Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari

Culture
Practices of dual religion

Nina Agrawal

Supervisor
Associate Professor, Solvor M. Lauritzen

MF Norwegian School of Theology, Religion and Society

AVH5035: Thesis for Master's in Religion, Society and Global Issues (60 ECTS), 2020
Word count: 30021

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Acknowledgment

This thesis entitled "Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari Culture": Practices of dual religion has
prepared for the fulfillment of the master's degree in Religion, Society, and Global Issues under
the supervision of Associate Professor Solvor M. Lauritzen (MF Norwegian School of Theology/
Ethics and Diaconal Studies).

It is my privilege to get help and co-operation from different people. It is not possible to
enumerate the names of all of them. However, it will be a matter of injustice if I forget the names
of those personalities whose valuable suggestions and co-operation escorted me to complete this
thesis.

Foremost, I want to thank the Professor in Religious Studies, Iselin Frydenlund, for her
assignment guidance. Similarly, I have to offer special thanks to Solvor for her supervision,
suggestions, and continuous support in my assignment. She provided me both theoretical and
practical knowledge to carry out this study and be persistent in accomplishing my goal.

I could not remain without thanking Mr. Prabin Agrawal, President of Marwadi Yuva Manch,
and Mr. Pradip Chainwala, President of Jhapa Marwadi Samaj Kathmandu, for their immense
co-operation during the research work of this thesis. I would also like to thank Mrs. Rupy Singhi
and Mr. Keshab Puri, who provided relevant information, data, books, and articles that helped
me prepare this thesis. I am also greatly indebted to my husband, parents, family members, and
friends who gave me a new vision to carry out this project and help me financially and
emotionally.

Doing this thesis work helped me gain in-depth knowledge of the subject; however,
accomplishing the objective was not easy. The first and the most critical difficulty was the
scarcity of data and information, which I experienced as the most challenging work during the
study. Nevertheless, it is a pleasant feeling to accomplish the thesis finally.

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Abstract

The culture shapes the religious values, faith, and belief system. Among them, Marwari culture is
the one that reflects its identity and values with the duo of Hinduism and Jainism. The practices,
rituals, language, food, and music reflect its ideologies as per Hinduism traditional values and
give Jainism practices space to include within it. The effect of the mixture of these two religions
on the Marwari community assessed with this study in the Nepalese Marwari context. The study
investigates the impact of religious collision, especially (Hinduism and Jainism) on Marwaris
culture. The study examines the determinants for their cultural decisions, rituals, and practices.
The qualitative research shows the similarities and differences that these religions have formed
in the Marwari culture.

This research focuses on the Nepalese Marwaris residing in Kathmandu, Nepal, who perceive
their culture from a religious perspective. It includes the analysis of the Hindu-Jain religion's
impact on these Marwaris. It also clarifies the Jain minorities Marwaris for coping with Hindu
majority Marwaris. Further, this research will provide a base for conducting future research in
this area on a large scale.

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Table of Contents
1 CHAPTER-I............................................................................................................................1
Introduction..................................................................................................................................1

1.1.1 Background of the Study...........................................................................................1

1.1.2 Objectives of the Study and research questions........................................................1

1.1.3 Methodological Approach.........................................................................................3

1.1.4 Theoretical Approach................................................................................................3

1.1.5 Limitations of the Study............................................................................................4

1.1.6 Organization of the Study..........................................................................................4

2 CHAPTER-II...........................................................................................................................6
Literature Review........................................................................................................................6

2.1.1 Theoretical approach.................................................................................................6

2.1.2 Theory of Hinduism and Jainism...............................................................................6

2.1.2.1 Hinduism in Marwaris........................................................................................8

2.1.2.2 Jainism in Marwaris...........................................................................................9

2.1.3 Knowing a Hindu-Jain Marwari..............................................................................10

2.1.4 Marwari Gotras and Their Origin:...........................................................................12

2.1.5 Knowing the Agrawals............................................................................................13

2.1.6 Marwari Culture and Traditions..............................................................................14

2.1.7 Rites of Passage in Marwaris...................................................................................15

2.1.7.1 Birth..................................................................................................................15

2.1.7.2 Puberty..............................................................................................................16

2.1.7.3 Marriage...........................................................................................................17

2.1.7.4 Death................................................................................................................18

2.1.8 Cultural Identity Theory..........................................................................................18

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 2.1.8.1 Language..........................................................................................................20

2.1.8.2 Music and Dance..............................................................................................20

2.1.8.3 Art and craft......................................................................................................21

2.1.8.4 Dress.................................................................................................................22

2.1.8.5 Festivals............................................................................................................23

2.1.8.6 Food..................................................................................................................25

2.1.8.7 Business as their identity..................................................................................25

2.1.9 Migration Theory.....................................................................................................26

2.1.9.1 Migration of Marwaris.....................................................................................26

2.1.9.2 Factors Leading to Marwaris Migration in Nepal............................................27

2.1.9.3 Challenges of Marwaris Migration...................................................................28

2.1.10 Gender theory..........................................................................................................28

2.1.10.1 Hinduism and Gender.......................................................................................29

2.1.10.2 Jainism and Gender..........................................................................................31

2.1.10.3 Comparing Religion and Gender in Marwari culture.......................................33

3 CHAPTER-3..........................................................................................................................35
Research Methodology..............................................................................................................35

3.1.1 Introduction..............................................................................................................35

3.1.2 Significance of Research.........................................................................................36

3.1.3 Research Design......................................................................................................36

3.1.3.1 Qualitative Research Method...........................................................................37

3.1.4 Data Collection Method...........................................................................................38

3.1.4.1 Data Source......................................................................................................38

3.1.4.2 Site selection and description...........................................................................39

3.1.5 Qualitative Interviews..............................................................................................40

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 3.1.5.1 Semi-structured Interviews...............................................................................40

3.1.5.2 Interview Guide................................................................................................41

3.1.5.3 Questionnaires..................................................................................................41

3.1.5.4 Pre-understanding and pre-knowledge.............................................................43

3.1.5.5 Informants’ Details...........................................................................................43

3.1.6 Sample method........................................................................................................45

3.1.7 Fieldwork.................................................................................................................46

3.1.7.1 Consent.............................................................................................................47

3.1.8 Researcher’s Role....................................................................................................47

