Languages of Sikkim

1. Languages of Sikkim Sikkim is a multi-lingual state, where people of many communities and tribes reside together. These numerous tribes have transformed the state into a delectable locale. Nepali is the most spoken language in Sikkim. However, English is also frequently used. People also speak in Hindi, one of the widely spoken languages of India. Besides these languages, there are numerous local dialects in Sikkim. Out of these dialects, Tibetan, Bhutia and Lepcha language are significant. The Sikkimese can be broadly classified into the Lephcas, the Bhutias, the Nepalese and the plainsmen. There are other linguistic communities like Gurung, Sunwar, Mangari, Newar, Rai etc. and other plainsmen who have migrated here from other states of India. Communities, cultures, religions and customs of different hues intermingle freely here in Sikkim. In urban areas many plainsmen like the Marwaris, Biharis, Bengalis, South Indians and Punjabis. It is traditionally accepted that the Lepchas are the autochthonous tribe of Sikkim. After them came the Bhutias, from Tibet, followed by the Nepalese and finally the Indian business community from the plains. However, before one goes into the ethnic composition of Sikkim, it needs to be said that the Sikkimese, irrespective of the tribe, class or community they belong to, are essentially simple folk. Like most hill-tribes, the Sikkimese are thus far relatively untouched by consumerism. Cliched though it may sound, the Sikkimese truly exemplify how different communities can exemplify how different communities can coexist in peace and mutual Sikkim is a multi-lingual state, where people of many communities reside harmoniously. Nepali can be termed as the most spoken language in Sikkim. However, English is also frequently used, though it is mainly spoken in municipal areas. Hindi, the national language of India, is also spoken at many places in the state. Besides these languages, there are numerous local dialects in Sikkim. Out of these dialects, Tibetan, Bhutia and Lepcha language are significant. Lepcha language is generally spoken by the Lepchas, though the dialect is not used to a great extent in Sikkim. The Bhutias commonly speak ‘Sikkimese’ language and the dialect dominates the state in minority. The Nepalese, being in majority, dominates the major part of Sikkim with their dialect. The people, who migrated from Tibet, have joined the hoard of Lepchas and Bhutias; yet old

2. people speak the language. English is used especially for official matters; nonetheless Hindi is spoken and understood by the maximum number of people.