Social Studies grade 4 final corrected Rt 2078 (2)

Approved by the Government of Nepal, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology,
Curriculum Development Centre, Sanothimi, Bhaktapur as an Additional Learning Material

vedanta

INTEGRATED SOCIAL STUDIES

and
CREATIVE ARTS

4Grade

Authors: Youba Raj Dhakal Hritesh Shrestha

Surya Bahadur Gurung

vedanta

INTEGRATED SOCIAL STUDIES

and
CREATIVE ARTS

4Grade
Authors:
Youba Raj Dhakal Hritesh Shrestha
Surya Bahadur Gurung

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may
be reproduced, copied or transmitted in any way,
without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Design: Manoz Manohar
First Edition: B.S. 2078 (2021 A. D.)

Price: Rs. 296.00





Preface

Vedanta Integrated Social Studies and Creative Arts is a carefully graded multidimensional
text-book series of Social Studies for school-level children. The series consists of ten books
from grade one to grade ten. A team of subject experts has prepared it in adherence to the latest
national curriculum of the Curriculum Development Centre. This series aims at promoting civic
competence in the students, helping them grow into responsible, honest, dedicated, hardworking,
and influential citizens with positive attributes and a profound sense of patriotism.

Key Features of this book
The series has been designed and developed on the basis of the guidelines given by the
Curriculum Development Centre.
Each lesson begins with teaching objectives that enable students and teachers to understand
the subject matter of the lesson, plan accordingly and define learning outcomes.
The content of the lessons has been written in simple and lucid language so that the students
can study the lessons themselves and grasp the theme of the lessons. The lessons of the series
are inclusive and include the latest data and contemporary issues.
The lessons in the series have been written in various reading topics such as stories,
presentations, dialogues, letters, features, reports, speeches, and so on to make the lessons
more attention-grabbing and prevent dullness. It also makes students exposed to a variety of
reading materials.
Every lesson of the series has been equipped with artist-made content related pictures and
attractive illustrations. They have made the lessons more joyous, meaningful and engaging.
Glossary section has been introduced at the end of every lesson to make the students and
teachers familiar with new and key terms used in the lesson.
Exercise section in the series contains a wide variety of exercise ranging from objective to
subjective questions. The section not only makes an exclusive revision of the entire lesson but
also assists the teachers and facilitators in finding out whether the students have comprehended
the subject matter of the lesson or not.
Revisiting the Unit section at the end of each unit contains creative type of questions. It has
several innovative and resourceful questions which can be done in groups with the help of
the teacher or the facilitator.
At the end of the book, Vedanta Creative Corner section has attempted to make the students
familiar with the typical culture and identity of our country through visual resources.

We are earnestly indebted to Mr Suresh Kumar Regmi (Chairperson), Mr Jiwan Shrestha (Managing
Director), Mr Hukum Pd. Dahal (Academic Director), Mr Manoj Kumar Regmi (Executive Director,
Sales and Marketing), Mr Pradeep Kandel (Manager, IT Department) and all the members of
Vedanta Publication family for their entrustment and cordial assistance to bring the series to this
form. Likewise, we owe gratitude to Mr Manoz Manohar for his sincere and utter diligence in the
designing and layout part.

We have attempted to make the series student-friendly, up to date, and cogent in every possible
way. However, we are always eager to welcome feedback, comments, and constructive suggestions
from the teachers, facilitators, and readers to further improve the series. Thank you!

Authors

Table of Contents

Unit : One ME, MY FAMILY AND Unit : Six OUR PAST 145
NEIGHBOURHOOD 7 Lesson 6.1
Lesson 1.1 Lesson 6.2
Lesson 1.2 My Neighbours 9 Lesson 6.3 History of My Place 146
Lesson 1.3 Lesson 6.4
Lesson 1.4 Occupational Tools 11 Our Historical Heritages 149

Use and Care of Occupational Tools 16 Origin of the Word 'Nepal' 153

Cooperation among Neighbours 19 Our Brave Martyrs 157

Unit : Two OUR TRADITIONS, SOCIAL NORMS 24 Unit : Seven OUR ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES 163
AND VALUES
Lesson 2.1 Lesson 7.1 Working Habit 164
Lesson 2.2 Our Elders 25
Lesson 2.3 Lesson 7.2 Respect to Work 167
Lesson 2.4 Our Languages and Costumes 29
Lesson 2.5 Lesson 7.3 Economic Habit 171
Lesson 2.6 Our Festivals 33
Lesson 7.4 Products of Our Provinces 175
Our Rituals 39
Lesson 7.5 Our Economic Activities 179
Importance of Birthplace 43

Ideal People in Our District 47

Unit : Three SOCIAL PROBLEMS Unit : Eight CREATIVE ARTS 182
AND SOLUTIONS 51
Section A: Visual Art 183
Lesson 3.1 Let's Help 52 Let’s Express Ourselves through Painting 183
Let’s Draw from Observation 184
Lesson 3.2 Beware of Bad Habits 56 Let’s Draw the Pictures of Trees, Animals
and Birds 185
Lesson 3.3 Social Evils 60 Let’s Mix the Colours 186
Let’s Do Print Work 187
Lesson 3.4 Settlement of Disputes 65 Let’s Make a Collage 188
Let’s Make Different Objects from Clay 189
Lesson 3.5 Ways to Eliminate Social Evils 69 Let’s Make Different Objects from Paper 190
Let’s Make Objects from Wire 191
Lesson 3.6 Service Providing Institutions 74
Section B: Music 192
Lesson 3.7 Roles of Social Organisations 79 Let’s Do Vocal Practice 192
Let’s Play the Madal 193
Unit : Four CIVIC SENSE 83 Let’s Sing a Song 194
Lesson 4.1 Our Rights 84
Lesson 4.2 Participation of Children 89 Section C: Dance 195
Lesson 4.3 Our Natural Resources 93 Let’s Dance 195
Lesson 4.4 Our Cultural Heritages 97
Lesson 4.5 Cleaning of Public Places 101 Section D: Acting 196
Lesson 4.6 Traffic Rules 104 Let’s Act Out 196
Lesson 4.7 Rural Municipality 109
Lesson 4.8 Municipality 113 VEDANTA CREATIVE CORNER 197
Lesson 4.9 Equal Treatment 117

