The Ancient History of the Lepcha Community

The Lepcha community, considered the oldest and original inhabitants of Sikkim, has a fascinating and rich history. The Lepchas, also known as “Rongkup” (children of Rong), belong to the region of the Eastern Himalayas, which includes modern-day Sikkim, parts of West Bengal (Darjeeling), eastern Nepal, and Bhutan. Here, we provide a detailed account of their settlement in Sikkim, their cultural contributions, and their struggle for existence.

Ancient and Early History

1. Prehistoric Period:

The Lepcha community is believed to be one of the earliest inhabitants of the Eastern Himalayas. Their presence in Sikkim and the surrounding areas has been established for centuries, and they are regarded as the “original inhabitants” of these regions, dating back to a time when there were no mentions of any other communities. Linguistic and genetic studies suggest that the Lepchas belong to the Mongoloid ethnic group. Although there are limited written records of their history, their oral traditions and cultural stories indicate that they have been living in this region long before the arrival of other ethnic groups.

2. Mythology and Beliefs:

The Lepcha community believes that they were created by the god Itbu Debu Rum from the sacred snows of Mount Khangchendzonga. Khangchendzonga, which is still considered the holiest mountain in Sikkim, forms the foundation of the Lepchas’ religious and cultural identity. According to them, “Mayel Lyang”—a mythical paradise-like place—is their true home. The Lepchas believe that their ancestors emerged near the confluence of the Rongyong Chu and Rangit rivers, and that is where their civilization began.

3. Settlement and Lifestyle:

Initially, the Lepchas led a hunter-gatherer lifestyle, but over time, they took up agriculture. They lived in harmony with nature while residing in the forests and relying on the natural environment for their livelihood. They cultivated millet, large cardamom, and other crops, and were skilled in fishing, hunting, and gathering honey. Their deep connection with nature was also reflected in their religious and social activities.

Pre-Buddhist Era and Shamanistic Practices

Before the arrival of Buddhism, the Lepchas followed an animistic religion known as “Mun” and “Bongthing.” This religion primarily centered on the worship of natural elements—forests, rivers, mountains, and more, which were all central to their worship. They believed that every natural element possessed a spirit called ‘Rum,’ and numerous rituals were conducted to appease these spirits.

In the Lepcha society, the roles of Bongthing (male shaman) and Mun (female shaman) were crucial. These shamans performed religious and healing rituals within the community and helped maintain balance between humans and nature.

Tibetan and Bhutanese Influence

1. Tibetan Influence:

In the 8th century, Tibetan Buddhist monks began to establish their presence in the regions of the Eastern Himalayas. The influence of Tibetan culture and Buddhism on the Lepchas was gradual, and over time, the impact of Buddhism increased. The Bhutia community arrived from Tibet during the 16th and 17th centuries, further expanding the Tibetan Buddhist influence in Sikkim.

2. The Establishment of the Sikkim Kingdom (1642 CE):

A significant turning point in the history of the Lepchas came in 1642, when Bhutia leader Phuntsog Namgyal was declared the first Chogyal (king) of Sikkim. This event marked the establishment of the Sikkim Kingdom. The consecration ceremony took place in Yuksom, where Lepcha leader Thekong Tek and Limbu leader Yabra supported the Bhutia king. This alliance helped establish peace in the region and paved the way for a new political order in Sikkim.

Buddhism was adopted as the state religion, and gradually, many Lepchas embraced Buddhism. However, they retained their traditional beliefs as well, and continued their religious life by blending both Buddhist and shamanistic traditions.

Lepcha-Bhutia Relations and Cultural Exchange

The cooperation and cultural exchange between the Lepcha and Bhutia communities helped strengthen their ties. The Lepchas adopted certain elements of Tibetan culture, such as language, dress, and religious practices, while successfully preserving their distinct identity.

• Language and Script: The Lepcha language, which belongs to the Tibeto-Burman family, has its own unique script called “Rong.” This script was developed by a Lepcha scholar named Thikung Men Salong. The script helped preserve Lepcha folklore, mythology, and traditions in written form.
• Marriage Alliances: Marriage alliances between the Lepcha and Bhutia communities were also formed, which promoted peace and cooperation between the two groups. The Namgyal dynasty encouraged such alliances to ensure stability in the kingdom.

