Sample Question Papers for HCM Scholarship

 Sample Question Papers for HCM Scholarship

1.      https://docs.google.com/document/d/1m5GgHYKyL_U4Rlhkaqy0aAba1oqwHNGl/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=105953808277210360067&rtpof=true&sd=true

 2.       https://docs.google.com/document/d/13FVOJNYSyXZox_yY7ZIqYQ4PKVO2B4fg/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=105953808277210360067&rtpof=true&sd=true

 3.       https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kJzX5tz05VybH734QlV8sKQO97YAVfOa/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=105953808277210360067&rtpof=true&sd=true

Sikkim Renames Raj Bhavan to Lok Bhavan Today

Gangtok, December 3: Sikkim Governor Om Prakash Mathur announced on Wednesday that Raj Bhavan has now been renamed as ‘Lok Bhavan’. This change was made after a direction from the Union Home Ministry on November 25. The Governor said that the new name will be used from now onwards for all official work. He also said that this step will help make the place more open and friendly for the people, and will strengthen democratic values.

Many years ago, after the Sikkim Expedition in 1888, the British government appointed John Claude White as the first Political Officer of Sikkim in 1889. He loved Sikkim and decided to build a beautiful residence there. This building later became known as Raj Bhavan. He chose the site himself and wrote about the experience in his 1909 book.

After Claude White, many British officers lived and worked there, including Sir Charles Bell, Major W.L. Campbell, Lt. Colonel W.F. O’Conner, Major F.M. Bailey, Major J.L.R. Weir, Frederick Williamson, Sir Basil Gould and Anthony J. Hopkinson. (three officers – David McDonald, Capt. R.K.M. Battye and H. Richardson also held the post temporarily. Anthony J. Hopkinson was the last British Political Officer before India became independent in 1947.

After independence, the building became the home of the Indian Political Officer and was known as Burra Kothi. It remained an essential place until 1975. Today, under its new name, Lok Bhavan represents the people and democracy.

Dongeythang School Launches Philatelic Club

28.11.25: The Dongeythang Philatelic Club under the Sikkim Post Department, Gangtok, was officially inaugurated at Dongeythang Primary School on November 25th, 2025.  The initiative aims to encourage students to develop an interest in philately and understand the cultural and historical value of postage stamps. This year, seven students have been selected as the first members of the club.

To mark the occasion, a stamp drawing competition on the theme “National Flag of India” was organised, where students showcased creativity and enthusiasm. Participants also explored a display of philatelic collections, including the latest postage stamp issued on Sikkim, making the event both educational and inspiring.

Children’s Day 2025 Celebrated with Joy at Dongeythang Primary School

Children’s Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm at Dongeythang Primary School. Sports and cultural programmes were the highlights of the event. Shri Vickey Tamang, Dance Director of VMatrix Dance Academy, Singtam, along with his assistant choreographer, Miss Guras Baniya, graced the occasion as special guests. Shri Karma Rinzing Bhutia, School In-charge, served as the host of the day.

The day-long celebration began with the offering of khada to the portrait of Jawaharlal Nehru, whose birthday is observed as Children’s Day. Shri Shital Pradhan, Headmaster of the school, congratulated everyone on the occasion. A cake was jointly cut by the outgoing Class V students to mark the celebration. Shri Bhim Prasad Dahal, Senior Teacher, delivered the welcome address.

Students participated with joy and enthusiasm in various sports events and dance performances. Sports activities for guardians were also organised, adding more excitement to the day. Both Shri Vickey Tamang and Miss Guras Baniya addressed the gathering and encouraged the students.

The event concluded with the distribution of prizes to the winners.

Knight Chess Academy, Singtam Shines in Kalimpong and Darjeeling Chess Tournaments 2025

Singtam, November 3, 2025: Students from Knight Chess Academy, Singtam, performed remarkably well at two major chess events — the Late Hari Pd. Katel and ST Sherpa Memorial Chess Championship 2025 held at Kalimpong, and the Rapid Chess Tournament 2025 held at Darjeeling.