Unit : Five OUR EARTH 121
Lesson 5.1
Lesson 5.2 Our District 122
Lesson 5.3
Lesson 5.4 Ilam District on a Map 126
Lesson 5.5
Lesson 5.6 Origin of the Earth 129

Structure of the Earth 132

India: Our Neighbouring Country 136

Our Neighbouring Country: China 140 Approved by Curriculum Development Centre,
Sanothimi, Bhaktapur

Unit : One

ME, MY FAMILY AND
NEIGHBOURHOOD

Lessons in this unit:
1.1 My Neighbours
1.2 Occupational Tools
1.3 Use and Care of Occupational Tools
1.4 Cooperation among Neighbours

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Lesson My Neighbours

1.1 After the completion of this lesson, we will be able to:

• tell the names of people in our neighbourhood;
• tell about our relationship with our neighbours; and
• address our neighbours with different relation words.

My name is Sampada Nepali. I live in
Khaireni. Bijay, Ritika, Dorje, Sonam,
Mary and Salim live near my house.
They are my neighbours. People
who live near us are our neighbours.
We study in the same school and
always go to our school together.
We have fun when we study, play
and work together.

One Saturday, we were playing hide and seek with our friends in the
morning. An elderly man from our village came and said, “Dashain is
close around. It is our greatest festival. It is time to clean our village.
Please inform all villagers to assemble with broomsticks, spades and
sickles. We have to remove dust, and unnecessary plants from our
houses and road.” We were so happy. We liked his idea of keeping
our village and neighbourhood clean.

We called our parents, Hiralal Kaka, Mahima Didi, Sanju Kaki,
Rabindra Mama, and other villagers. We used respectful words while
calling them. Our Social Studies teacher had taught us to address
our neighbours respectfully all the time. It shows good manner and
improves our relationship with them. All villagers gathered with
sweeping and cleaning tools after having meal.

8 Me, My Family and Neighbourhood Approved by Curriculum Development Centre,
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Phurwa Baje started cleaning the
Chautara, and everyone joined him.
Some people cleaned local taps and
temples, and some people cut grass
and removed weeds from the road.
Our village looked neat and tidy. We
were proud of our labour. We came
to know that it is always exciting
when we do anything together. We
can complete our work quickly and
get support from one another.

assemble GLOSSARY
spade
labour : to gather people into one group
: a tool with a heavy metal blade used for digging
: physical or mental work

EXERCISE

(1) Choose the right answer and fill in the blanks.
(a) Our neighbours live ....................... us. (next to, far from)
(b) It is always ............................... when we study, play and
work together with our friends. (boring, exciting)
(c) We should always use ............................... words while
addressing our neighbours. (rude, respectful)
(d) Keeping the village and neighbourhood clean is a
............................... work. (good, bad)
(e) We can complete our work ............................... when we
together work in a group. (quickly, carelessly)

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(2) Answer the following questions.
(a) Who are neighbours?
(b) Name any six friends from your neighbourhood.
(c) How can you help your neighbours? Write any three
ways.
(d) Why should we address our neighbours politely all the
time?
(e) Why is it exciting when we do anything together in a
group?

(3) Complete the given table by writing down the names
of your neighbours and your relationship with them.
Mention what you call them. Look at the examples
below:

Name of the Your How you address
neighbour relationship
Uncle Dhruba Kaka
Dhruba Shrestha Elder sister Ambika Didi
Ambika Musahar

Community Work

Take part in a cleaning campaign of a road or a public
place with your neighbours, and share your experience
with your friends.

10 Me, My Family and Neighbourhood Approved by Curriculum Development Centre,
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Lesson Occupational Tools

1.2 After the completion of this lesson, we will be able to:

• make a list of tools used in our house; and
• tell the importance of different occupational tools.

People from our neighbourhood do different work to earn money
for food, clothing, shelter, and other needs. Such work or jobs that
people do for their living are called occupations. Some people
work on the farm while some work in industries. Some people
do business, and some are involved in service. People of every
occupation need different instruments to carry out their work or
job. Such instruments or devices necessary for any occupation are
occupational tools. Occupational tools differ from occupations to
occupations.

Farming is a major occupation in
our country. Most of the people in
our country grow crops and keep
animals on the farm. They need
different tools, such as plough,
yoke, spade, sickle, and sprayer.
They use a plough to dig and
turn over the soil to prepare the
soil for planting. A yoke is a bar
or frame attached to the necks of
oxen so that they can pull the plough. Similarly, they use a spade
for digging, and a sickle for cutting grass and grains. They use a
sprayer for spraying chemical liquid for plants. They need bamboo
baskets such as Doko, Dalo, and Thunse to carry grains, grass,
firewood, water vessels, and compost manure. Many farmers use
modern tools such as tractor and tiller these days.

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Just as farmers, carpenters also
need various occupational tools
to make or fix different wooden
objects. They need a saw to cut
wood or other hard material; a
chisel to cut and shape a wood or
other solid material; and a hammer
for hitting nails or breaking things
apart. Likewise, they need a planer
for smoothing the surface of a
board and a driller for making
holes in hard substances. They use screws and nails to hold things
together or to attach things.

Doctors need different tools to
treat sick and injured people. They
need a thermometer to measure
the temperature of the human
body; a stethoscope to listen to
patients’ heartbeat and breathing;
and surgical scissors for separating
or cutting. They use a bandage to
protect or support the part of the
body that has been hurt.