3.1.8.1 Content Focused Transcription........................................................................48

3.1.9 Reliability and Validity in Research........................................................................48

3.1.10 Research Ethics........................................................................................................49

4 CHAPTER-IV........................................................................................................................50
Data Presentation.......................................................................................................................50

4.1.1 Introduction..............................................................................................................50

4.1.2 Religion as a part of Culture....................................................................................50

4.1.3 Caste shapes the Culture..........................................................................................53

4.1.4 Marwaris in Kathmandu..........................................................................................56

4.1.5 Marwaris as migrants...............................................................................................58

4.1.6 Role of Marwaris women in Jain-Hindu duo..........................................................61

4.1.7 Role of business in Marwaris..................................................................................64

5 CHAPTER-V.........................................................................................................................68
Analysis and Summary..............................................................................................................68

5.1.1 Introduction..............................................................................................................68

5.1.2 Inclusion or Separation............................................................................................69

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 5.1.3 The Significance of Puja Practice............................................................................70

5.1.4 The Significance of Business...................................................................................71

5.1.4.1 The Gaddi Culture............................................................................................72

5.1.5 The Significant Role of Women..............................................................................72

5.1.6 Synopsis of Data......................................................................................................74

5.1.6.1 Traditional and conservative Marwaris............................................................74

5.1.6.2 Modern Marwaris.............................................................................................75

5.1.6.3 Religious Marwaris..........................................................................................75

5.1.7 Advantages of the Hindu-Jain Practices in Marwari Culture..................................76

5.1.8 Disadvantages of the Hindu-Jain Practices in Marwari Culture..............................77

6 CHAPTER-VI........................................................................................................................79
Conclusion and Recommendations............................................................................................79

6.1.1 My Contribution......................................................................................................79

6.1.2 Conclusion...............................................................................................................79

6.1.3 The importance of religious practices for Marwaris................................................81

7 References..............................................................................................................................83
8 Attachments...........................................................................................................................86
Information Letter and Consent.................................................................................................86

Interview Guide.........................................................................................................................90

Questionnaire Set.......................................................................................................................93

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1 CHAPTER-I

Introduction

1.1.1 Background of the Study

This research is about the Hindu and Jain Marwaris living in Kathmandu, Nepal. It includes their
understanding of the identities related to their religion, social practices, cultural practices, and
belief amongst each other in their community. This thesis includes the information collected
from the Marwaris living in Kathmandu, Nepal, making it more meaningful and reliable. There
is more than eighty percent of people who are Hindus in Nepal despite being a secular country.
This research attempts to extract information about the similar or different ideologies regarding
the religion, its practices, and the behavior of the Marwaris living in Kathmandu (Letizia, 2018).
Nepal is a country with several different ethnic groups, religious communities, and cultures, a
central attraction for many immigrants. Unity in diversity is the main strength for attracting the
people from India as well, and Marwaris are one of them. India also shares a similar cultural
ethnicity background with Nepal, which influenced Marwaris migration to Nepal, especially in
Kathmandu. There are many similarities and differences in Nepal and India's social, economic,
political, and physical structure. Thus, it also visible in the people belonging to these countries.
Among many differences, the primary focus is on the Marwaris, who have migrated to Nepal
(Letizia, 2018).
Marwari is a South Asian ethnolinguistic group in Nepal and India who originated from the
Marwar region of Rajasthan and are generally the followers of Hinduism. This thesis is about the
mixture of Hinduism and Jainism among the Marwari people residing in Kathmandu, Nepal's
capital city. Marwari is already a highly successful business community (Kudaisya, 2003) and
rich in its cultural traits, then why the urge and the necessity of adopting the habits and beliefs of
Jainism within Hinduism is a matter of fascination and a topic of research at the first place. 
 
1.1.2 Objectives of the Study and research questions
This research attempts to understand the similarities, differences, experiences, ideologies, and
behavior of the Marwaris' religious and social identity living in Kathmandu, Nepal. Secondly,
the study investigates the rites of passage followed by Marwari in their social and moral
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surroundings. The study also examines the determinants for the women's, priests' and
businessmen's decisions taken as prioritizing their religion as Jain-Hindu. This paper helps
Marwaris to understand their culture deeply regarding their faith from the perspective of
migration. Further, this work provides a base to conduct future researches in this area on a large
scale, which are the limitations of this thesis.
The current study attempts to determine the rites of passage of Marwari culture from a Jain-
Hindu perspective. It can help benefits its members from this study. They will know the practices
which are responsible for fusing Jainism and Hinduism. They can identify the reasons for which
they were doing so. Hence, this study has a significant role in Marwari people.
Likewise, each religion has its own set of beliefs, and fusing the faith will impact the originality
and purity of the religion. Thus, Marwaris will be able to determine the traits of Hinduism and
Jainism. Moreover, future researchers are possible from conducting more advanced research on
this topic in upcoming days. They may take this research as a guideline and reference for their
prospective study and academic works. 
Religion is a set of beliefs and faith carried out with great devotion and dedication
(Juegensmeyer, 2003). However, recently, people tend to modify the meaning of religion and
practices according to their interest and comfort. Likewise, the influence of Jainism within
Hinduism in Marwari culture is becoming popular day by day. In this concern, this thesis is an
attempt to find out the present status of Marwari culture. Jainism is likely to have a significant
influence on Hinduism among the Marwari community since its origin. People are unaware of
the mixing of both this religion side by side. So, the fusion of these two religions has not resulted
in any conflict; instead, it is smooth and sound. This research's main objective is to determine the
actual status of rites of a passage formed with the interaction of Jain-Hindu Marwaris and
examine the behavior of women for the Jain-Hindu Marwaris.
Likewise, the study concerns the reasons for the necessity and criteria of inclusion of Jainism
within Hinduism by Marwari. For this, the research questions are as below:
I. What are the reasons for the mixture (both Hinduism and Jainism) among Marwaris? Are
these reasons social or religious?
II. What role do Marwari women play in the interaction of Jain- Hindu?
III. How does migration influence their cultural-religious identity?

