Insights into the sacred landscape of Sikkim: Transformation and changing meaning of indigenous beliefs

In a context of landslides, rampant and unplanned urbanization, and unreliable roads, different communities in Sikkim have turned to their local divinities, narratives, and repertoires of “sacred landscapes” to take protective measures. Using competing narratives, collected from multiple informants from different communities, this paper examines stories, conflict reports, and the display of religious symbols, objects, and materials at various sites that serve to negotiate 'sacredness.' It asks question such as Whose landscape is it? Who has the authority to form a sacred site? By doing so, the paper illustrates how local communities merge, transform, and make sacred landscapes by negotiating beliefs and performing rituals.