The Significance and role of Language in preserving the Identity of Sherpa Community in Sikkim
Abstract
Sikkim is the 22nd state of Indian Union which is located in the Southern mountain ranges of the Eastern Himalayas. The Bhutia, Lepcha and Nepali comprise the ethnic communities of Sikkim. The Sherpa is one of the tribe, which is clubbed with Bhutia group, in BL (Bhutia-Lepcha) Sikkimese tribes. But Sherpa has their own unique language and culture which is quite different from rest of the other ethnic group. Sikkimese Sherpas exist in four districts, i.e. South, West, North and East district of Sikkim. But the Sherpas are transformation in term of their identity language and culture. They are adopting many new things in their day to day life. Hence, this paper will deal with the significance and role of language in preserving the Identity of Sherpa community in Sikkim.