In the Kalimpong Championship, Rajvedi Rai secured the 1st position in the Under-9 Girls category, while Yedhant Agarwal and Evan Moktan claimed the 2nd and 3rd positions respectively in the Under-9 Boys category. Pallak Agarwal won the 1st position in the Under-11 Girls category, Edha Singh secured 3rd position in the same category, and Suyog Shital Pradhan emerged Champion in the Under-13 Boys category. Parichay Subba claimed the 1st position in the Under-15 Boys category, while Manasvi Acharya received the title of Best Girl of the Tournament along with a cash prize. The academy’s coach, Rohit Gurung, won the Open Category.

In the Darjeeling Chess Tournament, Aarav Pradhan secured the 2nd position in the Under-10 category, Yedhant Agarwal stood 8th, and Pallak Agarwal 9th in the same category. Parichay Subba bagged the 2nd position in the Under-14 category, while Coach Rohit Gurung once again won the Open Category. The academy continues to make Singtam proud with its growing chess excellence.

Suyog Shital Pradhan received his first chess rating

Suyog Shital Pradhan has earned his first chess rating of 1445. His latest rated event was the 3rd Nitai Ghosh Memorial Rating Open 2025, a five-day, nine-round tournament organized by Jalpaiguri Chess Academy at Greater Kailash The Palace, Jalpaiguri, from 10th to 14th October 2025.

Bhai Tika 2025

Meyju Sonia Pradhan: From Sikkim’s Pride to Miss Universe India 2024

(First published in PAU, Newa Journal, Gangtok, Vol 6, No. 1: September 2024)

Meyju Sonia Pradhan, daughter of Bhaju Bishnu Pradhan and Meyju Leela Maya Pradhan, was born on 2nd November 2003. Currently pursuing her graduation at Nar Bahadur Bhandari Degree College, she has already made a name for herself in the pageant world.

Sonia was the 2nd runner-up in Miss Newar 2023 and also shone brightly as the 2nd runner-up in the Meyju Sikkim 2023 competition held during Indra Jatra 2023. Hailing from Tumlabong, Ranipool, she proudly claimed the title of Miss Universe Sikkim 2024 at the event organized by Positude Sikkim, where Anavi Baniya from Rangpo and Yodenla Bhutia from Soreng were crowned 1st and 2nd runner-up, respectively.

Now, Meyju Sonia is all set to represent the Himalayas region on the national stage at Miss Universe India 2024. Her journey, beginning on 9th September and continuing until 22nd September in Jaipur, Rajasthan, will see her competing with the top 51 contestants from across the country.

As Sikkim’s pride, we extend our wholehearted support to Sonia, hoping she shines brightly and brings glory to her state. We wish her all the best as she embarks on this prestigious journey, with aspirations to represent India at the Miss Universe pageant.

Let us all cheer for our Meyju as she takes on this incredible challenge!

Dongeythang Primary School Celebrates Postponed Teacher's Day, Honours State Awardee Karma Rinzing Bhutia

8.09.25 – Dongeythang Primary School celebrated its postponed Teacher's Day with great joy and enthusiasm, honouring its own Karma Rinzing Bhutia, a primary teacher recently awarded the Sikkim State Teachers Day Award. The celebration had been delayed to allow for his recognition by the Education Department, Government of Sikkim, at a state-level ceremony at Manan Kendra, Gangtok.

Upon his return, Mr. Bhutia received a warm welcome from Senior Teacher Bhim Prasad Dahal and his colleagues. Highlights of the day-long program included students, parents, and staff offering traditional Khadas to the awardee. Both students and teachers contributed to the program with a variety of engaging cultural performances.

The event commenced with the lighting of a lamp and the offering of a Khada to a portrait of Late Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, the former President of India in whose honour Teacher's Day is celebrated nationwide.

Speeches were delivered by Miss Bipashna Dahal, the school captain; Shital Pradhan, Headmaster; Bhim Prasad Dahal, Senior Teacher; and the awardee himself, Karma Rinzing Bhutia. In his address, Mr. Bhutia expressed his gratitude to the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Sikkim, the selection jury, and officials from the Khamdong BAC, Gangtok District Education Department, and the Education Department, Government of Sikkim for the honour.

