Draft:Humagain History

History of the Humagain Clan

Background

The origins and history of the Humagain clan are not well-documented. There has been no systematic research into the details such as the clan deity of the Dhananjaya Gotri Humagains, the rituals for clan worship, and the locations of their settlements. The surname Humagain is written in various forms like Humagain, Homegain, and Humegain. About four years ago, after the formal establishment of the Humagain Society of Nepal, many members expressed the need to investigate the history of our ancestors. In response, I began some preliminary research.

During the course of this investigation, it was found that many believe the Humagains originated from Kavre district. One theory suggests that in Kavre Bhanjyang, Nitu Padhya used to keep cows and perform daily fire rituals using cow ghee. Impressed by his devotion, the Malla king bestowed the title "Homegain," which later became Humagain. Further research indicated that the origins of the Humagains might also be linked to Humegaun in Rawatkot VDC, Ward No. 3, in Dailekh district.

According to another perspective, the residents of Humegaun, including Nitu Padhya, moved to Kavre, and their descendants became known as Humagains.

History of the Humagain Clan

The origins and history of the Humagain clan are not well-documented. There has been no systematic research into the details such as the clan deity of the Dhananjaya Gotri Humagains, the rituals for clan worship, and the locations of their settlements. The surname Humagain is written in various forms like Humagain, Homegain, and Humegain. About four years ago, after the formal establishment of the Humagain Society of Nepal, many members expressed the need to investigate the history of our ancestors. In response, I began some preliminary research.

During the course of this investigation, it was found that many believe the Humagains originated from Kavre district. One theory suggests that in Kavre Bhanjyang, Nitu Padhya used to keep cows and perform daily fire rituals using cow ghee. Impressed by his devotion, the Malla king bestowed the title "Homegain," which later became Humagain. Further research indicated that the origins of the Humagains might also be linked to Humegaun in Rawatkot VDC, Ward No. 3, in Dailekh district.

According to another perspective, the residents of Humegaun, including Nitu Padhya, moved to Kavre, and their descendants became known as Humagains.

Key Findings from the Kavre Stone Inscription

A significant piece of evidence is a stone inscription found in Kavre Bhanjyang. The inscription, written in Sanskrit and dated back to 1816 Shaka Samvat (1951 Vikram Samvat), provides crucial information.

The inscription translates as follows:

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May prosperity be attained.

For the fulfillment of happiness and progeny, we salute Brahma, Shiva, and Parvati.

During the reign of the religious king Jagatjyoti of Bhaktapur, a Brahmin named Nityodaya was granted a beautiful land by the king. The land was made auspicious through the construction of a pond by the descendants of Nityodaya. This included the efforts of his sons and grandsons, who dedicated the land and its gardens to Lord Shiva. The inscription further details the donations and offerings made by the family over generations, underscoring their devotion and contributions to the religious landscape.

Genealogy from the Inscription

The genealogy provided by the inscription is as follows:

The stone inscription placed at the Nittayashwor Temple at Kevrey Bhanjyang

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Nitu Padhya (circa 1674-1693 Vikram Samvat)

  Jogidas

  Tularam

  Damodar

       Markandeya

       Padmavati

       Chandramanyu

       Maheshwar

       Sadashiva

       Harilal

           Shivanidhi

           Chandramani

           Laxminarayan

          Dharmadatta (circa 1951 Vikram Samvat)

Historical Perspectives

The research and local lore suggest that the Humagain surname evolved from the association with cow-keeping and daily fire rituals. The term "Humagain" might have derived from "Homegain," reflecting the family's religious activities.

Dailekh Records

In conversations with residents of Rawatkot VDC, Humegaun, Dailekh district, it was revealed that the Humagain family has been living there for around 50-60 generations. The family initially lived in Dhmal in Aksham and moved to Dailekh's Rizu village due to political disputes. The family's involvement in continuous fire rituals in Humegaun aligns with their historical religious practices.

Conclusion

The Humagain surname has a complex history, intertwined with religious devotion, migration, and royal patronage. From the stone inscriptions of Kavre to the oral histories of Dailekh, the legacy of the Humagain clan reflects a deep cultural and spiritual heritage. Understanding and documenting this history not only honors our ancestors but also provides a sense of identity and continuity for future generations.

A significant piece of evidence is a stone inscription found in Kavre Bhanjyang. The inscription, written in Sanskrit and dated back to 1816 Shaka Samvat (1951 Vikram Samvat), provides crucial information.