The KYC UK Ashford Branch
Preserving Yakthung Heritage in Kent The Ashford branch of Kirat Yakthung Chumlung (KYC) UK serves as a vital cultural hub for the Yakthung (Limbu) community residing in Ashford and the surrounding Kent area. As a local chapter of the national organization, the branch is dedicated to uniting the indigenous Limbu people—many of whom are families of Gurkha veterans who have settled in the region. The organization acts as a bridge between generations, ensuring that the rich history, language, and distinct identity of the Yakthung people remain vibrant while members build successful lives in the UK.
Celebrating Culture and Tradition A primary focus of the Ashford branch is the preservation and celebration of unique Yakthung traditions. The community actively organizes and participates in major festivals such as Chasok Tangnam (the harvest festival), Sisyekpa Tangnam, and Kakphekwa Tangnam (Kuswarak). These gatherings are not just social events but cultural classrooms where the rhythmic beats of the Chyabrung (Kelang) drum dance and the footwork of the Yalak (Dhan Nach) are performed and passed down to the youth. By prioritizing the use of the Limbu language and the Kirat-Sirijanga script in their activities, the branch works tirelessly to keep the community’s ancestral voice alive in the diaspora.
Community Welfare and Integration Beyond culture, the branch plays a crucial role in social welfare and community cohesion. It provides a support network for its members, ranging from elderly care for retired veterans to mentorship programs for the younger generation (often coordinating with the youth wing, Yakthung Wensa Chumbho). The organization also fosters integration with the wider Ashford public through charity work, volunteering, and participation in local civic events. By balancing deep respect for their roots in Eastern Nepal (Limbuwan) with active engagement in British society, KYC UK Ashford ensures that the Yakthung community remains a strong, supportive, and respected part of the local fabric.