The day's program was hosted by CM Dahal, President of the Parent-Teacher Association, while Aakriti Sapkota, Culture Captain, gave the vote of thanks.

Sikkim's Lomas Dhungel Among 51 'Changemakers' Honoured at National Meet by Samanway Pratisthan

PALANPUR, GUJARAT – The Samanway Pratisthan, a Vadodara-based NGO, has concluded its four-day Changemakers Meet 2025, a national program celebrating individuals who have made significant societal contributions. The event, which began on September 5, was supported by the India Foundation and Banas Dairy, Asia’s largest dairy farm.

For three months, the Samanway Pratisthan conducted a nationwide search for "unsung heroes" for its first-ever meet under The Changemakers Network (TCN). The program's theme was "Be a Sarathi of Viksit Bharat 2047."

From 27 states, 51 "Changemakers" were selected for their exceptional work in fields like health, education, and social service. Lomas Dhungel, a mathematics teacher from Government Senior Secondary School, Makha, Gangtok district, was specifically recognized for his socio-environmental project, "Hariyo Makha - Sikkim Against Pollution" that was started in 2015.

The event was chaired by Shankar Chaudhary, Speaker of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly, and featured several dignitaries, including Suresh Prabhu and Dr. Ram Madhav. They praised the Changemakers' dedication and pledged their support to help these leaders further their work, reinforcing a shared commitment to building a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

The story behind Bhoto Jatra

Deepanjali Pradhan

(First published in PAU, Newa Journal, Gangtok, 2024)

After hearing the word “Bhoto Jatra” people might think that the Newar people are crazy for celebrating the festival of the vest. What is so important about the vest? It is important to know what a bhoto jatra is and why it is celebrated. Well, there are no such festivals in newa community which does not explain the existence and the importance of any festivals, traditions, and rituals.

 

So here goes the story for celebrating “Bhoto Jatra”. According to the legend, it is said that “Once the wife of Karakal Nagraj had an eye disease which was not getting cured even after doing so many medications. There lived a farmer (Jyapu) who said that he can heal her eye problem and Nagraj let him try. Then the farmer rubbed on his body with his hand and collected the dirt and put it in the eyes of Nagraj’s wife. After which his wife was instantly cured, seeing to which Nagraj was overjoyed and rewarded the farmer with invaluable “Bhoto” out of generosity as a gift.

The farmer was very happy and showed off his newly earned, priceless vest everywhere, and drew a lot of attention from everyone. Unfortunately, one afternoon when he was done with his fieldwork he opened the Bhoto and kept it aside to clean himself. In the meantime the vest was stolen by a giant Lakhe who refused to return it, running away from the village.

After a long chase, the two reached the wide plains of Bhaktapur, where the Rato Machindranath festival was taking place and people were pulling a chariot. The argument between the two caught the attention of King Gunkampdev. He gave both the parties a chance to present their side of the story to claim the bhoto. Ultimately, he demanded that both the farmer and the Lakhe present the proof of ownership. Until they could, the king decided that the vest would remain with the priests of the Rato Machindranath chariot.

The priests waited until the last day and kept displaying the vest for someone to come and take possession. But nobody ever did. So, the priest at the Machindranath chariot displayed the bhoto to the crowd for the final time during the festival. “Who does this bhoto belong to?” he asked the crowd, displaying it from all four corners of the chariot.

No one came forward with any proof. And so, the tradition of Bhoto Jatra began, with the display of the bhoto like this to the crowd every year, the priests waiting for someone to come forth and claim the bhoto with concrete proof of ownership".

Even today, the tradition continues and as the ceremony ends, the bhoto is packed and handed to a representative of Patan for safekeeping, along with the image of Rato Machindranath, awaiting its rightful owner to come forward, again.

