WHO WE ARE ?

The Gandharbas are the only musician caste of Nepal. We are also one of the many "untouchable" castes of this country. In Hindu mythology we were once the winged musicians of the Gods. Long before television and radio, we travelled from village to village playing our lively music and spreading news.

Our ancestors would sing tales ranging from battles fought long ago to local gossip for a small amount of money or food. We played an important role in spreading and preserving Nepali folklore and we were also involved in historical events. During the unification of Nepal, King Prithvi Narayan Shah (1769-1775 A.D.) sent Gandharbas throughout the country to sing in favour of a united kingdom.

Modern media have displaced us from our traditional role. Because of this we now find it difficult to secure regular employment, although our music is gradually being recognised as a cultural treasure. We have little or no land and, due to poverty, many of our caste have not received an education beyond primary school. In an effort to find music employment many Gandharbas go to tourist areas. We play in restaurants for very low wages and do "street business" - selling toy sarangis.