People Of Lepchakha

Enchanting Heritage of Dukpa Tribe in Lepchakha

The Dukpa tribe are Buddhists and they all have added ‘Dukpa’ as their second name. They are present in several villages like Phulbari, Paanbari, Admaa, Chhalun, Kalma, Seugaon, Phukhuri Chunavati, Buxaduar, Tashigaon, Lalbanglow, Sadarbazar, Daragaon, Buxa, Khattarline, Lepchakha and Onchulom.

A Tapestry of History and Culture

Once upon a time, in the picturesque region of Lepchakha, a captivating tale of history unfolded. It was the mid-18th century, a time when the mighty Mughal Empire's power was waning in northern India, and the neighboring region of Cooch Behar was experiencing a significant rise in Bhutanese influence. By 1772, the Bhutanese gained complete control over the area, prompting the Maharaja to seek assistance from the British.

As fate would have it, it was during this time that the British in India first encountered the Bhutanese. The East India Company, driven by their desire to secure their northern frontiers, viewed the Bhutanese activities unfavourably. In 1773, a small British force, with the support of the brave Khagendra Narayan, defeated the Bhutanese and captured two forts in the foothills. These developments raised concerns among the Bhutanese, leading them to seek the intervention of the revered Panchan Lama, a spiritual authority second only to Dalai Lama.

Panchan Lama approached Warren Hastings, the Governor-General of British India at that time, in an attempt to resolve the escalating tensions. The result was the signing of a treaty between Bhutan and the British, marking the beginning of an era of increased contact and interaction. As Bhutan's desire for territorial expansion grew, their attention turned to the east, particularly towards the independent region of Assam, which remained untouched by British rule. Taking advantage of the internal turmoil within Assam, Bhutan gradually increased its influence in the region. Eventually, it gained control over the passes known as Dooars in 1826.

However, in 1828, the British occupied Assam and once again confronted the Bhutanese. The British attempted to regain control over the 100 square miles of the Dooars region. Minor clashes between the British and Bhutanese forces occurred over the following years until tensions escalated into the second Anglo-Bhutanese War.

By 1865, the British had achieved complete control over all the passes in Bengal and Assam from the Bhutanese forces. The war concluded with the signing of the famous Treaty of Sinchula. This pivotal treaty facilitated open and duty-free trade between Bhutan and British India. The British government agreed to provide an annual payment of INR 50,000 to Bhutan in exchange for control over the 18 Dooars region.

Remarkably, this agreement continued even after India gained its independence in 1947. A treaty was signed between Bhutan and independent India, maintaining the provisions of mutual peace, friendship, and trade. Thus, the famous Treaty of Sinchula demarcated the lands that were once under the kingdom of Bhutan but later became a part of British India and, eventually, India after 1947.

Amidst this shifting landscape, the indigenous Dukpa people found themselves living in Lepchakha, their culture and language perfectly preserved over time. While there were other regions throughout North Bengal and Assam where people of the same group resided, the passage of time saw them modernize and adapt to changing times. Lepchakha and a few surrounding villages became the last vestiges of a Bhutanese influence in India, where a glimpse of Bhutan's essence could still be found.

Today, wandering through the enchanting land of Lepchakha, one can get immersed in its unique blend of history and culture—a place where the echoes of a bygone era resound, and the spirit of the Bhutanese people lives on, preserving the rich tapestry of their heritage amidst the ever-changing tides of time.

Location: Where Serenity Meets Majestic Himalayan Beauty

Nestled in the dense, wooded expanse of the Buxa Tiger Reserve, Lepchakha is situated in the north-eastern part of India, near the border of Bhutan. Lepchakha enjoys a picturesque setting, surrounded by lush green forests, offering stunning views of the Himalayan mountain range. This serene village is known for its tranquil atmosphere and is a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat. Its proximity to the border with Bhutan adds to its charm, allowing visitors to explore the cultural and natural treasures of both regions.

Flowing gracefully through the enchanting landscape of Lepchakha, a series of rivers adds to the natural beauty of this picturesque region. The rivers that meander through Lepchakha include the Sankosh, Raidak, Jayanti, Bala, and others, each contributing to the serene ambiance and captivating allure of the area.

Enchanting Haven in the Woods: Discovering Lepchakha's Habitat

The Lepchakha people have flourished in their fertile land, reaping the rewards of their labour from the bountiful soils. This idyllic region is blessed with fertile grounds that yield a diverse range of crops, making agriculture the backbone of the Lepchakha community.

Rice, maize, gin, cardamom, and millets are among the primary crops cultivated in Lepchakha. These crops not only provide sustenance for the Dukpa families but also contribute to the local economy. The lush green fields are a testament to the dedication and skill of the Lepchakha farmers, who nurture and cultivate these crops with utmost care and expertise.

Land ownership is a crucial aspect of the Dukpa families' lives, with each family having their own plot controlled by the family head. This land serves as their primary resource for agricultural production, representing their livelihood and source of sustenance. It is through their intimate connection with the land that Lepchakha people have thrived for generations.

In addition to agriculture, small-scale animal husbandry plays a significant role in the lives of the Lepchakha community. Almost every Dukpa household is home to pigs, goats, and fowl, which are raised for meat consumption and also serve as an additional source of income. The careful rearing and management of these animals provide the families with a diverse range of resources, further enhancing their self-sustainability.

The Lepchakha community's harmonious blend of agriculture and animal husbandry creates a balanced ecosystem within their community. The fruits of their labour not only nourish their own tables but also contribute to the local economy, as surplus crops and livestock products are often marketed either directly or through intermediaries.

Despite their diligent efforts, it is worth noting that the earnings from agricultural and animal husbandry pursuits often fall short of their potential. The Lepchakha people, with their unwavering spirit, continue to strive for better opportunities and explore avenues for growth and economic prosperity.

Through their connection to the land and the careful cultivation of crops and livestock, the Lepchakha people exemplify the harmonious relationship between humans and nature. Their dedication to agricultural traditions have allowed to sustain themselves and contribute to the community’s life.