Kalenjin myths of origin of"Nandi" name:

The different Kalenjin communities have had different references for each other. Thus, the Nandi were derogatorily or otherwise called Chepng'al (watu wa maneno mengi!) by the other Kalenjins. There is, however, a myth that indicates that the name Nandi was given by some Arab merchants in reference to a community of vicious attackers, much like a swift bird called Nandi. It is perhaps important to mention that the term Nandi is used in the Indian language to refer to a goddess whose symbol is a bull! Does this have anything to do with the love for a cow by the Nandi and Kalenjins? It is a matter of conjecture, perhaps, but the love for a cow is found in the most flowery and unflattering language forms. "Koonyit ko toroor ko tee tany ak muren", respect is equated to a man and a cow! Ostensibly because when a man has cows, he can marry a woman and thus completely earn his respect 'koondit'.

Marriages amongst Kalenjin part I

Eight separate ceremonies were observed in connection with traditional Kalenjin wedding.Each ceremony could not be effected without maiyweek(Local beer).The first step was the engagement.This was preliminary visits made by the young man's father to the father of the girl selected to be his wife

The initial visit is known as kaayaaet-aap kooito.On this first visit,the father was dressed in a robe of blue monkey fur.Upon arriving at the girl's home he would stand at mabwaita(the family altar) and send a message to the girl's father.He did this by placing a noogirweet(ceremonial stick) at the mabwaita.This was the sign that he wanted to begin talks regarding marriage.No cattle tugaap kooito(cattle of dowry) were brought that first visit,but an initial agreement was made.The father's arranged another meeting day.