Sun, 25 October 2026
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Sun, 25 October 2026
By Jay Krishna Yadav, Inaruwa, Oct. 25: The ancient Gram Than, a sacred site associated with the religious beliefs, traditions and cultural identity of the Tharu community in Ramdhuni and Itahari of Sunsari district, is reportedly facing growing threats from encroachment and changes to its traditional name.
Local journalist Dhirendra Kumar Chaudhary said timely attention was needed to preserve these historical and religious sites, which reflect the community’s distinct cultural identity.
According to Chaudhary, Gram Than sites have existed in every Tharu village since ancient times, but many have fallen into disrepair due to a lack of proper conservation.
Advocate Sukdev Chaudhary said the community had several other sacred sites alongside Gram Than, but a lack of preservation efforts and neglect by the state had made their protection increasingly challenging.
Although the Tharu community has traditionally worshipped at these sites as an integral part of its customs and culture, preserving them has become a growing concern, he said.
In the past, people used to worship at Gram Than by creating mounds of earth. However, permanent concrete structures have been built at various sites in recent years. These structures have helped continue religious practices while maintaining the community’s traditions.
In Sunsari, the Tharu community of Saptari origin has traditionally established shrines known as Rajaji Than in the names of its ancestors, Jitan Dhami, Saun Dhami, Bichhu Dhami and Baukai Dhami. These shrines are also known as Dihabar Than.
However, the land occupied by Gram Than sites and the access routes leading to them have reportedly been encroached upon in various locations. While some religious and cultural sites remain protected, others have been left without adequate conservation.
Concerns have also been raised over the gradual renaming of important religious sites in Tharu settlements, including Shikari Than, Dakin Than, Latidevi Than and Jabdi Than.
Community members fear that changing these traditional names could undermine the Tharu community's cultural identity. The names and practices, passed down through generations, are closely linked to the community's history and cultural continuity.
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