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1.1.3 Methodological Approach
The methodology used in this thesis writing is qualitative research. The research area for this
thesis is the Nepalese Marwaris living in the Kathmandu Valley. The informants chosen are the
women, businessmen, and locals from Kathmandu who are either Hindu or Jain Marwaris. The
required information was collected through semi-structured questionnaires and interviews. Also,
there was a usage of online video chats and telephonic conversations. It was necessary as the
informants may not tell the correct information or get influenced or motivated by other
statements. 
This paper shows the inclusion of Jainism and Hinduism in Marwari culture amongst the people
who are living in Kathmandu. It is an important research topic as people are unknowingly mixing
these two distinct religions and regarding it as similar and different from their own individual's
perspective. This research aims to provide a platform covering the reasons for mixing up these
two religions, responsibilities, and outcomes. It also reveals the hidden and untold facts about the
Marwari's doctrine, which could occur through migration. Being a Marwari by myself, it was
both easy and challenging for me to extract the thesis's information. The horizontal portion was
the communication as I knew the language, religion, and the details of the informants; it was
comfortable for me and my sources to discuss the issue and topics. In contrast, the hard thing
was to get a clear understanding of people towards the subject as they would regard Jainism as
Hinduism.
There was also the usage of semi-structured questionnaires to make the sources familiar with the
topic. As my focused group was women, priests, and businessmen, I attended few events,
meetings, marriages, baby shower, weaning, and many more rituals from which I could observe
religious beliefs in the cultural aspects. It also helps in knowing the details and the authenticity
of the data. 

1.1.4 Theoretical Approach

The Theory of Hinduism and Jainism, cultural identity theory, migration theory, and gender
theory are the few theories used while writing this thesis. Since the research is all about the
Marwaris of Kathmandu, all these theories are applied as needed. Thus, the Theory of Hinduism
and Jainism will help in understanding better about both religions. Likewise, this thesis includes

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both religious and cultural perspectives. Hence, the cultural identity theory will help shape the
Marwaris, culture, practices, and beliefs. 
As mentioned before, Marwaris had migrated from India, so the migration theory is also essential
in knowing about them and making this thesis a complete one. Lastly, people's role in society is
critical to determine individuals' behavior and doings regarding their religion. Therefore, there is
the use of gender theory in this research. 

1.1.5 Limitations of the Study

Although the current study has many significance /importance in identifying the Marwari culture
and religion, the present study is not out of other past research limitations. Besides the limitation
of time, cost, and other resources for review, it has some more limitations as:
 The current study consists of a sample of thirty-six individuals of the Marwari
community residing in the Kathmandu Valley; the interview's main limitation is that the
responses may not represent the general overview.
 The people under this study are also limited because it includes the only Marwari culture
in Nepal limited to women, priests, and businessmen. 

1.1.6 Organization of the Study

This research paper organized in five chapters is; first, the section contains the introduction part,
which encompasses the study's background, statement of the problem, the study's objective, the
study's significance, limitations of the research, and organization of the study. This part includes
introducing the Marwaris, their religion, and the necessity of writing this thesis. It also focuses
on Hinduism and Jainism's impact on Marwaris.
The second chapter includes two parts. The first segment reviews the argument, books, related
articles, and reports, whereas the latter is about the study area's theoretical framework. Several
issues are covered in this section, such as religion, culture, gender, or migration. The theories are
relevant to these topics.
The third chapter is about research methodology, including the research design, population, and
sample, nature, and sources of data, data collection procedure. The study includes a semi-
structured interview research design. It gives an idea about the thesis that it is about the
Marwaris living in Kathmandu. Also, the women, priests, and businessperson who are
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responsible for shaping this culture with a duo religious perspective that is Hinduism and
Jainism.
The fourth chapter is the presentation and analysis of data collected from the interview. This
chapter concerns systemic presentation, analysis, and interpretation of data, and it will also
include significant findings of the research. The data presentation chapter is crucial because it
presents all the gathered information and sources as required. This thesis focuses on the
interview of the Hindu-Jain Marwaris of Kathmandu. The questions are based on the age,
gender, profession, and status of the individuals. The chapters are subdivided so that the data can
be clearly understood.
Lastly, the fifth chapter is the summary, conclusion, and recommendation based on the thesis's
analysis of findings. A review of the results is the outcome of the interviews. The impact of
Hindu-Jain Marwari culture in the community is understandable when the data is processed
through their knowledge, understanding, and religious practices. It helped them know their
culture better as it presents the similarities and differences in their practices. It also defines their
identity as a Hindu-Jain Marwari in Kathmandu. The role of Marwari women in shaping their
culture is also an important aspect included in this chapter. The theories and ideas of Hinduism-
Jainism theory, migration theory, cultural identity theory, and gender theory have helped in the
research project's findings.
Bibliography and Appendix presented at the end of the study.

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2 CHAPTER-II

Literature Review

2.1.1 Theoretical approach

The most crucial part of thesis writing is Theory. It is the lens of the texts, which gives the
insight to look upon the book accurately. It helps in describing and perceiving different social as
well as cultural situations. It is challenging to research without Theory. "Theory provides the
language, the concepts, and assumptions that help researcher to make sense of the phenomenon
that they seek to investigate. It enables researchers to connects the issues they are investigating to
the existing body of knowledge in the area" (Kuada, 2012, p. 64).
Hence, there are four kinds of approaches that can relate to this thesis. They are the Theory of
Hinduism and Jainism, Identity theory, Migration Theory, and Gender Studies, which can better
define the dual practices of Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari culture. These theories will help
explore the different layers of Marwari culture and traditions one by one. The Theory of
Hinduism and Jainism covers the religious perspective of the Marwari community. Likewise,
identity theory presents the cultural traits which make the Marwari culture distinct from others.
Besides, migration theory helps us understand the origins and current situation of Marwaris.
Finally, the gender theory must explain the similar and different roles of men and women in
Marwari culture.

