Brokpas Brokpas form the community inhabiting the Dras Valley in Ladakh. It is believed that they are the descendants of the Dards of Chilas in the Gilgit region. Their ancestors migrated to this valley several centuries back, probably due to the harsh environmental conditions.

Brokma girl in traditional head dress. Credit: Discover India

Traditions and Culture
The Brokpas are a proud people who have retained their Aryan traditions and culture even after living for centuries in a region greatly influenced by Buddhism. This includes some very characteristic customs brought with them from Chilas. This community belongs to the Sunni faith and they maintain their separate identity from the Shias and Nurbakhshis who also live in this tract. The local language spoken by the Brokpas is Shinna, which they speak amongst themselves. In their communications with other communities, they use the Balti language, which most people in the region understand.

The typical attire of the male consists of a long woollen gown held at the waist by a girdle of cloth with woollen trousers. The headgear consists of a turban. The typical dress of the female consists of a loose gown which covers the whole body but is not very fashionable. The headgear resembles an inverted wooden trough.

Brokpa woman Credit: Discover India

Livelihood
This community is relatively more backward economically than the Baltis or other communities of this region. This disparity is probably due to the comparatively difficult conditions that they have to endure. The town of Dras has now grown considerably over the years with the opening up of the market which serves as a service center for the whole valley.

The general socio-economic condition of these people remains poor in spite of their being industrious. The main sources of livelihood for these people are animal husbandry, agriculture and allied occupations -- trade and small business.