Tailors stitch clothes for us. They
need different tools to stitch them.
They need a sewing machine to
sew and stitch clothes; a measuring
tape to measure clothes; and
scissors to cut clothes into different
size. Likewise, they need needles,
threads and buttons in their work.

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In this way, people use different tools to carry out their work
according to their occupations. Such tools make their work easier
and faster. They can complete their work in time because of such
tools. Each occupational tool has its own importance. We cannot
do the task of a tool with another tool. Some sharp occupational
tools are dangerous and risky. One needs to be careful while using
them. Some of such tools are expensive too. Therefore, we have to
keep such tools in a proper place after using them.

tiller GLOSSARY
surgical
involved : a tool used for preparing land for growing crops
: related to surgery or operation
: actively participated in something

EXERCISE

(1) Write true for right and false for wrong statements.
(a) People of all occupations use similar types
of occupational tools.
(b) Farmers use saws, pliers and chisels for
their work.
(c) Occupational tools make our work easier
and faster.
(d) We should be careful while using sharp and
costly tools.
(e) Every occupational tool has its own value.

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(2) Write the names of the following occupational tools.

spade sickle plough yoke
chisel hammer plainer saw
scissors thermometer sthethoscope bandage
pliers shovel sewing machine screwdriver

14 Me, My Family and Neighbourhood Approved by Curriculum Development Centre,
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(3) Match the following tools with their uses.

(a) Sickle digging and turning over soil

(b) Plough cutting grass and grains

(c) Saw making holes in wood

(d) Stethoscope cutting wood or hard material

(e) Drill listening to the patient’s heartbeat
(4) Answer the following questions.

(a) What are occupational tools?
(b) Why do farmers need bamboo baskets?
(c) Why do people use different tools in their work?
(d) We should be careful while using sharp occupational

tools. Why?
(e) Make a list of any five occupational tools that your

parents use in their work.
(5) Draw the pictures of sickle, saw, Khukuri, thermometer,

spade and shovel.

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Lesson Use and Care of
Occupational Tools
1.3
After the completion of this lesson, we will be able to:

• tell the names of occupations that people follow in
our neighbourhood;

• tell proper ways to use various occupational tools; and
• tell the ways to take care of occupational tools and

store them safely.

We have already studied in the previous lesson that occupational
tools make our work easier and faster. We need to use those tools
safely and carefully. We should be
very careful while using them. After
using them, we have to keep them in
a safe and proper place. We should
always keep them out of reach of
small children. Some occupational
tools are sharp and dangerous to
play with. But, small children are
not aware of the possible risks. So,
they may play with such tools, and
it can cause accidental risks like cut,
burn and injury.
Some occupational tools cost a lot of money. Little carelessness
in using them can cost high loss. In the same way, some tools are
heavy. Some children try to move them from one place to another.
While doing so, those heavy tools can fall over them or their body
parts. Such fallings can cause deep injury. Some occupational tools
need high skill to operate. When unskilled people try to operate
them, they get damaged. Their repair can cost a huge amount of
money. If we see any occupational tools not in their proper place,

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we have to request the elders to keep them in their rightful places.
If they are light and not sharp, we can also keep them in suitable
places ourselves.

We should develop the habit of keeping
occupational tools in their own place
after using them. If we have the habit
of keeping them in the right place, we
can find them whenever we need. We
do not need to spend time searching
them. Some of the occupational tools
such as sewing machine, printer and
drill need servicing from time to time.
We shouldn’t forget to service them. In
this way, we should know the right use
of occupational tools and ways to take
care of them.

servicing GLOSSARY

: work done to repair a machine or vehicle or to keep
it in good condition

EXERCISE

(1) Fill in the blanks with suitable answers.
(a) One should be very .................................. while using
any occupational tools.
(b) We should always keep all occupational tools out of
reach of small ........................... .
(c) Little .................................. in handling occupational
tools can cost a lot of money.

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(d) Even children can keep occupational tools in their proper
place if they are not .................................. or heavy.

(e) Some occupational tools, such as printer and sewing
machine need .................................. from time to time.

(2) Answer the following questions.
(a) Why should we use occupational tools safely and
carefully?
(b) What happens when unskilled people try to operate
occupational tools?
(c) What should we do if we see any occupational tools
lying here and there?
(d) Why should we always keep all occupational tools in the
proper place?
(e) Write any three ways to take care of occupational tools.

(3) Make a list of different tools in your house. Write down
their uses and ways to take care of them.

Tools Use Ways to take care
axe chopping keep out of reach of children, do not
wood keep in a damp place for a long time

18 Me, My Family and Neighbourhood Approved by Curriculum Development Centre,
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Lesson Cooperation among
Neighbours
1.4
After the completion of this lesson, we will be able to:

• find out the areas to exchange mutual help with our
neighbours;

• identify areas to help our neighbours; and
• exchange mutual help with others.

Hello friends! I am Reeya Shrestha. I live in Dhading Bensi. Rita,
Reema, Sarada, Mohammad, and Joseph are my neighbours. I
borrow ink from them when I am short of it. I also help them by
lending a pen and notebook when they need them. We have a
good relationship with our neighbours. We help one another on
different occasions.
We reaped our paddy a couple of weeks ago. Several workers had
come to help us in our work. We did not have enough sickles and
Nanglos. I borrowed them from my neighbours. When the work
was over, I gave those tools back to them. We also lent our spade
to Baburam Uncle last week.
Rita Chapagain is my close
neighbour. A landslide destroyed
her shed last Friday. My family
helped them to reconstruct a new
shed near the house. Sitaram Uncle,
Chhiring Didi, Santa Mama and
Bishnu Aunt came to help them.
When all joined them, the work
was faster and lighter. Working in
a team was fun. They shared their

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pains and sorrows while building the shed. We got a chance to
know more about each other during the construction. We are
always ready to help our neighbours in one another’s work.
Reema’s house caught fire several
months ago. Her brother was
playing with fire near a heap of
straw. It caught fire, and it spread
up to her house. Her neighbours
came with buckets of water to put
out the fire. Some of them threw soil
on the burning fire. Luckily, the fire
couldn’t spread much. Her family
and neighbours extinguished it in
time. Reema’s brother, Ranjan, felt
sorry for his mistake. He promised not to repeat such a mistake
next time.