2.1.2 Theory of Hinduism and Jainism

Hinduism believes in reincarnation, the cycle of rebirth into a new life after death in a previous
one. It has its belief in the karma of human beings and God. For Hindus, God takes birth from
time to time, also known as 'avatarwad.' Multiple Gods and Goddesses represent the role that
people should follow as society members.
Hinduism has a vast reservoir of symbolic resources, which includes a variety of
philosophical ideas, an extensive body of texts, an array of ritual practices, and an
abundant iconography. These are not, and are unlikely to become, a homogeneous entity.
Hindus will continue to draw upon these symbolic resources: selecting, transforming and

6
 reinterpreting them in different ways that provide renewed relevance to the particular
contexts of time and place. (Jacobs, The Future, 2010, p. 145)
Hinduism indeed includes a variety of ideas and information regarding its practices. There are
multiple religious texts books on Hinduism as well. However, there is no concrete way of
defining or practicing Hinduism. The practices depend upon the individual or mutual
understanding of a particular group and community. The identity and role represented by
different Gods and Goddesses are transformed and explained by people depending upon their
understanding. Such transformations and interpretations vary because of the geographical
structures, social, political, economic status, and cultural traditions. Besides, Hinduism also
follows the Brahmana system. It has the division of class and caste, based on the occupation of
the people.
In contrast, Jainism is a path to spiritual purity and enlightenment achieved through disciplined
non-violence. It teaches the way to liberation and lives a life of harmlessness and renunciation.
Jainism believes that all souls have the capability of being liberated and becoming God. It also
concerns the welfare of every being in the universe and the universe itself (Long, 2009). It
follows the Shramana school of thought.
The Sanskrit word Jaina derives from Jina, ‘conqueror’, an epithet given to a line of human
teachers who, having overcome the passions and obtained enlightenment, teach the true
doctrine of non-violence and subsequently attain the freedom from rebirth which
constitutes spiritual deliverance. The Jains are the most basic level those who credit these
spiritual conquerors with total authority and act according to their teaching of the Three
Jewels, namely, right knowledge, right faith and right conduct. (Dundas, 2002, p. 3)
Jainism believes in human teachers rather than mythological Gods and Goddesses. People can
achieve the post of the teacher through obtaining enlightenment. These teachers' main aim is to
spread non-violence among people in the path of following Jainism. The individual can gain
‘moksha’ from rebirth if he/she indeed follows the proper way of knowledge, faith, and conduct.
Hinduism is diverse and open to accept and include different ideologies in its practices. While
comparing Hinduism with other religions and especially Jainism, it can be said that Hinduism is
much liberal. Nevertheless, the understanding of Hinduism with other religions depends upon the
individual’s explanation.

7
 The relationship between Hinduism and other religious traditions tends towards three different
attitudes. The first perceives other religious world views as simply irrelevant; the second
seeks dialogue with other religious worldviews; the third represents other religions as a
potential or actual threat. (Jacobs, The Future, 2010, p. 140)
The relationship of Hinduism with other religions is peaceful. It is evident in the relationship
between Hinduism and Jainism. Jainism is often regarded as the "poor sister," meaning that it is
influenced and originated from Hinduism. It is considered as a branch of Hinduism like
Buddhism and Sikhism. The practices of Jainism, Buddhism, and Sikhism are very obvious in
Hinduism practices as well. Most religions do not make any difference to Hindus, whereas few
take it as a threat leading to several religious fights and war.
However, both religions believe in the Theory of Karma and the existence of a soul and its
reincarnation. These religions are Dharmic, emphasizing to live in a virtuous manner to achieve
freedom from reincarnation. Hinduism and Jainism have a philosophy developed system. Both
religions follow vegetarianism and meditation depending upon their caste and culture, and
Marwaris are one of them. The origin of Jainism was more connected to the caste system rather
than the religion itself. It is visible on the dominant castes of Rajasthan, and Marwari is one of
them. Even though Marwaris have a large number of Hindu followers, there are Jain followers as
well. The Marwari community follows both Hinduism and Jainism depending upon their cultural
and traditional traits. The majority of which is Hindus. All the practices and rituals are done
according to the Hindu perspective. Nevertheless, Marwaris like to incorporate practical
knowledge of Jainism in their daily activities.

2.1.2.1 Hinduism in Marwaris

One of the oldest religions followed in Nepal and India is Hinduism. Despite being a secular
country, Nepal has the most considerable number of people following Hinduism. Among them,
Marwaris are the ones who mostly follow Hinduism but also a part of them follow Jainism. The
varied and diverse intake of ideas and practices of both religions is prevalent in the Marwari
culture.
Like all religious traditions, Hinduism is very diverse. However, it can be said that the
diversity of Hinduism is of a completely different order to the diversity found in other
religious traditions. The reason for this claim of radical diversity is that Hinduism has no
8
 founder figure or foundational event, no universally accepted canon of texts, no credal
statement and no overarching institutional structure. There is no single source of
authority that universally applies to all Hindus for all times. There is nothing that you can
say about Hindus or Hinduism without some form of qualification (Jacobs, Hinduism:
The Basics, 2010, p. 6).
Caste defines people called Hindus, depending upon their traditional and cultural values. There
are no definite practices in becoming a Hindu. However, Hinduism is very diverse and different
from other religions as it has a belief in idols and reincarnation. It is believed that Hinduism is
open in accepting multiple idols and their ideologies. There is practicing of the rites of passage,
including the cycle of birth and death, reincarnation, and the path of right actions and fairness.
Hinduism holds a detailed yet straightforward social and religious structure of rituals, traditions,
and beliefs. Yet, it does not have a founder and does not give a particular basis for
Hinduism. Multiple religious textbooks with a variety of meanings are part of Hinduism.
The same can be observed in the Marwari community. Marwaris believe in Hinduism and
emulate their practices. The practices of religious and cultural events, festivals, and rituals are
done according to Hinduism. The rites of passage that is birth, puberty, marriage, and death are
followed and practiced according to Hinduism.

2.1.2.2 Jainism in Marwaris

One of India's ancient religions is Jainism, with roughly 4.5 million adherents in India and a
small but flourishing overseas community. The 2011 Indian census gives the figure of 4.2
million, but this is likely an undercount because some Jains return themselves as Hindu (Babb,
Understanding Jainism (Understanding Faith), 2015). The same can be seen in the Jain Marwaris
living in Kathmandu, Nepal. Being in the minority group of Jain Marwaris, few people regard
themselves as Hindus despite practicing and following Jainism's path.
The world (by which we are to understand, not only the visible, but also imaginary continents
depicted with the most extravagant fancy, heavens and hells of the Brahmanical
Cosmology, extended by new discoveries) is uncreated. It exists without ruler, only by
the power of its elements, and is everlasting. The elements of the world are six substances
—souls, Dharma or moral merit, Adharma or sin, space, time, particles of matter. From
the union of the latter spring four elements—earth, fire, water, wind—and further, bodies
9
 and all other appearances of the world of sense and of the supernatural worlds. (Georg,
n.d.)
Jainism believes in universality as opposed to Brahmanism. It provides a base for people to adopt
their principles without leaving their religion. Caste does not define people as Jains. It includes
everyone, regardless of their caste and race. Hence, many people from different castes and
religions follow Jainism. There is no specific leader who can make people follow this religion.
Instead, it accepts the reality of worldly elements. Jainism assumes that protecting the earth will
eventually protect humans and humanity. Caring and preserving the four vital components: earth,
fire, water, and wind, will help people distinguish between what is right and wrong. Jainism
holds a general and straightforward structure of practicing its belief.
Marwaris are seen to incorporate the same practices in their day to day activities. Despite a large
portion of their religious belief is set up on Hinduism and its practices, people still include Jain
culture and traditions. The practices of religious and cultural events, festivals, and rituals are
done according to Hinduism, but the everyday practice of humanity is followed according to
Jainism.

