About Mewahang

Who are the Mewahang?

The Mewahang Rai are an indigenous Kiranti group from eastern Nepal, traditionally inhabiting the Sankhuwasabha district and surrounding regions. As a sub-group of the broader Rai ethnic community, the Mewahang have their own distinct language, cultural practices, and traditions that set them apart.

Our Heritage

The Mewahang community has a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional festivals, rituals, and customs passed down through generations. The community celebrates various festivals related to agriculture, nature worship, and ancestral traditions. The Mewahang language, part of the Kiranti language family, is a vital part of this cultural identity.

The Census Project

In official Nepalese census data, the Mewahang are generally not enumerated as a separate ethnic category — they are typically grouped under the broader "Rai" umbrella. This makes it challenging to accurately count and represent the Mewahang population.

This census project aims to address that gap by independently tracking the Mewahang community — recording their locations, professions, family structures, and demographics. By building our own database, we can better advocate for recognition and ensure our community's voice is heard.

Community Estimates

Academic and linguistic field reports estimate the Mewahang population at approximately 3,000 to 4,300 individuals, though the actual number may be higher. The 2001 Nepal census recorded 904 people speaking Mewahang as a mother tongue — but language data alone doesn't capture the full scope of our community.

How You Can Help

• If you are Mewahang, contact the admin to add your family to the census
• Share this platform with fellow community members
• Contribute articles and stories about Mewahang culture and history