Silam Sakma – Mythical Symbol of Kirati -Small

Silam Sakma is a symbol that identifies Limbus. A version of this symbol is placed outside house to announce the house belongs to Limbu residents. Limbus belief is this symbol blocks the path of death and protects family members. It is also worn by the community people on their left chest during an event.

Mythology: According to the mythology when Mallas invaded Kiratis in Kathmandu. Mallas started chasing them and Kiratis hid into a cave. They started praying gods and some of them started weaving Silam Sakma. Because of their prayer, the entrance of cave got covered by cobwebs by which the attackers thought there was no one inside and they moved from there. This is how the lives of all hiding kiratis were saved, hence, since then Kiratis started worshipping Silam Sakma and believed that it has the highest religious value.