Traditional profession of Majhis at risk

By Siraj Khan,Nepalgunj, Feb. 26: The Majhi community of Banke, who have been making a living by gold panning in the river for generations, are now facing a crisis in their traditional profession.

As water levels in the Rapti River continue to decline, the profession of gold panning has become increasingly difficult. 

With their livelihood at risk, the community that has relied on extracting gold from river sand for generations is now in despair.

With their traditional occupation in crisis, the community has started seeking alternative sources of income. 

Khadka Bahadur Khatri, who has been panning for gold in the Rapti River for the past 25 years, expressed his disappointment with the current situation.

He said that due to the declining water levels, the amount of gold found in the river has significantly decreased, making it difficult for them to sustain their livelihood.

“The river water has receded, and the gold content in the sand has also diminished. It has become challenging to make a living, and we are extremely worried,” said Khatri.

Ram Bahadur, another Majhi who has been in the profession for three decades, is facing a similar struggle.

He explained that the river’s course has changed, and the reduced water volume has made gold extraction extremely difficult.

“In the past, when there was a lot of water, the strong current of water would carry heavy amount of 

sand, making it easier to find gold. But now, with little to no water, sifting through the sand yields nothing,” he added.

With their livelihood at risk, many members of the Majhi community have started looking for alternative employment. 

Tulsi Devi Majhi, 50, used to pan for gold along with her husband, but as the profession can no longer sustain their family, she has now turned to vegetable farming.

“As the water in the river receded, finding gold became nearly impossible. When it became difficult to support my family, I was forced to start vegetable farming,” she said.

Various factors, including changes in the river’s course and uncontrolled exploitation of river resources, have also impacted the availability of gold in Rapti River.  

According to the Majhi community, the excessive extraction of river materials has changed the natural state of the river.

Although the government has regulated the excavation of river-based materials, it has not been able to provide suitable alternative employment opportunities for the Majhi community, said community leader Khadka Bahadur Khatri.

He pointed out that with limited alternatives, many Majhis are still struggling to sustain their livelihood.