Sikkim’s history intertwines with both myth and reality where ancient tales blend with documented events. In Hindu mythology, the kingdom finds its earliest mention in Lord Shiva’s legendary appearance as a hunter at the Kirateshwar temple in Western Sikkim. However, the verifiable annals of Sikkim’s past commence with the 17th century’s tumultuous events.
Amid the strife between the Yellow Hat and Red Hat sects in Tibet during the 17th century, the Bhutia Tibetan community sought refuge in the sanctuary of Sikkim. This migration marked the beginning of Sikkim’s association with Tibetan culture and traditions shaping its identity in the centuries to come.
In 1642, Sikkim witnessed a transformative moment with the ascension of its inaugural Chogyal or king. Consecrated by three eminent lamas from the southern, western and northern regions, the Chogyal’s authority extended over western Sikkim. Embarking on a path of expansion, the Chogyal, in alliance with the three lamas, annexed territories including the Chumbi Valley and parts of eastern Nepal.
The Chogyal instituted a system of governance, appointing 12 ministers to oversee 12 distinct administrative divisions. Despite efforts at consolidation, internal discord persisted among Sikkim’s diverse Tibetan communities, including the Bhutias, Lepchas, Limbus, and Magars. However, the Magars’ tenure within the kingdom was short-lived.
Influence of Buddhism
Buddhism played a significant role in shaping the cultural and religious landscape of ancient Sikkim. As early as the 8th century CE, Buddhism began to spread into the region from Tibet and the Indian plains. Monasteries, such as Rumtek Monastery, became centres of learning and spiritual practice, fostering the growth of Buddhist teachings and traditions.
During the 17th century, Sikkim experienced a significant influx of Tibetan refugees including Buddhist monks and scholars fleeing political unrest in Tibet. This influx contributed to the enrichment of Sikkim’s cultural tapestry as Tibetan Buddhism and Bhutia culture became more prominent.
The British era
During the British era, Sikkim was a small Himalayan kingdom situated between India and Tibet. It operated as a protectorate under British control, with the Chogyal managing internal affairs while the British controlled external relations. After India gained independence in 1947, Sikkim continued as a protectorate under Indian suzerainty and formalised by the 1950 Indo-Sikkim Treaty.
Post-Independence era
Sikkim’s political landscape was characterised by tensions between the monarchy and democratic forces. The majority of the population were Nepali-speaking, alongside indigenous Lepchas and Bhutias, creating a complex socio-political environment. In the 1960s and early 1970s, there was increasing demand for democratic reforms culminating in widespread protests in 1973.
The elections in 1974 resulted in a pro-India party gaining a majority. A new constitution was adopted making Sikkim an “associate state” of India. However, tensions between the Chogyal and pro-Indian political forces continued.
Ultimately in April 1975, a referendum was held and an overwhelming majority voted for the abolition of the monarchy and full integration with India. Following the referendum, the Indian Parliament passed the 36th Amendment Act on 16 May 1975 formally making Sikkim the 22nd state of India and deposing the Chogyal.
Recognition by China
China did not recognise Sikkim as a part of India for several years, but it eventually acknowledged Sikkim’s status as an Indian state in 2003. This acknowledgement was part of a broader process of improving relations between India and China.
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On 16 May 1975, India’s 22nd state nestled in the Himalayas, was born