2.1.3 Knowing a Hindu-Jain Marwari 

In understanding a Marwari, it is equally essential to know Hinduism and Jainism. Both of these
religions religiously shape the Marwari culture and give an identity to the group. "For most
Hindus, what they do- what rituals they practice, the festival they celebrate, who they marry,
what they eat- matters more on a day-to-day basis than the philosophical concepts of karma,
samsara, and moksha" (Flueckiger, 2015, pp. 1-2). Hindu Marwaris indeed follow the practice
and prepare things according to their religion. However, the daily activities hold a more
incredible place in their life than the universal truth of Hinduism.
Similarly, Jain Marwaris also practice their religious belief practically. There are several
narratives essential for understanding the different ways Jain Marwaris are religious today. Such
narratives provide divergent religiosity models appropriate for renouncers, laywomen, or laymen
in which the Jain communities participate. There are also religiosity types shared by laymen and
laywomen (Fohr, Jainism : A guide for the perplexed, 2015, p. 91). They believe in celebrating
religious festivals, performing prayers, and practicing rituals as crucial parts of their lives.

10
 Some of the most common ways this is true in all sects and sub-sects include religious
festivals, prayers or mantras, and the veneration of renouncers. However, devotional
worship using images is also an important type of religiosity for Digambara laypeople
and Svetambara-Murtipujak laypeople. (Fohr, Jainism : A guide for the perplexed, 2015,
p. 91)
There are certain divisions of people among Jainism, depending upon their sects and sub-sects.
Among them, Jains categorized as Marwaris have distinct features of following their religious
belief compared to the rest of Jains. Some of the Jain Marwaris also practice worshipping the
images and idols of mythological figures as done by Hindu Marwaris. Such Marwaris are
devotional regarding their religious practice but are unaware of the main crux of Jainism.
Osval Jains, a group that considered itself Hindu and Jain, can be a fair reflection of Jain/Hindu
synchronization. Osval's insists that they were once Rajputs, a warrior caste, also known as
Kshetriya, but eventually changed into Vaisyas/Baniyas in the path of being a Jain. One such
example is from India's historical figure, Chandragupta Maurya, a Hindu Kshetriya King,
eventually turned to be a Jain to gain salvation and peace (Sreenivasan, 2007).
Marwaris are known as merchants and hold business professions. From the religious point of
view, a Marwari, be it Hindu or Jain, is mostly involved in the business as their professions.
Marwari's religious identities mixed up depending upon their class, gender, and profession
(Long, 2009). They follow the Hindu rituals and traditions for their religious belief. However,
they also practice Jains’ path of non-violence and penance.
Similarly, the intermarriages between the Jains and Vaisnava traced back to the late fifteenth
century. The most popular Jain and Baniyas, or in other words, Jain and Hindu relationship, is
seen in the Marwaris culture of Rajasthan, also known as Agrawals (Sreenivasan, 2007).
One of the most evitable things for Marwari is a donation or charity. They do it for various
reasons such as social cause, religious faith, and sometimes helping each other. The act of
donations is also the key concept in Jainism. "Jainism one of the main religious practices of
laymen is giving donations, and for the same reasons: merit and prestige" (Fohr, Jainism : A
guide for the perplexed, 2015, p. 20). The act of doing charity also explains their social and
economic status in society. Mostly donations and charity are made in the religious context in
comparison to humanity. For example, the highest donations and charities are given to temples.
Likewise, during religious festivals such as Maha Shivaratri and Makar Sankranti, the charities
11
are done at its peak even if the person is from the middle class economically. Nevertheless,
donations and charities are also given to the health care centers, nursing homes, and orphanages
depending upon the individual or the family choice.
Likewise, being a Hindu or Jain, Marwari has a strict rule regarding consuming vegetarian foods
and avoiding non-vegetarian food. Such restriction on the dietary items is related to both the
religious and cultural backgrounds. There is no tradition of sacrificing the animals during any
religious events of Marwaris, although immolating animals during religious festivals are vital in
Hinduism. Such a tradition of not slaughtering the animals also represents Marwaris' cultural
distinctness regarding its religious ideology. Likewise, Jains avoid eating underground
vegetables such as potato, ginger, garlic, onion, etc. to prevent the environment and not harm the
insects and microorganisms. They even avoid consuming honey, as many bees are killed in the
process of making honey. Hence, Marwaris practices their version of consuming vegetarian
foods.
Hence, it can be rightly said that Hinduism and Jainism is a part of the Marwari culture. It has
shaped the Marwari community the way it is. The day-to-day activities, celebrating festivals,
following the rites of passage, practicing lifetime events, and many others represent Hinduism
and Jainism in Marwari culture. The majority of Hindu beliefs are prominent than the Jain
practices by Marwaris. The sole decision to practice either of these religions is by the individual
himself/herself or the family.

2.1.4 Marwari Gotras and Their Origin:

The history of Marwaris begins with the establishment of the republican state of Agroha by
Maharaj Agrasen. Agroha consisted of eighteen state units. Each state unit's head holds a 'Gotra.'
Those gotras identified all the state unit residents. Maharaj Agrasen maintained that a
matrimonial alliance in the same Gotra was not possible. A girl of "Bansal" Gotra could not
marry a "Bansal boy" but could be married in any other seventeen Gotras. This rule promoted
harmony and brotherhood among all the eighteen Gotras (Marwadisamaaj, n.d.).
Many Agrawals have adopted their gotra name as their surname. Gupta is a common surname
adopted by some Agrawal's, and several partial Agrawal families like 'Gadia,' 'Saini,' 'Vishnoi'
and 'Varshney.' There is some debate over whether Varshney belongs to the Vaishya (merchants
and artisans or Kshatriya (warriors, rulers, and politicians) castes. Many others use surnames
12
linked with their origin, for example, Jhunjhunwala, Kedia, Gindodiya, Kalothia, Dokania,
Lohia, Chamaria, Singhania, so on. There are minute differences in dialect, attires, and rituals
from the place they come (Marwadisamaaj, n.d.).