Rato Machindranath Jatra is marked as a reversed festival in the valley. Bhoto Jatra, or Bhoto Dekhaauney Jatra, is celebrated to pay homage to the God of Rain and good harvest, Rato Machhendranath. Known also as Bunga Dyah Jatra or the Rato Machindranath Festival, celebrated locally among Newari communities, this is a month-long festival, while the Bhoto Dekhaauney event happens on the final day. Every year, the huge Chariot of Rato Machindranath is pulled around the valley. Indeed yes, it is huge with a 32 hands long chariot linked with four ends built from bamboo poles, completed after days of hard work in Pulchowk, Lalitpur from where the journey of the chariot starts. A black jewel-studded and decorated with various precious diamond vest (bhoto) is displayed at a long chariot procession. It is believed Bhoto Dekhauney Jatra brings good luck to all.

As per the local people’s perspective and their knowledge it is said that the Bhoto shown during the Jatra is a replica of the original Bhoto. The original Bhoto is said to be on display at the museum in London. Indeed there is still suspense on how the bhoto ended up at the museum.

5th Shiv Lata Scholarship 2025-26 Awarded to Arluv and Yankey Gurung

15.03.2025: Among the 21 students participating in the 5th Shiv Lata Free Scholarship Examination 2025, Master Arluv Gurung and Miss Yankey Gurung successfully passed the scholarship exam. Both students received certificates of achievement, school bags, exercise copies, books, and a set of school and house dresses during the function at Riverine Elementary School, Melatar, Rongli.

The scholarship prioritizes students who have completed class V and belong to the BPL category, with support from the Shiv Lata family. Shiva Narayan Pradhan, a former teacher at a school in Rongli (now known as Kumari Pema Tseduen Secondary School), has been instrumental in its establishment.

The selected students will be able to avail themselves of free education at Riverine Elementary School for classes VI-VIII.

Government Primary School Dongeythang Celebrates 79th Independence Day

16.08.25, Singtam: Government Primary School, Dongeythang, celebrated India's 79th Independence Day with a grand and patriotic program. Mrs. Gaki Doma Bhutia, Panchayat of Simick Ward and SMC President, and Mrs. Phurmit Lepcha, Panchayat of Lingzey Ward and Vice President of Simik Lingzey GPU, served as the Chief Guest and Guest of Honour, respectively, and unfurled the tricolor flag. Distinguished guests, students, staff, and parents were present on the occasion.

The day's highlight was the hoisting of the national flag by the Chief Guest, accompanied by the National Anthem and a spirited march past by the students of Dongeythang Primary School. Shri Bhim Prasad Dahal delivered the welcome speech. Shri LB Pradhan, former Headmaster of the school, and Shri RP Sharma, former teacher, were felicitated on the occasion for their contributions to the school's development.

The program was a vibrant showcase of talent and patriotism, featuring cultural presentations by students from Badong Thangsing JHS and Dongeythang Primary School, along with speeches from the Chief Guest, Smt. Gaki Doma Bhutia, the School Advisor, Shri RP Poudyal, former Army official, Shri KP Subedi, the Headmaster, Shri Shital Pradhan, and the school captain, Miss Bipashna Dahal.

A variety of sports competitions added to the festive atmosphere, with students and audience members participating in various events. A special volleyball exhibition match between Narayan Prathibha Club and the school team was also a major attraction, with the school team winning 2-1.

Shri Karma Rinzing Bhutia and Shri CM Dahal hosted the day's events, which concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Shri. Karma Thupden Namgyal Bhutia.

Lata Memorial Public School Marks 79th Independence Day with Patriotic Spirit

15.08.25: Lata Memorial Public School, in collaboration with the Shantinagar Gaon Sudhar Samiti, celebrated the 79th Independence Day with great pride and enthusiasm today, August 15, 2025. The program was graced by Shri Bhakta Bahadur Chettri, a retired Army Officer, as the Chief Guest, and Smt Rajni Singh Cintury, President of the School Management Committee (SMC), as the Guest of Honour. Mr. Manish Pradhan, Principal cum Director of LMPS, and Shri Krishna Chettri, President of the SGSS, attended as Special Guests.

