, especially in Bardiya. It is at this moment, he / she starts re-decorating
houses, house yard, community places and temples or so on. From children to oldies start
dressing up in the attire that evokes the culture of Tharus. Moreover, songs, dances,foods
and traditional organizations,which Tharu have nurtured and consumed for ages start
dominating the entire community.Though it is impossible to remain cut off from the global
and national influence, especially in cultures and lifestyles, it is during the Maghi,Tharu
community getsits cultural color and dimension. It at least for a few days in a year the Tharu
community gets a new avatar and brings a powerful confidence for Tharus to project who
they are and what their identities are.