RAI

A branch of Kirati race, Rais belong to Kirant confederation. Rais are found in eastern Nepal scattered in several zones and districts. They live mainly towards north of Sagarmatha, Koshi and Mechi zones or the districts of Solukhumbu, Okhaldhunga, Khotang, Bhojpur and Udayapur. Rais are found in various parts of India also. Athpaharia, Bantawa, Chamling, Kulung, Loharang, Nembang, Nechali, Sangpang, Thulung and Chaurasia are all the various clans of Rais. These people are famous for their courage, but that they are not interested in trifling quarrels. Instead, they are jolly people who enjoy their festivals and rituals in most entertaining ways. Mostly, agricultural people, they have also very important role in the army. They worship their ancestor ‘Purubhang’ as their native god. 

Rais speak many dialects of the Tibeto-Burman family. They have their own unique religion. Their principal scripture is Mundhum. Sitakhau Budo, Walmo Budi, Jalpa Devi and others are their local deities. Rich in culture, the Sakela (Chandi) Dance and the sharing of newly harvested foods in Nwagi are their principal festivals. Rais bury their dead. Pork is used for auspicious and holy occasions. They consider Sumnima and Paroohang as their primordial parents.