The LMPS students participated in a parade that helped them learn about India's freedom struggle and encouraged patriotism, unity, and discipline. They also took an active part in patriotic songs, sports, and a cultural program. The celebration ended with a ceremony to distribute medals and certificates to the students.

Knight Chess Academy Shines at Inter-School Chess Tournament 2025

17.08.25, Singtam: Students of Knight Chess Academy, Singtam delivered an outstanding performance at the Inter-School Chess Tournament 2025 held at TNSSS, Gangtok, securing multiple podium finishes across various age categories in both boys’ and girls’ sections.

Representing schools across the region, our academy players showcased not only skill and strategy but also exemplary sportsmanship. The tournament featured a highly competitive field, and our players rose to the occasion with commendable results.

In the boys’ section, standout performances included Parichay Subbha (6th), Karan Ojha (7th), and Yedhant Agarwal (8th) in the Open category, all with 7 points. In the Under-13 category, Suyog Shital Pradhan secured 2nd place with 7 points, and Pratik Sunar came 6th with 6.5 points. Aarav Pradhan dominated the Under-11 category, claiming 1st position with 7 points, while Dipttom Bhattacharya followed with a 3rd place finish (6 points). In the Under-9 category, Advait Dubey achieved 9th place with 6.5 points, and in Under-7, Abhirudhra Kumar clinched the 1st position with 7 points.

In the girls’ section, Manasvi Acharya led the way by winning 1st place in the Open category with a perfect 9 points, followed by Ishita Agarwal (5th, 7 points), Aadya Lama (8th, 6.5 points), and Palak Agarwal (9th, 6 points). In the age categories, Edha Singh placed 6th in Under-11 with 4.5 points, while Rajvedhi Rai secured 3rd place in Under-9 with 6 points.

The Academy is immensely proud of all its participants, not only for their performance but also for their dedication and discipline throughout the tournament.

Speaking on the occasion, Rohit Gurung, coach and mentor at Knight Chess Academy, said, "These results reflect the hard work and commitment of our students. We are proud to be nurturing future champions and will continue our efforts to promote chess excellence in the region."

Congratulations to all the players and heartfelt thanks to the parents and supporters who continue to stand by our young talents.

For further information, please contact:

Knight Chess Academy, Singtam

📞 Phone: +91- 81012 98212

Royal Letterhead of the Kingdom of Sikkim (1928) Featuring the Original Crest

This 1928 letter from Maharaja Tashi Namgyal of Sikkim is printed on the official royal letterhead, featuring the crest of the Kingdom of Sikkim at the top center. The crest includes traditional Sikkimese symbols, mythical creatures, and a crown, reflecting the monarchy’s authority and Buddhist heritage. This version of the crest was used during Sikkim’s status as a princely state under British paramountcy. In later years, the royal crest was redesigned and replaced. (PIC: from internet)

Sikkim's First Governor Sworn In

FIFTY-EIGHT-YEAR-OLD MR. BEPIN BEHARI LAL, I.C.S., TOOK OATH AS FIRST GOVERNOR OF SIKKIM AT A SIMPLE BUT IMPRESSIVE CEREMONY HELD AT RAJBHAVAN ON MAY 16. THE OATH WAS ADMINISTERED BY MR JUSTICE RAJINDER SACHAR, CHIEF JUSTICE OF THE HIGH COURT OF SIKKIM.

The function was held at a specially erected pandal at the Rajbhavan lawns and was attended, among others by Chief Minister Kazi Lhendup Dorji, Kazini of Chakung, members ofthe  Cabinet Mr B.P. Dahal, Mr B.P. Kharel, Mr Dorji Tsering, Mr Naye Tsering Lepcha, and Mr Rinzing Tongden Lepcha, Deputy Speaker of Sikkim Assembly Mr C.S. Rai, Members of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly, General Secretary of Congress Party Mr S.K. Rai, and top civil and army officials.

