In today's article we are going to talk about Bania (Newar caste), a topic that has been the subject of debate and study for many years. Since its appearance, Bania (Newar caste) has generated interest in various communities and has been the subject of discussion in different areas. In this article we will analyze the most relevant aspects of Bania (Newar caste), exploring its origins, its implications and its impact on current society. Additionally, we will address the different perspectives that exist around Bania (Newar caste), as well as possible solutions or approaches to address the challenges it poses. We hope that this article will be of interest to those seeking to better understand Bania (Newar caste), and that it can serve as a starting point for future reflections and discussions on this topic.
Newari Banias (Devanagari: बनिया) are a Bania caste from the Newar community of the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal. The name Bania is derived from the Sanskrit word vanijya (merchant); by preference, Bania (caste).
Banias belong to the Urāy group which includes Tuladhar, Kansakar, Tamrakar, Sthapit, Sindurakar, Selalik and other castes. They speak Nepal Bhasa as a mother tongue and follow Newar Buddhism.
Banias are traditionally herbalists and wholesalers of raw materials for Newar, Tibetan and Āyurvedic traditional medicines. Traditional Bania neighborhoods in Kathmandu are Itum Bahal, Bania Chuka and Jhwabahal where the streets are lined with herbal shops.
Banias participate in the performance of Gunla Bajan religious music. Samyak is the greatest Newar Buddhist festival held every 12 years in Kathmandu where statues of Dipankara Buddha are displayed. During this festival, each Urāy caste has been assigned a duty from ancient times, and Banias have the task of preparing and serving "sākhahti", a soft drink made by mixing brown sugar and water.