MADANSING – THE LAST HONEY HUNTER

For the past fifteen years, I’ve proudly borne the mantle of a honey hunter. It’s a role that brings both regret and a peculiar sense of guilty pleasure. We, the honey hunters, often find ourselves in the paradoxical position of offering apologies to the bees for the necessity of our actions. In our ancient tradition, to obtain the prized hallucinogenic honey, we must resort to taking the lives of these remarkable insects. There are no alternative methods at our disposal, and it’s an intrinsic part of our vocation. To accomplish this, we employ smoke to ward off the bees, but regrettably, some inevitably meet their demise in the process.

Honey, though, is not just a mere luxury for us; it’s a vital resource. You see, the nectar from Rhododendron flowers, our primary source of honey, carries a potent toxicity. When the bees forage on these flowers and bring the nectar back to their hive, the resulting honey becomes a potent elixir. Ingesting this honey induces a peculiar convulsive reaction; we tremble, but it’s all part of a grander plan. This extraordinary honey, with its hallucinogenic properties, bestows upon us the strength we need to endure the harshness of the winter season.

Throughout my fifteen-year journey, I’ve striven to amass a wealth of knowledge and wisdom from our revered Guru. Our role as honey hunters is not merely a vocation; it’s a solemn responsibility to our community, a gift bestowed upon us by the benevolent hand of nature. Without the allure of honey hunting, our lands wouldn’t attract curious visitors and celebrants seeking to partake in this unique experience.

On the days when I prepare to embark on a honey-hunting expedition, my regimen is simple. I begin my day with a humble cup of black tea, followed by a nourishing serving of dal bhat. This sustenance is essential, for it fortifies me, granting the vigor necessary for the arduous task that lies ahead.

But what truly matters, above all else, is the future. Our Guru, the guardian of our tradition, takes on the solemn responsibility of selecting the next generation of honey hunters. These individuals are chosen not based solely on physical prowess but on the strength of their souls and their unwavering dedication to our sacred craft. Life in our challenging environment demands strength, resilience, and a deep commitment to the art of honey hunting. It is for this reason that we cannot take any risks by admitting those who are undeserving or unprepared for the trials that await them. The future of our tradition and community hinges on this careful selection process, ensuring that only the strongest souls will thrive in this extraordinary calling.

@gianfransson