Later, Mr Lal administered he oath of office and secrecy to Kazi as Chief Minister and his Cabinet colleagues under the Indian Constitution.

On his arrival at Rajbhavan Mr Lal was received by Kazi and his Cabinet colleagues. He was presented with an impressive Guard of Honour by Sikkim Police and C.R.P. personnel under the command of Mr Manzurul Haq, D.S.P. of C.R.P.

The Sikkim Police band played the National Anthem. The National flag was fluttering at the Raj Bhavan. The Chief Secretary of the Sikkim Government Mr T.S. Gyalsen read out the President’s warrant of appointment appointing Mr Lal as Governor of Sikkim. Then Mr Justice Rajinder Sachchar administered the oath to Mr Lal for office. In turn, Mr Lal administered the oath to Mr Justice Sachhar as Chief Justice of the High Court of Sikkim.

MLAs SWORN IN...

Later in the afternoon, at another function at the Rajbhavan Mr Lal administered oath to thirty-one members of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly. Mr R.C. Poudyal, who is now under treatment at Poona, could not take the oath.

History of Rongli Bazaar

 ALSO READ : Mandir bell depict Rongli story

Source: January 1, 1970; Kanchenjunga Magazine

Newar and Our Culture in the Context of Sikkim

Newar and Our Culture in the Context of Sikkim: 

An Exploration of Tradition, Heritage, and Identity

 Ajay Pradhan, MA Sociology, Sadam Sakha, Sikkim

(First published in PAU, Newa Journal, Gangtok, 2024)

 

Introduction

Sikkim, a small Himalayan state in India, is a melting pot of diverse cultures and communities, is a land of diverse cultures and rich traditions. While it is known primarily for its vibrant mix of ethnic groups, such as the Lepchas, Bhutias, and Nepalis. Among them, the Newar community stands out for its unique traditions, customs, and contributions to the state. The Newar community has played a significant role in shaping the cultural tapestry of this Himalayan state. Our culture, which is a unique blend of Hinduism and Buddhism, has not only survived but also thrived in Sikkim.

The Newars, known for their craftsmanship, artistry, and vast cultural practices, began migrating to Sikkim during the 19th and early 20th centuries. In Sikkim, the Newars found a welcoming environment where they could practice their trades, including craftsmanship in wood, metal, and stone, as well as trade. The authorities of Sikkim recognised the Newars' skills and started their settlement, particularly in areas where their artisanal expertise could be utilized, especially at temple construction and other significant cultural projects.

One historical connection between the Newars and Sikkim is the construction of the Enchey Monastery in Gangtok. The Newar artisans were instrumental in building this religious site, infusing their artistic sensibilities into the architecture and design. This exchange of cultural and religious practices contributed to the rich tapestry of Sikkimese heritage.

The Newar culture is deeply rooted in tradition, with a rich heritage of festivals, rituals, and social customs that are passed down through generations. In Sikkim, the Newars have maintained these traditions, often adapting to a new environment while preserving the core elements of cultural identity, especially Newar Festivals and Rituals. The Newars in Sikkim celebrate a variety of festivals throughout the year. Among the most significant are Indra Jatra, Yomari Punhi, Mha Puja (and so on)-

Indra Jatra: This festival is observed by the Newars in Sikkim with the mass gathering of Newars, and this festival is witnessed by the people of Sikkim and the neighbouring states, and foreigners too. It is dedicated to Indra, the king of heaven and the god of rain, and involves the construction of a tall pole, the performance of masked dances, and the offering of prayers for good harvests and protection from natural calamities.

The festival is marked by the preparation of special foods, including the Newar delicacies like samyabaji and chhoyela. We can also say that this festival of Newars is celebrated as one of the most popular festivals celebrated by the Newars of Sikkim in a grand manner, where many cultural practices and folk traditions are performed, nearly a week-long celebration is celebrated and this auspicious day is recognized as a State holiday.