The neighbours in my village have
the culture of helping one another on
various occasions such as wedding
ceremony, Bratabandha ceremony
and festivals. They also help others
during accidents, sickness, and all
cases. When Sarada’s brother met
a bike accident, our neighbours
called an ambulance and took him
to the hospital for treatment. Rita’s
elder sister got married in Baisakh. All neighbours helped her family
in the wedding. Joseph’s sister helped to make the bride ready.
Mohammad’s father and Reema’s father prepared food for the
guests. All villagers helped to clean their house and surroundings.
Even Joseph and Reema distributed water for the guests. Rita’s
father was thankful to all the villagers.

20 Me, My Family and Neighbourhood Approved by Curriculum Development Centre,
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In this way, we should always be ready to help our neighbours in
times of need and problem. If we help others in need, they will
also help us in return. Likewise, our relationship gets better with
our neighbours when we help each other. Helping neighbours is a
great way to feel better about ourselves. Our life becomes easier,
secure, meaningful and satisfied.

GLOSSARY

reaped : cut and collected crops from a field

heap : a large, disordered pile of things

extinguished : caused something to stop burning

EXERCISE

(1) Write true for right and false for wrong statements.
(a) We should always be ready to help our
neighbours.
(b) We shouldn’t lend anything to our
neighbours.
(c) It is not necessary to return the borrowed
things to our neighbours.
(d) Our relationship gets better with our
neighbours when we help each other.
(e) We should always try to understand the
problems of our neighbours.

(2) Answer the following questions.
(a) How can you help your neighbours? Write any three
ways.

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(b) Why should we always help our neighbours?
(c) How do you feel when you receive help from your

neighbours in need? Write your experience.
(d) When was the last time your family helped your

neighbours, or your neighbours helped your family?
Write your own practical experience.

(3) How can you help your neighbours in the following
situations?
(a) When someone's house catches fire.
(b) When there is a marriage ceremony in someone's house.
(c) When someone meets an accident.
(d) When someone is sick.

(4) What things have you lent to your neighbours, and
what things have you borrowed from them? Fill in the
following table.

Things borrowed from Things lent to
neighbours neighbours
Vegetables
Cooking utensils

22 Me, My Family and Neighbourhood Approved by Curriculum Development Centre,
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Revisiting the Unit

(1) Give any four examples of the following.
(a) Occupations tools of a farmer
(b) Occupational tools of a carpenter
(c) Tools a doctor uses in his or her work
(d) Occupational tools of a tailor
(e) Situations in which we need each other’s help in the
neighbourhood

(2) Write short paragraphs on the following topics.
(a) My Neighbours
(b) Ways to Take Care of Occupational Tools
(c) How I Can Help My Neighbours

(3) Write creative answers to the following questions.
(a) Choose any three occupations of your choice except
a farmer, a carpenter and a doctor. Name any four
occupational tools that they use.
(b) Make a list of any five helpful activities that you have
done for your neighbours.

(4) What can you see in the following pictures? Describe
in a short paragraph.

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Unit : Two

OUR TRADITIONS, SOCIAL
NORMS AND VALUES

Lessons in this unit:
2.1 Our Elders
2.2 Our Languages and Costumes
2.3 Our Festivals
2.4 Our Rituals
2.5 Importance of Birthplace
2.6 Ideal People in Our District

24 Our Traditions, Social Norms and Values Approved by Curriculum Development Centre,
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Lesson Our Elders

2.1 After the completion of this lesson, we will be able to:

• obey useful advice, suggestions and instructions
that elders give;

• express our opinions on harmful or wrong advice
and suggestions of our elders; and

• express our opinions with elders in a polite way
without fear and hesitation.

Pasang lives with her parents and
uncle in one of the villages in Jumla.
Everyone loves Pasang at her home
and school. It is because she always
respects people who are of greater
age than her. She always obeys them
and uses polite words while talking
with them.
One day, Pasang was playing outside her house. Her uncle came
from the farm and called her. Here is a conversation between Pasang
and her uncle:
Uncle : Pasang! Where are you? Come here, little girl!
Pasang : Yes, uncle. Here I am. How can I help you?
Uncle : I am so thirsty? Can you bring some water for me,

please?
(Pasang washes her hands with soap and water, goes inside her
house and brings a vessel of water.)

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Pasang : Uncle, here is water for you.
Uncle :
Pasang : Good girl. Now, will you bring a packet of tobacco
from Sanumaya’s shop for me?
Uncle :
Uncle, please forgive me. I cannot do it. Our
Pasang : teacher has taught us that chewing tobacco and
Uncle : smoking are injurious to health. They cause various
Pasang : diseases such as mouth cancer, asthma and gum
diseases. They can even take our life. Please quit
chewing tobacco. It spoils our health and life.

You are right. You have learnt many good things
in your school. Many parents in our village do not
send their daughters to school. They make them
do household work only. But, you have made our
family proud. I am proud of you Pasang. From
today, I promise that I will never chew tobacco and
smoke cigarettes.

Thank you, uncle. You are really good.

You opened my eyes today, Pasang. I had forgotten
that children learn so many things from their
parents, family and senior members.

Yes, our teachers often say that elders or senior
people are more experienced than us. They have
learnt so many things in their life. So, we should
always develop the habit of listening to them. Their
experience and suggestion can be a guideline for
children like us.

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Uncle : Yes, we should always respect and listen to seniors.
But, you should not obey everything that elders say.
You should learn to reject and avoid wrong activities
in a polite way. You should obey their useful advice
and reject the wrong ones. Sometimes, you cannot
decide what is right or wrong. You can take help
of your parents at that time. They never think of
anything bad for you.

