‘Silam Sakma’ placed in Kerkha Bazaar

By Our Correspondent,Damak, July 21: The ‘Silam Sakma’ is a symbol of the original armor used by the Kirat Yakthung Limbu. It is now is kept in Kerkha Bazaar of Kamal Rural Municipality-3, Jhapa. 

Silam Sakma holds a profound cultural and historical significance, with various myths and stories associated with to its origin. One of them is it saves the community from a great calamity.

The term ‘Silam Sakma’ is derived from three Limbu language words. ‘Si’ signifies death, ‘lam’ means way, and ‘Sakma’ denotes to stop or halt. 

The Limbu people believe that Silam Sakma can help them evade death, making it an essential protective emblem within their culture.

Originally it used to be crafted by cutting bamboo, but now it is weaved using silk. 

Despite the evolution of materials, the symbolic importance of Silam Sakma remains deeply ingrained in Limbu traditions.

However, as time progresses, traditional materials and practices are fading away, raising concerns about preserving the cultural heritage of the Limbu community. 

Surya Prasad Limbu, the chief advisor of Kirant Yakthung, emphasises the importance of preserving such artefacts as they play a vital role in safeguarding the cultural 

heritage of Nepal.

 By cherishing and promoting Silam Sakma, the new generation can also connect with their roots and carry forward the rich legacy of the Limbu community, Limbu added.