SOCIO-CULTURAL STUDY OF GOPALI CASTE OF NEPAL: A CASE STUDY IN MACHHEGAUN, CHANDRAGIRI 9, KATHMANDU, NEPAL

Dol Raj Kafle; Taranath Ghimire; Tej Bahadur KC

doi:10.29121/granthaalayah.v12.i10.2024.5813

Authors

Dol Raj Kafle Associate Professor, Central Department of History, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal https://orcid.org/0009-0009-5386-8827
Tara Nath Ghimire Associate Professor, Department of Political Science, Patan Multiple Campus, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
Tej Bahadur KC Associate Professor, Department of History, Mahendra Multiple Campus, Tribhuvan University, Nepalgunj, Nepal

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29121/granthaalayah.v12.i10.2024.5813

Keywords:

Ethnic Identity, Heritage, Newar, Hindu

Abstract [English]

The Gopali caste, a subgroup within the Newar community, has a unique socio-cultural heritage that remains under-researched and underrepresented. This study examines the social and cultural conditions of the Gopali caste in Ward No. 9 of Chandragiri Municipality using a qualitative approach. Data was collected from primary sources such as on-site observation, participant observation, focus group discussions, and interviews, and secondary sources including books and online materials. The findings reveal that the Gopalis, who migrated from the Mathura region of India around 3,500 years ago, have historically maintained unique social and ritual practices while living in seclusion. Today, Gopali settlements are primarily in the southwestern Kathmandu Valley and Makwanpur district. Despite diversifying into various occupations, they face limited participation in Nepal's administrative and political processes. This research underscores the importance of recognizing the Gopalis as a separate ethnic group to preserve their cultural heritage. Future research should focus on detailed ethnographic studies to document their traditions and explore ways to integrate the Gopalis into Nepal's broader socio-political landscape while preserving their distinct identity.

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