Indo Aryans at Dha Hanu

In the fertile valleys of Dha and Hanu reside the indo Aryan people, known as Brogpas.Historians say that their ancestors were a group of soldiers from Alexander’s army who lost their way while returning to Greece after the war with Porus ,They reached Dha & hnu and settled there since it is the only fertile valley in Ladakh.

The brogpas are completely different from Ladakhi’s physically, culturally, linguistically and socially, They have adopted Buddhism but their customs are very similar to those of Hindu Brahmins. Like Hindus, they worship cow and Lha (gods and goddesses).

They offer sacrifices to the gods and are fond of music, wine, jewellery and flowers. Their costumes are adorned with clolorful flowers and jewellery. Both men and women dance together for days at the onset of spring in Ladakh. These people have been following the solar calendar for centuries.

Based on the movement of the sun in Ladakh, Brogpas celebrate December 22nd as their New Year day. Brogpa men and women are very tall and beautiful. Unlike Ladakhis, they are fair with big almond eyes and pointed noses.

They have preserved their racial purity they don’t allow anyone to marry into other communities, polyandry is common among them.