Dynamics of Caste in Marriage: A Study of Select Indian Nepali Dalit Short Stories

<p><span>This paper critically analyses the select Indian Nepali Dalit short stories <em>Yadi </em>(2006) by I.K. Singh, <em>Andhabiswasko Parkhal </em>(2019) by Radha Rasaily and <em>Panditko Bihey</em> (2020) by Ashok Roka that elucidates the dynamics surrounding inter-caste marriage within the Nepali society. The narratives investigate the deep-rooted caste system and the pervasive caste hierarchy embedded within the Nepali community. The Nepali community enforces strict prohibitions against inter-caste marriages and promotes endogamy to uphold the caste hierarchy. The violation of endogamy leads to the ostracism of the couples from both their familial and societal spheres, necessitating the performance of death rituals aimed at purifying themselves of the societal shame inflicted by their offspring’s unions with individuals of a lower caste. This paper explores the diverse forms of marriage practices prevalent within the Nepali society, encompassing elopement, capture marriage, forced marriage and arranged marriage along with the distinct conventions that govern each of these marriages.</span></p>