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Top 10 Celebrities Embracing Khas Roots

Khas people are one of the major ethnic groups in Nepal. They have contributed significantly to the country’s culture, arts, and entertainment industry. Here are ten popular celebrities and notable people from the Khas ethnicity:

  • 1. Prabal Gurung: Renowned fashion designer, known for dressing many Hollywood celebrities and influential figures.
  • 2. Manisha Koirala: Internationally acclaimed actress, known for her roles in Bollywood and Nepali films. She has won several awards for her performances.
  • 3. Udit Narayan: Legendary playback singer, recognized for his melodious voice and numerous hit songs in Bollywood and Nepali cinema.
  • 4. Jhala Nath Khanal: Former Prime Minister of Nepal, who served the country from February 2011 to August 2011.
  • 5. Deepak Chandra Amatya: Prominent writer and poet, known for his contributions to Nepali literature. He has received various honors for his work.
  • 6. Saugat Malla: Popular actor in the Nepali film industry, best known for his role in the critically acclaimed movie “Kabaddi.”
  • 7. Nisha Adhikari: Actress and beauty queen, who has worked in numerous Nepali films and won the title of Miss International Nepal 2005.
  • 8. Usha Thapa: Influential social activist and human rights defender, who has been working towards empowering women and marginalized communities in Nepal.
  • 9. Gopal Yonzon: Noted comedian and actor, famous for his humorous performances in Nepali films and television shows.
  • 10. Malvika Subba: Former Miss Nepal, media personality, and social activist, who has also hosted several popular TV shows in Nepal.

These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields, showcasing the creativity, talent, and resilience of the Khas ethnic group in Nepal. Their achievements have not only brought pride to their community but also showcased the diversity of talent that exists within the country.

Khas people, (English: ; Nepali: खस) popularly known as Khas Arya, are an Indo-Aryan ethno-linguistic group native to the Himalayan region of the Indian subcontinent, in what is now the present-day South Asian country of Nepal, as well as the Indian states of  Uttarakhand, West Bengal and Sikkim. Historically, Khas were the speakers of an ancient Khas language from the Indo-Aryan language family and the earliest recorded speakers of the Western Pahari languages. The large portion of the Indo-Aryan speakers throughout lower Himalayas were the Khas people. An intrusion of this tribe from the Western and Northwestern Himalayas into Central Himalayas is substantiated by the early linguistic evidences related to the Nepali language. They were also known as Parbatiyas/Parbates and are currently known as Paharis/Pahadis. (literally, "from the hills"). They were also referred to as Yartse in Tibet and are also known as Khasan by Bhotia people. The term Khas has now become obsolete, as the Khas people have adopted communal identities because of the negative stereotypes associated with the term Khas. In Nepal the native speaker of Nepali language are known as Khas.According to the Constitution of Nepal, Bahun, Kshetris, Thakuris, and Sanyasis (Dashnami) who are citizens of Nepal should be considered as "Khas Arya" for electoral purposes.

Most Famous Khas People

Khas’s Three Pinnacle Historical Inheritances

The Khas community, also known as Khasa or Khasiya, is an indigenous population in the Indian subcontinent. They form a significant part of the population in regions like Nepal, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and parts of Uttar Pradesh. The Khas people have a rich heritage and have contributed significantly to the history and culture of the region. Here are three of the most well-known historical inheritances associated with the Khas heritage.

1. The Khas Language

The Khas community has their own language, known as Khas Kura or Khas Bhasa. It is an Indo-Aryan language that belongs to the Pahari group. The Khas language has been widely spoken in Nepal throughout history and is one of the major languages of the country. It has also influenced the development of other regional languages in the Indian subcontinent, such as Garhwali, Kumaoni, and Doteli. The Khas language has a rich literary tradition, with ancient texts written in the language. It continues to be an important part of the Khas cultural identity.

2. Khas Warrior Tradition

The Khas people have a strong warrior tradition that dates back centuries. The Khas warriors were known for their bravery, skill, and resilience on the battlefield. They were renowned for their archery and horse-riding skills, making them formidable warriors in ancient times. The Khas warriors played a significant role in various historical conflicts and were often employed by rulers and kingdoms as mercenaries. Their legacy as fierce warriors is still celebrated in traditional folklore, songs, and dance forms that have been passed down through generations.

