#news #hunting #Nepal
In Myagdi’s Annapurna Rural Municipality-5, the tradition of collective hunting has begun among the residents who live near the forests. Led by the local Lok Bahadur Paija, a group of residents extracted 40 liters of mah (wild honey) from a cliff on Tuesday. This annual practice of collective honey hunting during the first week of Jestha has been a consistent tradition for years.
The group of hunters, including young participants like Kesh Bahadur Tilija, Tul Bahadur Purja, Sujan Tilija, and Sanam Paija, used ropes to extract the honey. Approximately 20 individuals were involved in the initial collection and processing of the honey in the cliff area.
To ensure the sustainable practice of honey hunting and to prevent the decline in honey production, experts have been training the youth in relevant skills. Residents took a break from their daily chores to observe the honey hunting process in the cliff area.
Ramesh Khatri, representing Kansai Nepal News, highlighted the significance of the tradition and the need to preserve it for future generations. He emphasized the risks involved in honey hunting and the importance of passing down traditional knowledge to maintain the practice.
The honey hunting season, which is most suitable during the spring and autumn seasons, involves dividing the hunters into two groups for efficient extraction. One group lowers the rope from the top of the cliff to collect the honey, while the other group is responsible for processing and consuming the honey.
After the honey is collected from various cliffs in the area, it is distributed among the residents in a meeting. The honey is then sold to external markets after distribution within the community.
Local resident Bal Bahadur Tilija highlighted the health benefits and the strengthening nature of the honey obtained from the cliffs. Additionally, he mentioned the cultural significance of honey hunting in their community.
Ramesh Tilija, the Ward Chairperson of Annapurna Rural Municipality-5, shared plans to modernize and commercialize honey hunting while ensuring safety and sustainability. He aims to integrate tourism with honey hunting, attracting both local and international tourists to witness the traditional practice.
Chandra Pun, a resident of Swanta, mentioned that the tradition of honey hunting is deeply ingrained in their culture. The community looks forward to continuing this practice, which has been a part of their heritage for generations.
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Author: MAYA | HARUTO
Posted at: May 22, 2025 12:05 am