2.1.5 Knowing the Agrawals

The term ‘Agrawal’ is derived from the Agragen state founded by Maharaj Agrasen. The texts,
myths, legends, and stories originated from Agroha, ruled by Agrasen. The origin of the Marwari
community traces its roots from northern India.
The Agrawal's are a very large trading caste of northern India and are so-called because they
trace their origin to the ancient city of Agroha in what is now the state of Haryana. In
each of India's linguistic regions will be found an array of such social entities, and some
of them extend spatially beyond regional frontiers (Babb, Understanding Jainism
(Understanding Faith), 2015).
Agrawal, in general, refers to the Marwari people who are the children of Agrasen. Agrawal took
as their surname despite having their different individuals' names. They are the most influential
and prosperous communities worldwide. They are very well known for their business and their
contribution to the economy of a particular place, country, and the world.
Similarly, a large group of Agrawals resides in Kathmandu, Nepal. They are directly or
indirectly related to India, and their families' source begins from India. Initially, the migration
started within India in search of expansion and development of trade and business. They began
moving towards the eastern part of India, which also open gateways to enter Nepal. There is a
vast Marwari community in Nepal's eastern part, as noticed in Jhapa, a city. Gradually, they
moved to the capital city of Nepal, Kathamndu, and made it their permanent residence.
In Nepal, Marwaris are popularly known as Agrawals. Their surname provides their identity of
being a Marwari. However, Agrawals as surnames are used by both Hindu and Jain Marwaris.
The influence of Jainism regarding Hinduism flourished from India to the Marwaris residing in
Nepal. It is because Marwaris belongs to a well-reputed and settled community and hence, can
afford to incorporate many practices and belief systems. Thus, Hinduism and Jainism's dual
practices have helped them become a unique and distinct community in Nepal.

13
2.1.6 Marwari Culture and Traditions

It is vital to look upon the cultural and traditional perceptions and practices of that group to
understand any individual culture. It includes birth, marriage, death, language, food, art, music,
and health. Likewise, Marwari culture enriched with all its traditional values of living from birth
to death and vice versa as it believes in reincarnation. Both the Hindu and Jain Marwaris believe
in not wearing footwear inside temples, shrines, and other holy places. Entering the temples after
drinking alcohol, eating non-vegetarian foods, or wearing leather accessories is prohibited
(Hinduism Facts, 2019).

From the mythological point of view, both Hinduism and Jainism share the literary characters
from each other. The adoption of Krishna" in Jainism and "Mahavira" in Hinduism regards it as
the first synchronization level. Despite the disagreement on borrowing each other's characters in
their mythological literary texts and giving their origin and identity, there is an underlying
mutual understanding of acceptance.

There are several festivals celebrated by the Marwaris residing in Kathmandu. Their annual
festivals are Tihar (also known as Deepawali), Dashain, Holi, Teej, Chhath, Maghe Sakranti,
Maha Shivaratri, etc. For example, Tihar is the main festival for Marwaris as it is about money.
They also celebrate Holi, the festivals of colors to celebrate the win of vice over virtue.
Likewise, Teej is a festival observed by women mostly married for the betterment of their life
partners. Festivals and celebrations are enriched with food, dance, music, and practices with
Marwari flavors. Likewise, they also practice religious functions as 'Namakaran' (naming a
child), 'vivaha' (marriage ceremony), 'shraddha' (feeding the dead parents), and others in
connection with the passage of life (Marwadisamaaj, n.d.).

Marwaris have established several temples, organizations, and events in Kathmandu, Nepal.
There are several Hindu temples and Jain associations in Kathmandu and other parts of eastern
Nepal. Most of them serve around both the Hindus and Jains living in Nepal. One of the oldest
temples named Pashupatinath places a tremendous religious faith for Marwaris. The temple is
where the religious practices, traditions, and rituals are carried out as per the occasion and the
devotee's requirements. It is worship and gatherings for religious preaches. The establishment of
cultural organizations by the Marwaris in Kathmandu, such as Marwari Sewa Samiti, Jain
Bhawan, Agrawal Bhawan, helps in the duo relation of both Jain-Hindu Marwari community.
14
There are different views and ways of understanding religion, depending upon an individual's
interest. Social and religious events and celebrations make the people believe in developing a
stronger relationship with each other in the Marwari community. The practices and religious
beliefs can be traditional and conservative as well as modern. For Marwaris, when it comes to
working in the kitchen and toilets, they are traditional and conservative. They believe work is the
purest identity of the culture. As a result, toilets are built away from the kitchen, temple, and
holy places. Likewise, if there is any of the relatives' demise, the surviving relatives must notice
the funeral ritual for thirteen days. Sometimes, several rituals and practices are modified to pace
with time, presenting Marwaris' modern thought regarding their religion.

2.1.7 Rites of Passage in Marwaris 

Rites of passage described as the transitional periods in a person's life include birth, puberty,
marriage, having children, and death. It includes ritual activities and teachings that describe their
existing roles and prepare them for a new one. In the Marwari community, rites of passage have
a vital and significant role, presenting their religious, cultural identity. It also reflects the life-
cycle ceremonies, social ceremonies, religious ceremonies, and other ceremonies. All the rituals
have a symbolic aspect of the culture. However, the primary rites of passage are the most
important ones, such as birth, puberty, marriage, and death. Marwari culture shows the alikeness
and variations between the Marwaris itself from the perspective of Hinduism and Jainism by
witnessing a blend of practices from these two religions. It represents their socio-cultural as well
as human-made aspects of their well being.