Pasang : Yes, uncle. I promise that I will always remember
what you have taught me. Let's go inside to have
meal, uncle.

(Both of them enter their house.)

injurious GLOSSARY
asthma
: harmful
guideline : a physical condition that makes it difficult for

someone to breathe
: a rule or instruction that shows or tells how to do

something

EXERCISE

(1) Write true for right and false for wrong statements.
(a) We should always respect our elders.
(b) Chewing tobacco and smoking do not
harm our health.
(c) All parents should make their
daughters do household work only.

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(d) One should not obey the elders
blindly.

(e) Our parents always think of our
betterment.

(2) Answer the following questions.
(a) Why should we respect our elders?
(b) Why are chewing tobacco and smoking harmful to
health?
(c) How can we respect our elders?
(d) What can we do if we cannot decide which is right and
which is wrong?
(e) Write any three good habits that you have learnt from
your elders.

(3) What would you do in the following situations?
(a) If a senior person tells you to go to graze goats instead
of going to school.
(b) If your mother requests you to help in the kitchen when
you are free.
(c) When one of your relatives request you to go to buy a
packet of cigarettes.
(d) When a senior person of your locality requests you to
attend a cleanliness programme of public places.
(e) When an elder person touches your inappropriately.

28 Our Traditions, Social Norms and Values Approved by Curriculum Development Centre,
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Lesson Our Languages and
Costumes
2.2
After the completion of this lesson, we will be able to:

• identify various languages spoken in our
community, and make their list;

• tell the names of costumes that people wear in our
community; and

• demonstrate similar behaviour to people who wear
different costumes and speak different languages in
our class and community.

Nepal is a country of diversity. People speak different languages
and wear different types of clothes in our country. In fact, people
speak some 123 languages in Nepal. They wear different kinds of
clothes according to the climate, castes, festivals and religions.
Both language and costume are our identities. People can know
more about us with the help of the language we speak and the
clothes we wear.

People of different ethnic groups live in Nepal. They are Chhetris,
Brahmins, Gurungs, Limbus, Magars, Rais, Newars, Tharus, Rajbansis,

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Dhimals, Sherpas, Yadavs, and so on. They speak different languages
such as Nepali, Maithili, Bhojpuri, Tharu, Tamang, Newari, Magar,
Tamang, and Sherpa. Nepal is a multilingual country as people
speak different languages here. All the languages spoken in Nepal
are the languages of the nation. The Nepali language is the official
language of Nepal. It is also the common language among speakers
of other languages. It means people who speak other languages
like Newari, Bhojpuri, Tharu, and Sherpa can also understand and
speak the Nepali language. Almost every Nepali can understand
and speak the Nepali language. People speak various languages in
our country, but they live in harmony like a family.

People wear different costumes in Nepal. Generally, people living
in the Himalayan Region wear thick clothes like Bhoto, Docha and
Bakkhu. Likewise, people living in the Hilly Region wear Daura,
Suruwal, Kachhad, Patuka, and Topi. Similarly, people wear Dhoti,
Kurta, and Lungi in the Terai Region. People of different ethnic
groups wear different sets of clothes according to their castes.

30 Our Traditions, Social Norms and Values Approved by Curriculum Development Centre,
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Castes Males Females
sari, blouse, Kurta
Brahmin and Daura, Suruwal, Topi, suruwal, t-shirt, jeans
Chhetri shirt, pant, coat, jeans Haku Patasi, Gunyu choli

Newar Bhadgaunle Topi, Cholia (Choli), Nahagi (a
Daura Suruwal white cloth dress) and
Uporona (a cloth worn
Tharu Mardani (dhoti) and around the chest area)
Phad (Kachhad- a
piece of cloth worn to Gunyu choli, Ghalek (a
cover the lower part cloth that hangs from a
of the body) shoulder to the opposite
waist)
Gurung Bhoto, Jama Phariya, Patuki, Cholo,
(Lehenga-like Khasto
garment)

Rai and Daura suruwal, Dhaka
Limbu topi

Females wear different objects as jewellery in different parts of the
country. They wear Dhungri in the ear, Bulaki in the nose, Tilahari in
the neck, Churi (bangles) in hand, and Pauju in the feet.

In this way, people wear various costumes and ornaments in Nepal.
They speak different languages. However, they always live in
harmony. They believe that every Nepali costume and language is
equally important. They respect one another's lifestyle. We must
preserve our costumes and languages because they are our identity.

diversity GLOSSARY

costume : the quality or state of having many different forms,
harmony types, ideas, etc.

: the clothes that someone wears
: living together in a peaceful and friendly way

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EXERCISE

(1) Fill in the blanks with suitable words.

(a) People can know more about us with the help of
........................ we speak and ........................ we wear.

(b) ........................ is the common language among the
speakers of other languages.

(c) People speak various languages in our country, but they
live in ........................ like a family.

(d) The women of the ............................ community wear
Haku Patasi, and the women of the ........................
community wear Ghalek.

(e) Many females wear ........................ in the neck and
........................ in the feet in Nepal.

(2) Give any three examples of each.
(a) Languages spoken in Nepal
(b) A set of clothes worn in the Himalayan Region of Nepal
(c) Costumes worn in the Hilly Region of Nepal
(d) Costumes worn in the Terai Region of Nepal
(e) Ornaments that women wear in our country

(3) Answer the following questions.
(a) Name any six caste groups that live in Nepal.
(b) How can you say that Nepal is a multilingual country?
(c) Which is the official language of Nepal?
(d) Why do people wear different kinds of clothes in Nepal?
(e) Why should we preserve all costumes and languages of
our country?

32 Our Traditions, Social Norms and Values Approved by Curriculum Development Centre,
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Lesson Our Festivals

2.3 After the completion of this lesson, we will be able to:

• obtain information about our local culture and
tradition;

• attain information about various festivals observed
in our community;

• tell activities performed during various festivals; and
• participate in the festivals celebrated in our family.

