Dangol

The Dangol or Dongol (Nepali: डंगोल) clan are ethnic Newars from Kathmandu Valley, predominantly found in Kathmandu, Nepal. They belong to the Jyapu (Nepali: ज्यापू)) subcaste within the Newar family and are highly urbanized. In the olden times, they were farmers known for the knowledge on measurement of land and calculation. Also, they have some distinct culture and customs a bit different from other Jyapus, which these days have nearly disappeared through a historical disadvantage in comparison to hindu castes.

They practice a religion which is a blend of Buddhism, Hinduism and indigenous animism, Their daily life and culture is influenced greater by Buddhism, like Maharjans. They speak a sino-tibetan language in the Tibeto-Burman branch called nepal bhasa (newar). Tibeto-burman speaking people originate from an area near the Yangtze river in China.

Female Dangols marry the sun and the fruit 'Bel' when they are young. This is done in order to protect the girl from being a widow, who are looked down upon by the rest of nepal. If the woman's husband dies, she is still technically married to the sun and can hence not be called a widow.

The Dangols are said to be the descendants of the ancient Kirat or early Tibetans. They were one of the first peoples to have inhabited the Valley region and have lived under the rule of various hindu rulers who have looked down on them resulting in the loss of many pieces of history and customs.

See also

• Newa People
• Newar caste system
• Maharjan