Gurkhas

In Sikkim, Gurkhas occupy a considerable part of the population. Among the Gurkhas living in Sikkim, the Brahmins are said to occupy the highest social position.

Talking about the Gurkhas, it can be said that the Gurkhas of Sikkim are chiefly Hindus. It is noteworthy that the Gurkhas of Sikkim are very orthodox people, who are staunch supporters of Hinduism in Sikkim. Therefore, in spite of the influence of Buddhism in Sikkim, the Gurkhas in Sikkim worship Hindu Gods and Goddesses.

It is noteworthy that in Sikkim, Gurkhas are known for their rigid matrimonial rules. The Gurkhas at Sikkim consider themselves as socially superior: as the Gurkhas of Sikkim are mainly Brahmins they are said to belong to an upper strata of the society in Sikkim. As a result, the Gurkhas observe matrimonial rules. It is said that there is a prohibition among the Gurkhas to marry outside their community: marrying a lower caste is, in fact, a taboo in the Gurkha society of Sikkim.

But, in this changing world, the rigidity and social prejudice of the Gurkhas are disappearing. Instances of a Gurkha marrying a non-Brahmin or non-Gurkha are not uncommon. With the Gurkhas taking to different professions other than priesthood, social assimilation has become easier in Sikkim, especially among the Gurkha clan.