People observe many festivals according to their religions, castes
and regions in our country. Festivals are occasions when they
celebrate some special events. We get chances to meet our family,
relatives and neighbours during festivals. We can get opportunity
to share our happiness and sorrow. Festivals also provide chances
for us to wear new clothes and eat delicious food items. Some of
the important festivals celebrated in Nepal are described below.

(1) Lhosar

The Sherpas, the Gurungs, the
Thakalis, and the Tamangs of
the northern Himalayan region
celebrate Lhosar. This festival
marks the beginning of the New
Year. They wear new clothes, eat
tasty food, sing and dance. They
also exchange greetings and wish
for other’s long life, good health,
progress and richness.

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(2) Chhath

The people of the Terai region,
especially of Dhanusha, Saptari,
Siraha, Sunsari, Mahottari, Morang,
Parsa and Bara districts, celebrate
Chhath. It usually falls in the month
of Kartik. People have started to
celebrate this festival even in the
Kathmandu Valley these days. They
worship Sun as the God of energy
and of life force at this festival. It is
the biggest and important festival celebrated in the eastern and
mid-Terai region. People believe that they can get rid of their skin
diseases by worshipping the Sun God after this festival.

(3) Maghi

People observe Maghi on the 1st
of Magh every year. Another name
of this festival is Maghe Sankranti.
Hindu devotees celebrate this
festival with different ceremonies
and programmes across the nation.
On this occasion, the devotees take
a holy dip in rivers and feast on
yams, ghee and different delicious
food items. Newars eat ghee, Chaku and special food to celebrate
the day. Similarly, Tharus mark the festival by taking a dip in rivers
and receiving blessings from elders. They celebrate Maghi as the
beginning of the new year.

34 Our Traditions, Social Norms and Values Approved by Curriculum Development Centre,
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(4) Gaura Parva

People of Western Nepal celebrate
this festival by worshipping Goddess
Parvati. They perform Deuda dance
and songs at this festival. It generally
falls in Bhadra.

(5) Eid

Eid is an Islamic religious festival.
People fast for one month, exchange
gifts and have a festive meal at this
festival. They recite the Quran, read
Namaz and sacrifice animals in this
festival. They also help poor and
needy people at Eid.

(6) Siruwa Parba

On the occasion of New Year, people
of Maithili, Tharu, Rajbanshi and
Satar communities celebrate Siruwa
Parwa. They throw mud and colour
among themselves at this festival.
They also worship their family
god. They invite their relatives and
celebrate the festival together.

(7) Matatirtha Aunsi and Kushe Aunsi

People celebrate Matatirtha Aunsi on the no moon day of Baishakh.
They pay respect to their mother on this day. Children keep their
mothers happy by offering delicious food with delight, respect and
honour. People who do not have mothers usually go to Matatirtha
in Kathmandu, take a holy bath and remember their mothers.

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Kushe Aunsi falls on the no moon day of Bhadra each year. People
respect their fathers with great devotion by offering food items of
their choice and receive blessings from them on this day. Those
who do not have father go to Gokarna where they offer money to
gods after a bath. Those who cannot go there offer money and
foods at home.

(8) Mani Rimbu

It is a festival of locals of Tibetan and Sherpa communities. On
this occasion, Lamas wear masks to perform the dance to reflect the
images of gods and goddesses. They wish good health, happiness
and peace to all devotees. People eat delicious food items at home.

(9) Badkaiitbar Festival

People of the Chaudhary community celebrate this festival on
the last Sunday in Bhadra. They invite their relatives to their home
and organise a feast on that day. They sing and dance after the
feast.

Sometimes our friends may invite us to their houses during festivals.
We should accept their invitation and take part in their festivals
after taking permission from our parents. We can also invite them
to our homes during festivals. It improves our relationship with
them. We should never spend too much money in the name of
festival celebration.

get rid of GLOSSARY
devotee
yam : take action so as to be free of an unwanted thing
: a strong believer in a religion or god
devotion : a long, thick root of a tropical plant with yellow or

white flesh eaten as a vegetable
: religious worship or observance

36 Our Traditions, Social Norms and Values Approved by Curriculum Development Centre,
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EXERCISE

(1) Name the following festivals.





(2) In which months do we usually celebrate these festivals?
Match.
(a) Chhath Baishakh
(b) Maghi Bhadra
(c) Gaura Parba Kartik
(d) Siruwa Parba Shrawan
(e) Saune Sankranti Magh

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(3) Write one-word answers to the following questions.
(a) Which festival marks the beginning of the New Year
among the Tamang, Gurung and Sherpa communities?
..................................................
(b) Which is the biggest and the most important festival
celebrated in the eastern and mid-Terai region?
..................................................
(c) People of which community celebrate Maghi as the
beginning of the New Year?
..................................................
(d) People of which community observe Siruwa Parba?
..................................................
(e) In which month do the people of the Chaudhary
community celebrate Badkaiitbar?
..................................................

(4) Answer the following questions.
(a) Why are festivals important? Write their significance in
three points.
(b) Who celebrate Lhosar and Chhath?
(c) What do people do at Maghi?
(d) How do people celebrate Eid and Siruwa Parba?
(e) How is Matatirtha Aunsi different from Kushe Aunsi?
Write any two differences.

(5) In which months and days do the festivals mentioned
in this lesson fall this year? Consult a calendar of this
year and write.

38 Our Traditions, Social Norms and Values Approved by Curriculum Development Centre,
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Lesson Our Rituals

2.4 After the completion of this lesson, we will be able to:

• obtain information about our local culture and
tradition;

• attain information about various rituals observed in
our community; and

• participate in the rituals practised in our family.

