The society of Newari

         The Newar are one of the most important societies of Nepal mainly living in Kathmandu. They are mainly a mercantile community. According some scholars the group’s main place as origin is Nayer Province situated in southern India. It is believed that Newar came to Nepal with the first Licchavi king. The Newar has theirs owns language. Newari language was the state language until A.D 1769. The society of Newar is divided into different segments, their cultural and structure is similar. There are both Hindu and Buddhist Newars. The Newars are famous for their Joint family system and many festivals. They worship a large pantheon of deities. They also worship another Tantric god, Bhairan. The Newar also maintain some distinctive cultural practices. One of them is Ihi, the mock marriage ceremony for given to virgin girls. The Newar have also a highly elaborate Guthi system of common trust to regulate their social and religious obligations. The Newar are very prominent in art and architecture. Newars lead ethnic and cast groups in business, trade and commerce.