| The Tamang
The Tamangs claim their origin from four families, viz.
Bal, Yonjon, Moktan, Ghising. Their two main divisions are Bara Tamang
and Atharajat. Bara Tamang is socially superior. Tamangs have a similarity
with the Gurangs. Their language is similar to Gurang Kura. By religion
the Tamangs are Lamaist Buddhists.
The Newar
The Newar are originally agriculturists and masons. But
in Sikkim many of them have taken to trade. The Newars of Sikkim
are mostly Hindus. Thakurs
Next in social rank are the Thakurs. A Thakur is also
entitled to wear sacred thread. Inter-marriage among certain
class of Thakurs is permissible while marriage with members of other
classes is restricted.
Chettris
The Chettris are next in rank. They also wear sacred
thread and have Brahmanical prejudices. Though inter-marriage is
common, they prefer marriage only among their own class. |