Socio religious life in Ladakh a case study of Buddhists in the 19th and 20th centuries

Abstract

The present study entitled, Socio-Religious Life in Ladakh: A Case Study of Buddhists in the 19TH and 20TH Centuries examines the socio-religious life in Leh-Ladakh with special reference to Buddhism. Ladakh is a land that abounds in overwhelming physical features fixed in an enormous landscape and therefore it appears beautifully desolate and remote. Over centuries, it has imbibed varied ethnic, religious and cultural influences through many missionaries, explorers and traders who traversed its windswept plateau and deep valleys. Amidst all, Buddhism has played a pivotal role in the cultural intercourse of Ladakh and continues to be intact. In the process it has been able to progress and inherit a rich culture which outlives even today as a living heritage of the Western Himalayas. Therefore the present study attempts to identify and explore the diverse facets of Buddhists socio-religious life which is closely integrated with their faith. It examines the politico-social history and its influences, factors and forces promoting their customs and traditions, the dynamic and complimentary role played by monasteries and study of gender relations by way of comparing respective status of two sexes in the social and religious life. Also the study has pointed out the role of social forces and diverse socio-economic influences in its wake. In the meantime, the change and continuity discernible in the socio-religious life over time has been highlighted. A comprehensive and candid study has been conducted to comprehend the socio-religious life of the Buddhists of Ladakh in 19th and 20th centuries. newline