1. Nepalese Culture “Mama” Dillon

2. Demographics

3. 26.2 million people – 101 ethnic groups (123 languages, Nepali and Maithili are most common) – Northern Himalayan – Middle Hills and Valley People – Kathmandu Valley – Terai People

4. Religion and Values

5. Secular state in 2006 Primarily: – Hinduism Bramha the Creator, Vishnu the Preserver, and Shiva (or Shakti) the Destroyer Texts: Bhagawat Gita and Mahabharat – AND Buddhism Five elements represented by Dhyani Buddhas Tantric tradition – spiritual expansion through rituals and ceremonies Also: Islam and Christianity

6. Customs and Tips

7. Traditional marriages Pure vs. impure Caste system Namaste Sid-ji! “Yes” and “No” Pointing to things “Bahini” and “Bhaai” Kids Guys holding hands

8. Food Right handed! Don’t eat/drink after other people Cow is the national animal of Nepal = NO BEEF Dal? Bhat? Tarkari? ACHAR!! Momos (steamed or fried dumpling) Newar cuisine “Parbate bigre mojle; Newar bigre bhojle”

9. Flag and Symbols!Symbols

10. Attire Skimpy outfits are frowned upon

11. Taboos Feet Stepping over people who are seated Looking dirty Bathing naked in public… Walking counterclockwise around temples