2.1.7.1 Birth

Childbirth, regarded as one of the Marwari culture's top traditional things, is usually not a
personal matter. There are different types of rituals depending upon nature and people involved
in the childbirth, such as mother, father, family members, relatives, and non-familial members.
They take it as a joyful and happy event. It usually begins with the noting of the pregnancy first
until the child is delivered. The pregnant woman takes proper care, rest, and individual food
items to have a safe pregnancy, termed as 'Japa' by Marwaris. Earlier, the expectant mothers
isolated from other family members, thinking that the blood might impure the household,

15
whereas, for fathers, there were nothing rituals. Women are also subjected to observing food
taboos, avoiding contact with others, touching certain metals, cooking, eating, etc. Moreover,
they are not even allowed to scratch themselves as it might leave a scratch forever.

There are certain rituals in the eighth month to avoid any evil deeds to the mother and child,
amongst which baby shower is one. In the Marwari term, it is "Godvarai." Here, the expected
mother is given money, gifts, coconut, and sweets as a blessing by other elder ladies to have a
safe delivery. They also sing and dance to show their happiness in welcoming the new member
of the family. The expected mother and father tie a sacred thread in her wrist, protecting them
from the evil eyes.

Both mother and child have placed nearby the fire for a few days to preserve the wood fire from
evils after the baby is delivered. They also carry out therapy with oil, believing it improves their
reproductive organs. They cannot see mirrors, comb hairs, change clothes, or even get out of the
room. The baby and the mother take a shower and offer a 'Puja' for 'Chhath Mata' on the sixth
day after childbirth, believing the Goddesses write a future for the baby. After this, the woman
can come out of the room and do the household activities.

Depending upon the astrological chart of the baby, a naming ceremony 'Namkaran' is held." It is
a ceremony conducted after a baby's birth depending upon their celestial bodies and a girl or a
boy, as suggested by the astrologer or priest. They occur after seven days for girls and eleven
days for boys (Leonard K., 2013).

2.1.7.2 Puberty

Puberty is often regarded as the critical rituals in Marwari culture as it is mainly related to
women. The rituals carried out for adolescence includes girls when they first start their menstrual
cycle. It is important because they believe that now the girl is ready to become a woman. In
earlier days, a girl was married before their period started to avoid the family's shame. However,
nowadays, it has been a part of regular practice.

There are also traditions of piercing ears and nose whereby the relatives must bring gifts for the
girl. Notably, the maternal uncle must give a certain kind of dowry for this ritual. Marwaris term
it as 'Parojan.' Parojan is essential for a girl because she will not be eligible for marriage without

16
this. Likewise, they also carry out 'Bhog Varan' to prepare five kilos of 'lapsi' (porridge) in a
traditional pot. The girl dressed up as a bride with henna on her hands and served all-female
guests with the food to offer her blessings for the future marriage.

2.1.7.3 Marriage

Similarly, marriage is another big event that reflects the Marwari culture to the most and distinct
from others. It is one of the oldest social, cultural, and religious-based institutions. Marriage in
Marwari culture makes family bonds stronger and relief because their daughter is finally getting
settled. There are certain rituals followed by both Jain and Hindu Marwaris regarding the
marriage. Marrying in the same clan 'gotra' is not acceptable as the same gotra means siblings'
bonds. Likewise, Marwaris also avoids marriage with cousins.

Marriage is a big event, and there are certain phases for it. Firstly, both the boy's and girl's
celestial bodies made to match, making them a perfect couple. Then certain ceremonies are
conducted. Initially, the rings exchanging tradition, which is known as the engagement
ceremony, hold. 'Shagun' is given to both would-be bride and groom from their family members
as blessings. The next thing would be "Haldi and Mehendi," whereby both the bride and groom
are applied turmeric and henna to enhance their beauty and symbolize fertility and well-being.
Henna is the symbol of fertility and hence not used by widows. They also carry out 'Jhol Ghlan'
and 'Vaat Varan,' which is usually done by both the bride's and groom's maternal uncle,
respectively.

An essential step in Marwari's marriage is 'Fera' and 'Sindoor Daan.' The couple takes seven
vows, making circles around the fire, making it a witness for their new future. In the first three
vows, the bride is ahead of the groom, and in the latter four, the groom is ahead. The promises
determine their future duties and roles with each other. It also establishes their social positions
and obligations in society. Finally, 'Suhagraat,' which officially allows the couple to physically
intimate with each other. All other events are accompanied by folk songs, music, and dance. A
considerable decoration of houses, dishes, clothes, flowers makes Marwaris wedding a grand one
and distinct from others.

17
2.1.7.4 Death
Likewise, death is considered to be an essential part of life. Marwaris believe in another life after
death. Thus, there are certain rites and rituals performed on the peaceful journey of the dead
person. Usually, a male person takes charge of burning the dead body and performing the duties
for thirteen days, whereby he must wear a white drape and only eat fruits and juice. He must
avoid eating salt and grains. It is a ritual to mourn over the dead and help him get away with the
earthly desires. It is not a ritual of happiness rather saddening but integral.  
Marwaris have their way of remembering the dead. They call them 'Pitri.' Pitri worshipping is an
unseen divine power who looks after the family after being gone. To make them happy and
peaceful, they also perform "Shradh" by offering them food, clothes, and accessories to the
priest. Usually, the food is made as per the dead's choice and the clothes and things to relate to
the dead person.