We perform different series of acts in the same way. Such ceremonies
that mark important religious or social occasions are our rituals.
Chhaiti, Nwaran, Pasni, Chhewar, Bratabandha, Marriage, Ihi and
Bhim Ratha Rohan are some common rituals practised in Nepal.
People perform these rituals from birth to death. They differ from
one caste and religion to another.

(1) Chhaiti

It is a Hindu practice observed on the sixth day of the birth
of a child. There is a belief that Bhabi (Goddess of destiny) would
quietly enter the house around midnight to pen the destiny of the
newborn baby at night that day. A lamp is lit around the baby for
the whole night.

(2) Nwaran

It is a practice observed normally after eleven days from the
date of birth of a child. The child is given a formal name to address
him or her on that day. Mother and child are purified on this day.

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(3) Pasni

It is a practice of feeding rice
to a child for the first time after his
or her birth. A male child is usually
fed rice in six months, and a female
child is usually fed in five months.

(4) Chudakarm

It is a Hindu practice of cutting the hair of the boy for the
first time after his birth leaving a tuft of hair. It is also known as
Chhewar in some communities. The
boy is taken to a shed. As per the
horoscope, a man cuts the boy’s
hair. The hair is put on a basket and
cast on the river. People dance and
sing throughout the night. In the
morning, the boy’s maternal uncle
offers gifts and new clothes. Other
people also offer several gifts to
the boy.

(5) Bratabandha

It is an important Hindu ceremony in which a boy wears a sacred
thread (janai) in his body. It is also known as Upanayansanskar.

(6) Ihi

It is a popular Newari tradition of marrying girls away to
Subarna Kumar (an avatar of Lord Bishnu) before she becomes
young. It is also known as 'Bel Bibaha'.

40 Our Traditions, Social Norms and Values Approved by Curriculum Development Centre,
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(7) Bhim Ratha Rohan (Janku)

This ritual is done to an old person who has reached 77 years
old in the Newar community. The grandsons carry the person’s
chariot on their shoulders and visit temples of god and goddess.

destiny GLOSSARY
lit
tuft : fate, an event that will certainly happen in future
horoscope : past tense of light
: a small bunch of hairs growing close together
: advice and future predictions based on the date of

a person’s birth and the positions of the stars and
planets

EXERCISE

(1) Fill in the blanks with suitable names of rituals.

(a) People observe this ritual on the sixth

day of the birth of a child. ................................

(b) It is observed normally after eleven days
from the date of birth of a child. ................................

(c) It is also known as rice feeding
ceremony. ................................

(d) It is known as Chhewar in some
communities. ................................

(e) It is a Hindu ceremony in which a boy
wears a sacred thread (janai). ................................

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(f) It is also known as Bel Bibaha in Newari
tradition. ................................

(g) It is done to an old person who has

reached 77 years. ................................

(2) Write whether these statements are true or false.
(a) People perform several rituals from birth
to death.
(b) People of all castes and religions have
similar rituals.
(c) People usually feed rice to a male baby for
the first time after five months.
(d) Ihi is a tradition prevalent in the Newari
community only.
(e) We should always take part in the rituals
practised in our family.

(3) Answer these questions.
(a) What are our rituals?
(b) Name any six common rituals practised in our country.
(c) What type of ritual is Chhaiti?
(d) What do people do on the day of Nwaran of a baby?
(e) Introduce Bratabandha in a sentence.
(f) Write a difference between Ihi and Bhim Ratha Rohan.

42 Our Traditions, Social Norms and Values Approved by Curriculum Development Centre,
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Lesson Importance of Birthplace

2.5 After the completion of this lesson, we will be able to:

• identify important features of our birthplace and
make their list;

• tell the importance of our birthplace;
• tell the reasons why we love our birthplace; and
• love and admire our birthplace.

hggL hGdel" dZr :jufb{ kL u/Lo;L

"“Mother and motherland are superior to heaven."”
It is a famous saying in the Sanskrit language taken from the
Ramayana, the great Sanskrit epic of the Hindus.
It is also our national motto. We can see it even on our national
emblem. Our birthplace is the place where we were born. It is our
motherland. Our mother gives us birth, and our motherland gives
us our identity. We learn about many things from our birthplace.
We learn about our culture, traditions and customs from our
motherland. So, we should love and protect our birthplace.
Nepal is our motherland. We were
born here. We all are proud of
our birthplace. It is the land of Mt
Everest, the highest peak in the
world. It is the country of brave
warriors. They never bowed their
head in front of their enemies. Nepal
is also the birthplace of Gautam
Buddha. He founded Buddhism.
There are many followers of

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Buddhism in many countries like Nepal,
Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar, Bhutan,
and Japan. There are many places
full of natural beauty in Nepal. Some
of them are Pokhara, Ilam, Khaptad,
and Chitwan. Pashupatinath, Lumbini,
Gorkha Palace, Changunarayan Temple,
Kathmandu Durbar Square, Patan
Durbar Square, and Bhaktapur Durbar
Square are important historical and
religious places of Nepal. These ancient
temples, palaces and buildings show our
art and skill. Our country is also known
as the 'country of temples'.
In this way, many things and features make our country popular
in the world. It is our duty to promote such places and things of
national pride. We must preserve them for future generations. Our
country is our pride and identity.
When we visit any foreign nation, people recognise us with the
name of our country. Our behaviour represents our country. If we
show good behaviour, other people will believe that all Nepalese
are good people, and if we show any bad behaviour, they will
consider that all Nepalese are bad. We should always try to do
things that make our country proud.
Let’s read a story that teaches us the importance of our birthplace.

Lord Ram invaded the Kingdom of Ravan. It was a beautiful
place. It was good all over. The houses were beautiful, and the
streets were clean. There were parks with beautiful trees. Two
brothers, Ram and Laxman, travelled all over the kingdom.
Laxman enjoyed it a lot. Lanka was more majestic than their
own kingdom, Ayodhya.

