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- Mar 5, 1999
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Yesterday we went to Manakamana to visit one of the most popular Hindu shrines in Nepal. The only problem here is foreigners are not allowed entry to the shine. So, I dressed like a somewhat well to do Brahmin might dress, put on my Nepali topi (village style, not tourist) and also donned my Nepali air and decided to speak only Nepali when required.
First test was a small roadside restaurant where our party stopped to eat. I spoke to the Sauni and she buzzed right back in Nepali and soon lost me. But I passed the test. Many old Brahmins are gray haired like me and those who don't hear well might not respond appropriately.
Nest test was the cable car ticket purchasing and ride up the mountain. Nepalis 250 NC about $3.50 round trips -- foreigners $10. I passed this test, too. Not a single question.
Final test was entry to the Manakamana shrine. All leather articles off and stored at a nearby pasal, appropriate puja articles purchased and in hand. I followed Pala and sister-in-law Sanu in the puja, watching closely so that I'd know exactly what to do. When the priest asked my name I had a fictitious one ready, Govinda Neurapane, but just couldn't bring myself to use it. "James," I said. The priest looked up a my brother in law, Nabin, and asked, "Is this man Nepali?" Nabin who is very quick on his feet repled, "His mother is Nepali, father American."
I got the blessing!
I have pix of all this and will post the entire story when I get back.
And blessings from all of us here in Nepal to all of you.
------------------
Uncle Bill
Himalayan Imports Website
Khukuri FAQ
First test was a small roadside restaurant where our party stopped to eat. I spoke to the Sauni and she buzzed right back in Nepali and soon lost me. But I passed the test. Many old Brahmins are gray haired like me and those who don't hear well might not respond appropriately.
Nest test was the cable car ticket purchasing and ride up the mountain. Nepalis 250 NC about $3.50 round trips -- foreigners $10. I passed this test, too. Not a single question.
Final test was entry to the Manakamana shrine. All leather articles off and stored at a nearby pasal, appropriate puja articles purchased and in hand. I followed Pala and sister-in-law Sanu in the puja, watching closely so that I'd know exactly what to do. When the priest asked my name I had a fictitious one ready, Govinda Neurapane, but just couldn't bring myself to use it. "James," I said. The priest looked up a my brother in law, Nabin, and asked, "Is this man Nepali?" Nabin who is very quick on his feet repled, "His mother is Nepali, father American."
I got the blessing!
I have pix of all this and will post the entire story when I get back.
And blessings from all of us here in Nepal to all of you.
------------------
Uncle Bill
Himalayan Imports Website
Khukuri FAQ
