Shamanism in Nepal: Inside the practices and spiritual world of Jhakri

“Jhakri” is the Nepalese word for shaman; in Nepal it refers to practitioners of the ethnic groups of the Tamang, Magar, Rai, Limbu and Gurung people.

Chet Bahadur Thing, 26, a renowned shaman, felt a connection with the spiritual world, and learning from his grandfather, he started practising shamanism at the age of 11. He is now considered a guru in his community. He says: “During ancient times, when there was no medical science or hospitals, shamans used to treat the patients in our village. Even now, people with spiritual problems or body pain visit us for healing or treatment or when doctors cannot heal them.”

Eighteen-year-old Sheela Lamichhane is a student of management in Kathmandu and a practising shaman. Ever since her older sister got severely ill and then was treated by a shaman she has been fascinated by those who practice it.

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