From Tradition to Modernity: The Changing Dynamics of Faith Healing in Sikkim

This study examines the evolving landscape of faith healing practices in Sikkim, a region where traditional healing methods hold deep-rooted cultural significance but face mounting pressures from modernization. Through both primary and secondary data, this research highlights how socio-economic shifts and increased access to modern healthcare are reshaping public perceptions and the sustainability of faith healing practices. Semi-structured interviews with 12 faith healers across all six districts of Sikkim, complemented by surveys of 53 general respondents, reveal the key challenges and changes these practitioners face. Findings show that while faith healing remains an integral aspect of cultural identity in Sikkim, it struggles to resonate with younger generations, who are increasingly drawn to biomedical alternatives. The study underscores the importance of preserving traditional healing knowledge and suggests potential pathways for integrating these practices within modern healthcare frameworks to foster a balanced approach to healthcare in Sikkim. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the tensions between tradition and modernity in healthcare, offering insights for policy-makers, cultural preservationists, and healthcare providers alike.