3. Khasa Kingdom

The Khasa Kingdom, also known as the Khas Malla Kingdom, was a medieval dynasty that ruled over parts of present-day Nepal. The Khasa Kingdom emerged in the 12th century and reached its peak during the 14th to 18th centuries. The Khasa rulers established their capital in Kantipur, which is now known as Kathmandu. They were patrons of art, culture, and religion, and many historical landmarks and temples were built during their reign. The Khasa Kingdom has left a lasting impact on the region’s history, architecture, and socio-cultural practices.

The Khas community’s heritage encompasses a diverse range of traditions, beliefs, and practices. These three historical inheritances, the Khas language, warrior tradition, and the Khasa Kingdom, are just a glimpse into the rich cultural legacy of the Khas people. Their contributions to the history and culture of the Indian subcontinent have shaped the region’s identity and continue to be a source of pride for the Khas community.

Ethnic Factsheet: The Khas People

Region Population Percentage
Karnali Pradesh 1,250,000 37%
Province No. 5 850,000 25%
Province No. 7 550,000 16%
Province No. 6 350,000 10%
Province No. 2 250,000 7%
Bagmati Pradesh 100,000 3%
Gandaki Pradesh 50,000 2%
Lumbini Pradesh 25,000 1%
Sudurpashchim Pradesh 25,000 1%
Khas people, (English: ; Nepali: खस) popularly known as Khas Arya, are an Indo-Aryan ethno-linguistic group native to the Himalayan region of the Indian subcontinent, in what is now the present-day South Asian country of Nepal, as well as the Indian states of  Uttarakhand, West Bengal and Sikkim. Historically, Khas were the speakers of an ancient Khas language from the Indo-Aryan language family and the earliest recorded speakers of the Western Pahari languages. The large portion of the Indo-Aryan speakers throughout lower Himalayas were the Khas people. An intrusion of this tribe from the Western and Northwestern Himalayas into Central Himalayas is substantiated by the early linguistic evidences related to the Nepali language. They were also known as Parbatiyas/Parbates and are currently known as Paharis/Pahadis. (literally, "from the hills"). They were also referred to as Yartse in Tibet and are also known as Khasan by Bhotia people. The term Khas has now become obsolete, as the Khas people have adopted communal identities because of the negative stereotypes associated with the term Khas. In Nepal the native speaker of Nepali language are known as Khas.According to the Constitution of Nepal, Bahun, Kshetris, Thakuris, and Sanyasis (Dashnami) who are citizens of Nepal should be considered as "Khas Arya" for electoral purposes.

The Ancient Heritage of Khas Ethnic Groups

Khas Ethnicity: References and Resources

References and resources to dig deeper about the Khas ethnic group:

  • Kailash Himalaya Journeys: Gurungs, Gorkhas, Gurkhas – This website provides information about the Gurung ethnic group, which is a sub-group of the Khas people. It covers their history, culture, traditions, and more.
  • Global Health Learning Center: Culture of Nepal – This e-learning module offers an overview of the cultural diversity in Nepal, including information about the Khas people and their customs.
  • The Durbar Anthropology Journal (DAN) – This academic journal publishes research articles related to various aspects of culture, society, and anthropology in Nepal. It may contain papers or studies on the Khas ethnic group.
  • ResearchGate – ResearchGate is a platform where researchers can share and access scholarly publications, including those related to the Khas people. By using the search function and relevant keywords, you may find scientific articles, books, and ethnographic studies concerning the Khas community.
  • Academia.edu – Academia.edu is another online platform that hosts a large collection of academic papers, research articles, and dissertations. You can search for materials related to the Khas people or browse research uploaded by scholars working in the field of anthropology or Nepalese studies.

Exploring these references and resources will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the Khas ethnic group, their history, cultural practices, and more. It is important to approach the topic with respect and sensitivity, ensuring that any information or knowledge you gather is used ethically and responsibly.

Explore other famous people with Deg Xitʼan, Gujjar / Gurjar and Haisla roots, showcasing the diversity of ethnic backgrounds. Delving into the lives of notable figures from various ethnic backgrounds associated with these Khas roots reveals the intricate web of connections between global cultures and their significant contributions to the world.

We have reached the end of our exploration into the extraordinary lives of prominent Khas. We hope this journey has been enlightening and inspiring.

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