ABSTRACT
After India became independent in 1947, Nepal freed itself from the century-long oligarchic, hereditary rule of the Rana Bahadur premiers in 1951. However, India still has significant influence in social, economic, and political spheres in Nepal. The caste system affected Nepal's political culture and society in myriad ways. The Licchavis promoted urban culture, craftsmanship, and trade with Tibet and India. During the end of the Licchavi period, however, the Sanakaracharya, a Hindu spiritual leader from India, convinced Shiva Deva to destroy Buddhist culture and monasteries. The ethnic composition of Nepal and its cultural heritage have been deeply influenced by India and Tibet. The spread of the ruling group's culture, language, and religion also contributed to its consolidation. Some of the groups gave up their customs and gradually embraced the dominant Nepali culture based on hill Hinduism. Muslims are probably the least researched group in Nepal, and less is known about them than other groups.