British Colonial Period (19th-20th Century)

1. British Intervention and Sikkim:

The arrival of the British in the 19th century had a profound impact on Sikkim and the Lepcha community. In 1817, the Treaty of Titalia was signed between the British East India Company and Sikkim, which placed the Sikkimese king under British protection. This treaty marked the beginning of British influence in Sikkim and presented new social and political challenges for the Lepchas.

2. Arrival of the Nepali Community and Demographic Changes:

During British rule, the Nepali community arrived in Sikkim. The British encouraged the migration of Nepali farmers to promote agricultural development, leading to significant demographic changes in the region. The Lepchas, who were previously the primary inhabitants of the land, now became a minority. This shift forced the Lepchas to face competition for land, employment, and resources with other communities.

Indian Independence and Merger of Sikkim (1975)

1. Indian Protectorate and Merger:

After India’s independence in 1947, Sikkim initially retained the status of an Indian protectorate with internal autonomy. However, due to growing political instability and movements, Sikkim merged with India in 1975, becoming the 22nd state of the Indian Union. This merger brought new social and political challenges for the Lepchas.

2. Lepcha Identity in Modern Sikkim:

After the merger of Sikkim with India, the Lepchas faced challenges in maintaining their identity as a minority community. However, the Indian Constitution provided them with some constitutional safeguards by recognizing them as a Scheduled Tribe. The Lepchas and Bhutias also have special representation in the Sikkim Legislative Assembly.

Dzongu – The Lepcha Reserve

Dzongu, located in North Sikkim, holds special significance for the Lepchas. It was designated as a reserve for the Lepchas by the Chogyal rulers to protect their culture and lifestyle. Even today, Dzongu remains the center of Lepcha traditions, where they continue to follow their ancient customs.

In recent years, the Lepchas of Dzongu have opposed hydropower projects that threaten their land and cultural heritage. Their struggle highlights the environmental and cultural importance of the region and underscores their deep connection to their ancestral land.

Modern Challenges and Cultural Revival

1. Struggle for Identity:

Today, the Lepchas face several challenges, including modernization, cultural assimilation, and economic marginalization. The loss of traditional land and the decline in the use of the Lepcha language are major concerns for the community.

2. Language and Cultural Revival:

Efforts are being made to revive the Lepcha language and script. Cultural festivals like Tendong Lho Rum Faat and Chu Rum Faat are celebrated to honor the sacred mountains and rivers, which are integral to Lepcha spirituality. These festivals also serve as a means to connect the younger generation to their heritage.

Lepcha activists and cultural organizations are tirelessly working to revive their traditions, including Mun and Bongthing religious practices, Lepcha folklore, traditional weaving, and medicinal knowledge.

Arrival of the Bhutia and Nepali Communities and Harmony

As the Bhutia and Nepali communities gradually arrived in Sikkim, the population diversity of the region increased, leading to new social and cultural transformations. The Bhutia community arrived from Tibet and brought Buddhism with them. Subsequently, the Nepali community also entered Sikkim, primarily encouraged during British rule for the development of agriculture.

Despite the arrival of these various communities, all groups contributed to the culture of Sikkim while preserving their own traditions. Today, Lepchas, Bhutias, Nepalis, and other communities together create a diverse and rich cultural environment in Sikkim. They all live together in harmony and peaceful coexistence, making Sikkim’s society a symbol of unity and cooperation.

The history of the Lepchas in Sikkim is a testament to their resilience and the depth of their culture over centuries. They began as a community living in the forests and played a crucial role in the formation of the Sikkim Kingdom. Today, they continue to maintain their unique cultural identity as a marginalized community in modern India.

The Lepchas, Bhutias, and Nepalis all contribute to the cultural diversity of Sikkim. The harmony and unity among them is the greatest strength of Sikkim today. The Lepchas have preserved their customs, beliefs, and lifestyle and live in peaceful coexistence with the Bhutia and Nepali communities. Their connection with nature, their spiritual beliefs, and their efforts to maintain their language and traditions are a testament to their deep love for their ancestral land “Mayel Lyang,” which they regard as their paradise.