Tharu women are taking the helm in traditional village leadership

From forest groups to village councils, women are redefining the once male-dominated Bhalmansa or Badghar tradition in Kailali district.

In the deeply rooted traditions of indigenous Tharu community, Bhalmansa or Badghar—village chief responsible for overseeing social harmony, settling disputes, performing rituals and carrying out development activities—is selected each year. The position was exclusively held by men in the past. But now Tharu women are stepping into this role, proving their leadership capacity and slowly reshaping traditional power structures.