44 Our Traditions, Social Norms and Values Approved by Curriculum Development Centre,
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Laxman said to Rama, “Lanka is very beautiful. I don’t want to
abandon it. Our Ayodhya isn’t as beautiful as Lanka. Let’s settle
down here, brother.” Trying to persuade his brother, Rama said,
“Look, brother! The place and the land of others must not lure
us. We love our birthplace. Lanka and its gold are good, but they
are not ours. Our motherland is dear to us."
"Our mother and birthplace are greater than heaven. So, we
should go back to Ayodhya and make it even more beautiful."
They returned Ayodhya after that.

epic GLOSSARY
motto
emblem : a long poem telling of a hero’s deeds
: a favourite saying of a group or country
bowed : special design or symbol representation a country
invaded
or a quality
majestic : agreed to do or accepted something
: entered a place in order to take control by military

force
: large and impressively beautiful

EXERCISE

(1) Fill in the blanks with suitable words.
(a) We learn about many things from our ..............................
(b) Ancient temples, palaces and buildings of Nepal show
our ..................................... and skill.
(c) We must preserve places and things of national pride
for ..................................... generations.

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(d) Our ..................................... represents our country in a
foreign land.

(e) Lord Ram and Laxman were from ...................................
kingdom.

(2) Answer the following questions.
(a) What is our national motto? Write.
(b) Why should we love and protect our birthplace?
(c) Mention any three things that make our country proud
in the world.
(d) How do people recognise us in a foreign nation?
(e) In the story of the lesson, whose talk did you like – Ram’s
or Laxman’s? Why?

(3) Give any four examples of each.
(a) Countries where people follow Buddhism
(b) Places full of natural beauty in Nepal
(c) Brave warriors of Nepal
(d) Mountains that lie in our country
(e) Things of your birthplace that you like the most

(4) "Our mother and birthplace are greater than heaven."
Explain the statement.

(5) Write a paragraph about the place you live in.

46 Our Traditions, Social Norms and Values Approved by Curriculum Development Centre,
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Lesson Ideal People in Our District

2.6

After the completion of this lesson, we will be able to:

• tell the names of people who work for social welfare
in our district; and

• honour such ideal people, and try to follow their path.

Hello, everyone! I am Reena Bhandari from Myagdi. I am going to
tell you about ideal people in my district today.
Shanti Sherchan is a famous literary figure in our district. Her poems
are famous. She has also composed several songs and stories. Her
compositions are full of the feeling of patriotism and love towards
her birthplace. She always appeals to all people to get united for
the progress of the country through her creations.
Puspa Basnet is a famous
teacher in our district. She has an
experience of more than twenty
years in the teaching field. She
has played an important role
to establish several primary
schools in the district. Besides
being a teacher, she is also a
scout leader. She trains scouts.
She also counsels women about
child care, nutrition, family
planning and pregnancy. Not only the people of our district, but
the people from other districts also admire her.
Resham Bishwokarma is a well-known social reformer of our
district. He has brought many positive changes to our society. He

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visits different villages to observe
how development is going on.
People of all age groups know him.
He believes that the progress of a
nation begins with the development
of villages. He has solved the
problem of drinking water in
several villages of our district. He
has played an important role in
improving the conditions of roads
in many villages. He reaches out to
people in their problems.

Ramlal Tharu is a well-known mediator. He settles all types of
quarrels fairly in our district. He solves conflicts without supporting
any party. He has played a significant role in maintaining peace, law
and order in our district.

In this way, Shanti Sherchan, Pushpa Basnet, Resham Bishwokarma
and Ramlal Tharu are ideal people of my district. They work for the
welfare of other people. Their support brings positive changes in
our society. They are great persons. We must respect them for their
contribution. We should also follow their path and try to be like
them.

GLOSSARY

compositions : written pieces of music, poems or songs

appeals : asks for something in a polite way

counsels : gives advice

reformer : a person who works to change and improve society

mediator : a person who tries to settle an argument between
two persons or groups

48 Our Traditions, Social Norms and Values Approved by Curriculum Development Centre,
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EXERCISE

(1) Write true for right and false for wrong statements.

(a) All citizens of a nation must be united for
the development of the country.

(b) A country can progress even if villages are
backwards.

(c) We should always try to settle minor disputes
within our own society.

(d) Ideal people do not work for the welfare of
other people.

(e) We should always follow the path of ideal
people and try to be like them.

(2) Answer the following questions.

(a) What does a social reformer do?
(b) Who is a mediator? What does he or she do?
(c) What type of people are ideal people?
(d) Why should we respect the ideal people of our district?
(e) What sorts of work should you do if you want to become

a famous person in your district?

(3) There must be an ideal person similar to the ones
mentioned in the lesson in your district too. Write a
short paragraph about him or her. Mention the work
which has brought positive changes to your society.

(4) Suppose you got a chance to meet a famous person
from your district. What questions would you ask him
or her? Make a list of sample questions.

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Revisiting the Unit

(1) Give any four examples of the following.
(a) Places of historical importance in our country
(b) Festivals celebrated in Nepal
(c) Ethnic groups who celebrate Lhosar
(d) Districts in Nepal where people celebrate Chhath

(2) Write short paragraphs on the following topics.
(a) My Favourite Festival (b) My Birthplace

(3) Write creative answers to the following questions.
(a) Many children prefer to wear foreign costumes and
speak foreign languages than our typical language and
costume. Is this good? Present your view.
(b) Many people spend too much money and show off
during festivals. Is this good? Present your view.
(c) What are the specialities of your birthplace? Mention
any five of them.
(d) What activities should a person do to become an ideal
person in his or her district? Make a list of any five such
activities.

(3) Identify the following personalities. What are their
contributions for our country? Discuss and write.

50 Our Traditions, Social Norms and Values AApppprroovveedd bbyy CCuurrrriiccuulluumm DDeevveellooppmmeenntt CCeennttrree,,
SSaannootthhiimmii,, BBhhaakkttaappuurr