Yomari Punhi: This festival, celebrated in December, marks the end of the rice harvest. Yomari, a traditional Newar delicacy made of rice flour dough filled with sweet molasses and sesame seeds, is prepared and offered to the gods and ancestors. The festival also symbolizes the abundance of the harvest and is a time for community bonding and feasting.

Mha Puja: Celebrated during the festival of Tihar, Mha Puja is a ritual of self-purification and honouring the self. It is performed by the Newar community to purify the body, mind, and soul. The ritual involves creating mandalas, lighting oil lamps, and offering various food items to oneself, symbolizing the reverence for the inner spirit.

Behind all this rich culture and tradition, the Newar community in Sikkim is gradually eroding their cultural practices due to modernization. With the advent of technology, urbanization, and changing lifestyles, younger generations are often less connected to traditional customs and rituals. The pressures of adapting to a fast-paced, globalized world have led to a decline in the practice of traditional arts, crafts, and religious rituals among the youth. This trend is further exacerbated by the increasing preference for modern education and careers outside of the traditional vocations that have long been associated with the Newar community.

As more young people move to urban areas for education and employment, they are often distanced from their cultural roots, leading to a gradual loss of knowledge about their heritage. The Newar language, Nepal Bhasa, is a crucial aspect of the community's identity. However, in Sikkim, the language is increasingly under threat. With the dominance of Nepali, English, and other regional languages, Nepal Bhasa is not widely spoken. However, the efforts to revive and promote Nepal Bhasa in Sikkim have been made by cultural organizations and community leaders, but these efforts face significant challenges because of the limited availability of resources, such as books and teaching materials in Nepal Bhasa makes it difficult to sustain the language among the younger population.

Despite the challenges, there are ongoing efforts within the Newar community in Sikkim to preserve and revive cultural heritage.

  
Cultural Organizations and Community Initiatives

Cultural organizations play a vital role in preserving and promoting Newar culture in Sikkim. These organizations, often led by community elders and cultural enthusiasts, organize festivals, workshops, and cultural programs that highlight the Newar traditions. For instance, during major festivals like Indra Jatra, Mha Puja and Yomari Punhi, cultural organizations take the lead in organizing community gatherings, where traditional rituals, dances, and music are performed.

One significant initiative is the establishment of Newar cultural centers in towns like Gangtok and Namchi. These centers serve as hubs for cultural education, where community members can learn about Newar history, language, and arts. They also provide a space for younger generations to engage with their heritage through language classes, traditional dance and music lessons, and workshops on Newar crafts.

Language Preservation Programs

To combat the decline of Nepal Bhasa, various language preservation programs have been initiated by the Newar community in Sikkim. These programs include the teaching of Nepal Bhasa in community schools and through private tutors, the publication of books and literature in the language, and the promotion of Nepal Bhasa in cultural events. 

Some community members have also started using social media and digital platforms to promote the language. Online groups, forums, and YouTube channels dedicated to teaching Nepal Bhasa have emerged, providing accessible resources for those interested in learning the language. These digital initiatives are particularly important for reaching younger audiences who are more likely to engage with technology.

Revival of Traditional Arts and Crafts

The Newar community in Sikkim is also working to revive traditional arts and crafts that are at risk of being lost. This revival is crucial not only for preserving cultural heritage but also for providing economic opportunities to artisans and craftsmen within the community. Workshops and training programs are organized to teach younger generations the skills required for traditional Newar crafts, such as wood carving, metalwork, pottery, and textile weaving. These programs are often supported by cultural organizations and NGOs that recognize the importance of preserving these artisanal skills.

Moreover, efforts are being made to promote Newar crafts to a broader audience, both within and outside Sikkim. By promoting these crafts as part of Sikkim's cultural tourism, the community hopes to create a sustainable market for traditional Newar products, thereby ensuring the continuation of these art forms.

Conclusion

The Newar community in Sikkim is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of cultural traditions in the face of change. Despite the challenges of modernization, language endangerment, and cultural integration, the Newars in Sikkim have managed to preserve their rich heritage while also contributing to the cultural diversity of the state.

