The Shahas of West Nepal : Political Autonomy and Economic Dependence in Former Nepalese Community

Contents: Preface. 1. Introduction. 2. The setting. 3. Historical perspective. 4. Land tenure and households. 5. The organisation of production. 6. Monetarisation and usury. 7. Caste and economic differentiation. 8. The internal structure of caste. 9. The kinship terminology. 10. Marriage and marriage strategies. 11. Concepts of kinship. 12. Conclusions. Appendices: A. Rukka of 1904 AD issued to three Thakuris at Rara. B. Economic details of households. C. Terms of address and greetings. Glossary. Notes. References.

"This book has been planned as an in-depth study of Rara village with enough information. The lucid style of the book makes its readers enthusiast the most important advantage is that it diligently goes to political autonomy and economic dependence in former Nepalese community. It also traces three castes – Sah, Thakuris, Chetris and Doms who inhabited in Rara village. Also the book provides an analysis of the economic relationship and the kinship systems of Thakuris and Chetris. So it has content with a complete readable, self – content course for individual study and requires no previous knowledge. This book is profusely illustrated by the help of diagrams and tables that enhance it quite typical and user-friendly. Of course, this book will be found both informative and enjoyable to students of all subjects as well as people from all walks of life." (jacket)