Dr Chitra Mabo’s MUKKUMLUNG recently completed its nineteen day run at the Shilpee Theatre in Kathmandu. The production based on Dr Mabo’s story was directed by Pavitra Rai with the concept and playwright developed by Rajan Mukarung. The 1 hour 35 minute long production tells the story of Kirati people who live in the Eastern hills of Nepal. It uses community and people as vehicle to inform the audience about the different indigenous traditions and knowledge.
Today, Mukkumlung is a site that generates contrasting opinions. While some Limbu groups, indigenous activists and certain communities continue to advocate for the preservation of the sacred site, overzealous business groups inch towards the construction of a cable car connecting Kaflepati to Mukkumlung which today is popularly known as Pathibhara in Taplejung. The name Pathibhara came a lot later. While some may argue, what’s in a name… There is, a LOT and that probably warrants a separate blogpost, conversation.
“Mukkumlung is the sacred site (holy place) of Yakhtung (“Limbu”) Indigenous Peoples that lies in the hill of Taplejung district, eastern Nepal – a part of the ancestral lands of Yakthung (“Limbu”) Indigenous Peoples.” – LAHURNIP
Watching the final show on Sunday, I was pleasantly surprised with the tone and delivery of the production. I expected there to be more drama, protest like atmosphere and conflict. However, the play takes a soft approach which I must applaud. While it maybe cliché for some, the end sequence of scenes were nicely laid out to inform audiences of what indigenous people stand to lose if they continue to let money-minded business groups make decisions for them.
While development is encouraged, we need to respect and recognize the groups that have always been part of the land. We cannot simply go over and construct something and imply that it will result to the upliftment of the communities there. We must recognize indigenous knowledge and their spiritual connection with the land.
On that note, read my blogpost about my visit to Mukkumlung in 2023 below!
