Speaker: Keshav Lall Maharjan 

Guthi is one of the core essences of Newah Civilization that forms the base for engaging people in the various aspects of their livelihood. While the word Guthi is said to be apabhramsa (colloquial form) of the Sanskrit word Gosthi, meaning gathering, association, organization, group and so on. In Newah bhae it is called “Gu”. It is the basic networking structure of Newah culture, society and economic activities and becoming inseparable aspect of Newah heritage. It bonds, bridges and binds families, lineage, neighborhoods, jat/caste, like-minded people, interest groups, occupational groups and so on. Its objective could vary from entertainment, wish/ prayer for better livelihood (good fortune, health, prosperity, peace, current, future and beyond, homage to earlier generations) of the individuals to consolidation of society and the formation of a country. It is run generally by the contributions of the members on the voluntary and or regulatory basis. Guthis also may have assets from such contributions of the members and or external benevolent and or regulatory, regal/ legal institutions. Such assets would generate incomes to bear the costs needed to run the guthis.

In this paper, main guthis of the twa (locality) where I was born and their changes during the last half a century will be explored. The focus will be on Punhi Gu, Sanlu Gu (entertainment/ like-minded guthi), Depuja Gu (lineage guthi), Sanah Gu (neighborhood/ caste guthi), Manka Gu (neighborhood assorted guthi).