Through festivals, rituals, language preservation efforts, and the revival of traditional arts, the Newar community continues to maintain its unique identity in Sikkim. The stories and oral traditions that have been passed down through generations serve as a living legacy, connecting the Newars of Sikkim to their ancestral homeland and ensuring that their cultural heritage remains vibrant for future generations.

As Sikkim continues to evolve as a melting pot of cultures, the Newar community's commitment to preserving its traditions offers valuable lessons in the importance of cultural identity and the power of community. The efforts of the Newars in Sikkim to keep their culture alive serve as an inspiration/reminding us that heritage is not just about the past, but about sustaining a vibrant and dynamic future.

NEWAR CULTURE- A UNITY IN DIVERSITY

Dr. CL Pradhan, Dentam

(First published in PAU, Newa Journal, Gangtok, 2024)

Culture defines people’s values, beliefs, and personal interests. Culture is important because it allows people to maintain a unique identity in society. Newars are famous for their unique lifestyle and have rituals and customs which have to be followed from Birth till Death. They have their way of celebrating festivals, performing marriage ceremonies, and funerals. One of the old and still alive cultures is our unique way of celebrating the marriage ritual during childhood in a girl child is Ehee (Bel-Bibaha). 

Newars are a linguistic and cultural community of Indo Aryan and Tibeto-Burman ethnicities following Hindu and Buddhist religions. Newars are known for their contributions to art, sculpture, architecture, culture, literature, music industry, trade, agriculture, and cuisine, and left their mark on the art of Central Asia. The Newar Society was traditionally divided into occupational castes. The Newar Culture is marked by frequent religious festivals throughout the year, centred around processions and ritual dances. The Newar Community is made up of social groups associated with hereditary professions that provide ritual and economic services. Merchants, craftsmen, artists, potters, weavers, dyers, and farmers are all the societal groups that played a vital role in creating and flourishing an economic system. Newars are known as jewellery makers and shopkeepers since the Durga Malla period. The Newars were divided into hierarchical clan groups of occupational caste, readily identified by surnames. Food is an important part of the ritual and religious life of Newars, and the dishes served during festivals and feasts have symbolic significance, eg, Samay Baji, Yomari, Kwati, Haku Choila, etc.

Different sets of ritual dishes are placed in a circle around the staple rice flakes to represent and honour different sets of deities depending on the festival or life–cycle ceremony Kachila, Chhoyla, Pukala , Wo, Paunkwa, Swan puka, Syen, Mye, Sapu Mhicha, and Sanya khuna. Desserts consist of Dhau, Sisabusa, and Mari. Thwon (rice beer) and Ayla (local alcohol) are common alcoholic liquors that Newars make at home. At meals, festivals, and gatherings, Newars sit on long mats in rows; the sitting arrangement is hierarchical, with the eldest sitting at the top and the youngest at the end.

Newar religious culture is rich in ceremony and is marked by frequent festivals throughout the year. There are street celebrations like pageants, Jatras, or processions that are paraded in the street, including sacred masked dances. Newar festivals are marked by family feasts and worship, which are held according to the lunar calendar. Newars celebrate New Year's Day of Nepal Sambat by doing Mha Puja. Some of the important Newar festivals are Yenya (Indra Jatra), Sa Paru (Gai Jatra), Pahan Charhe, Jana Baha Dyah Jatra, Bunga Dyah Jatra, Biska Jatra, Sithi Nakha.

Newar traditional costumes consist of trousers (Suruwa) and long shirts (Tappalan) for men, blouses (Misalan) and Saris (Parsi) for women, and Haku Patasi for girls. Ritual dresses consist of pleated gowns, coats, and a variety of headdresses. Newars are bound together by a common language called Nepal Bhasa, which is of Tibet-Tibetan-Burman origin but has been heavily influenced by Indo- Aryan languages like Sanskrit, Pali, Bengali, and Maithili. Newari culture is characterized by unique rituals and customs observed from birth to death. Festivals, marriage ceremonies, and funerals are all celebrated in a distinctive Newari manner, showcasing their rich cultural heritage- a unity in diversity.