This Western Tamang-Nepali dictionary is a collaborative project by speakers of Western Tamang from several Nepali districts. Tamang, a Tibeto-Burman language, boasts the fifth-largest number of speakers in Nepal (5.1% of the population according to the 2011 census). While predominantly spoken around the Kathmandu Valley, Tamang communities are spread throughout the country. The dictionary’s creation is significant, given the declining number of Western Tamang speakers due to the increasing dominance of Nepali.
According to Tamang oral tradition, Western Tamang speakers migrated to Nepal from Tibet, entering via the Himalayan pass of 'Same'. This location holds cultural significance, representing the 'tail of the Earth' in Tamang cosmology, influencing burial practices. Western Tamang, distinct from Eastern Tamang (spoken east of the Trisuli River), encompasses dialects spoken across various western districts. These dialects are often referred to as 'Nhurba' or 'Nhuppa'.
This dictionary provides Nepali translations for Western Tamang words, offering a valuable resource for comparative linguistic study and, crucially, for the preservation of this endangered language. The creators welcome feedback to further improve and expand this important tool for the Tamang community.
What's New in Version 1.7
Last updated September 29, 2024
Updated July 30, 2024 New Android SDK
Tags : Books & Reference
