In the village municipality of Kepilasgadhi-1, Fedikhola, located in Terhathum district, Nepal, a 63-year-old local man named Tirthamani Rai successfully hunted a “Mah” (a type of Himalayan goat) after 45 years. Accompanied by his 62-year-old nephew Hastaram Rai, they embarked on a risky and adventurous journey to hunt the Mah in the dangerous and remote Bhairamala area.
Tirthamani Rai, a resident of Makhamla in the same Fedikhola region, had been aspiring to visit the neighboring district of Bhojpur to hunt the Mah since his youth. Finally, with the support of his nephew Hastaram and a group of local assistants, they ventured into the treacherous terrain to fulfill Tirthamani’s long-standing dream.
The Mah hunting expedition has been a tradition for the local people, and Tirthamani is not the only one who has undertaken such a journey. In addition to the tradition, the younger generations are also attracted to this activity. However, due to various factors like climate change and the use of chemical substances in the local paper industry, the number of Mah in the Bhairamala area has been decreasing. As a result, it has become more challenging for hunters to find Mah and fulfill their aspirations.
To successfully hunt the Mah, Tirthamani and his group used locally made ropes from Choya, a plant found in the Maligo forest, to climb and descend the steep cliffs and narrow paths of the Bhairamala region. They also carried essential equipment like a gun, tent, food, and other supplies to support them during the expedition.
The local community of Fedikhola, especially the Kirat Rai (Samapang) community, has a deep-rooted tradition of hunting Mah, and they follow cultural rituals during and after the hunt. After successfully hunting the Mah, Tirthamani and his group brought it back to their village and offered it as a prasad (sacred offering) to their ancestors in their home, respecting their cultural practices.
The region of Kepilasgadhi in Terhathum district has immense potential for tourism, especially for those interested in Mah hunting and trekking. The local authorities and business leaders are considering developing the area as a tourism hub, connecting it with the famous Mundhum Trail (trekking route) and promoting eco-tourism.
In summary, Tirthamani Rai’s successful hunt of the Mah after 45 years is a significant achievement and showcases the cultural and adventurous spirit of the local community in the Fedikhola region. It also presents an opportunity for tourism development in the area, which could bring economic prosperity to the district.
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