Home Institution

University of Richmond

Publication Date

Spring 2023

Program Name

Nepal: Tibetan and Himalayan Peoples

Abstract

This paper delves into an immersive exploration and contemplation of a pivotal transformation unfolding in the heartland of Lower Mustang, Nepal. What began as an endeavor to channel my creative expression and unearth the diminishing world of yak herding soon necessitated a broader, more nuanced analysis of the profound changes sweeping across the region. This paper, mainly drawing upon the narratives of the inhabitants, seeks to portray the contemporary cultural and capital significance of yaks, as well as the various factors— climate change, outmigration, national policy discrepancies, conservation initiatives, and shifting cultural paradigms— that render specific patterns of movement increasingly untenable. Notably, the study also traces the impact of migration and modernity on identity formation, exploring the tension and intersections between local and migrant identities. It underscores the evolving concept of home that extends beyond physicality to encapsulate shared experiences, emotions, and relationships. Furthermore, despite geographical isolation, it reflects upon the pervasive influences of cross-cultural connections and the wider world. Thus, this paper offers a nuanced understanding of the Mustang community's complexities, commitment to their heritage, and resilience in the face of constant change. It contributes to the broader discourse on identity, belonging, and cultural change, providing valuable insights for the Himalayan region and beyond.

Disciplines

Asian Studies | Climate | Family, Life Course, and Society | Human Ecology | Migration Studies | Place and Environment | Politics and Social Change | Social and Cultural Anthropology

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