2.1.8 Cultural Identity Theory

Cultural identity is self-identification. It is a sense of belonging to a group that reaffirms itself
through behavior, culture, and traditions. It includes values, meanings, customs, and beliefs that
reflect the everyday historical experiences and shared cultural codes giving entity to a stable,
unchanging, continuing frame of reference and meaning. It is the continually shifting
understanding of one's identity concerning others. Knowing whether they belong to a cultural
group, peoples' judgment is highly influenced by appearance, origin, or behavior (dress,
language, festivals, and art) (Hecht & Frank, 2003). Any culture's identity is reflected through its
language, art and craft, music and dance, festivals, dress, food, and occupation. Likewise, to
know the Marwari community, it is essential to understand their language, art and craft, music
and dance, festivals, dress, food, and occupation.
Cultural identity negotiated, co-created, and reinforced during social interaction, which are the
manifestations of social reality, reflecting on our unique personal life history and experience.
The cultural identity forms involving the options about the cultures an individual identifies with
and deciding to join the artistic community to which one belongs. Sometimes, the beliefs and
practices of one or more communities can also be adapted. There is a possibility for dominant or
majority culture members to adopt the features from minority cultures such as food, dress,
language, or music. There is overlapping and non-overlapping of cultural and sub-cultural groups
18
in any individual. Therefore, different identities at different levels make up cultural identity
(Hecht & Frank, 2003). The Marwari culture is structured with two belief system of Hinduism
and Jainism. The majority of Hindus have adopted the Jain practices in their belief patterns,
although Jain Marwaris are few. The practices of these two religions make the Marwari culture a
unique one and distinct from others.
Cultural identity defines communication and social order. It is the expression of oneself to the
other and the opinion about others towards them. It is also revealing the others’ view towards
that individual. This research focuses on how Jain-Marwaris considers Hindu-Marwaris and vice
versa. The use of core symbols such as names, labels, and norms (expected standard of behavior)
demonstrates their shared identity. For instance, A Jain Marwari uses Jain as his/her surname
while the Hindu Marwari uses their gotra as the surnames.
While many Jain merchants might often subsume their identity as Jains within the broader,
and depending on context, more meaningful category of Mahajan, the name of the
merchant caste to which both Jains and Hindus can belong, others might be more
conscious of their exclusive identity as Jains. (Dundas, 2002, p. 6)
Marwaris are known as merchants, whether they are Hindu or Jain. Generally, both the Hindu
and Jain Marwaris use ‘Agrawal’ as their shared surname. Their culture, instead of religion,
defines the identity of Marwaris. However, most of the Marwaris follow Hinduism, making Jain
Marwaris a little conscious of their identity. Hence, they define themselves as Hindu despite
being Jain.
The act and interactivity of the group and their standard practices reflect the identity of the
group. One can identify or study cultural identity in a group by observing everyday situations,
communal activities, rituals, holiday celebrations—the identity changes due to several factors
such as social, political, economic, and contextual. There are emotions fully attached to cultural
identity situations. It implies an artistic explanation of the one in control, their extent of
proximity, the feeling about each other, level of trust. The degree of alikeness or differences
between two individuals determines it. The intensity differs depending on the context, situation
topic, and relationship (Colier & Thomas).
 

19
2.1.8.1 Language

Marwari is a dialect spoken in the Indian state of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, and now also by
the Marwaris in Nepal, especially in Kathmandu and Jhapa. There are almost twenty-three
dialects of the Rajasthani language, among which Marwari is one. Historically, written in
Mahajani script, which used fewer vowels and more consonants, later, popularly written in
Devanagari script as in Hindi, Marathi, Nepali, and Sanskrit have mainly spoken by the Indo-
Aryan family (Saraf, 2016).

Marwari is very rich in the literary style and has a history of over one thousand years known as
Dingal. The grammar included chapters on its phonology, morphology, syntax, and a sample
text. The introductory section consists of a geographical and socio-linguistic draft of Marwaris
speaking it. Vowels, consonants, diphthongs, and suprasegmental are part of the phonology
chapter. Glottalized sounds, murmur vowels, tones, and retroflex are very prominent in it. The
section on morphology describes nominal and verbal morphology with two numbers and genders
and three cases. The nouns declined as per their ending segments, in which case marking is
partly inflectional. The third-person pronouns distinguish on the proximity/remoteness
dimension in each gender. Intransitive verbs can be passive with three tenses, and four moods
and cardinals up to ten are inflected. The syntax section describes sentence types, word order,
coordination, subordination, negation, and participles. The section on sample texts presents free
and interlinear translations of some samples (Saraf, 2016).

2.1.8.2 Music and Dance 

As cultural behavior, music and dance reflect and are primarily born out of values, attitudes, and
beliefs. The conceptualization of dance is finalized through body movements, and its physical
structure depends mainly on the choreographer/dancer's cultural orientation. As a bodily
expression of the culture, it represents the body works within the given framework of the
learning or creates one in its absence. It also involves cognitive and emotional behavior,
processing internal feelings and outward expressions, in an individual or a group. It acts as a tool
for the maintenance of identity and social solidarity. It also reflects, shapes, and maintains
patterns of social organization. Music and dance also act as the forum for discourse, articulation,
and transmission of social and political attitudes, ideas, and values.
20
As an activity deeply linked with everyday practices, dance among Marwaris deeply enmeshed
in their regular cycle of events, which have specific rituals as per their economic calendar and
festivities. They use many traditional instruments such as 'sarangi,’ 'kamayach,’ 'dhols,’ 'shehnai,'
and 'been.' Folk songs were usually for specific purposes like weddings or birth passed to tell a
bravery story or a romantic tale. They were generally in the form of ballads (Jhaveri, n.d.).

The dance is varied as well, depending upon different tribes as it was mainly for entertaining the
people and the king. These dances included chang, ghoomer, bhopa, tejali, and kathipuli. As a
traditional dance, Ghoomar is represented during weddings by a newly married bride. It is also
accomplished in festivals and religious events, often including classic songs such as "Gorband,”
"Podina,” "Rumal," and "Mor Bole Re" (Jhaveri, n.d.).

2.1.8.3 Art and craft 

Marwaris are not too involved in the art and craft category, but obviously, the Rajasthani culture
and traditions significantly impact them. Rajasthan has a well-known craft industry reflecting
their Royal heritage. Craft reflects the tradition in Rajasthan, preserved over centuries by the
stronghold of the Royal Rajput family. Within the art industry is smaller occupations. These
include fabric coloration and embellishment, decorative painting, and exhibition. Craft workers
take their occupation as a mark of respect to their heritage. In fabric coloration, woven fabrics
are treated using tie-dyeing, resist dyeing, and direct application. The dupatta worn by women
shows the popularity of dyeing. Fabrics embellished with mirror embroidery, symbolic to
Rajasthan, and wooden beading once dyed. Decorative patterns adorn all surfaces in Rajasthan.
Interiors of homes painted with floral motifs; similar 'bindi' (dotted) designs seen on garments.
The clipped camel is unique to Rajasthan. Moral message. The Rajasthani craft industry is iconic
to India's identity, with many of its styles reaching the international market (Jhaveri, n.d.).

The architecture in Rajasthan is as diverse as its people. The method of architecture is M'ru-
Gurjara Architecture (techniques that include various structures and shapes). In Ranakpur, the
Jain temple, built in the 15th century, is a western Indian architecture style with multiple domes.
There are carvings on the pillars and the ceilings. Jaisalmer Fort and Golden Fort were
established in 1156 AD by the Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal. The fort contained several gates, Jain

21
temples, and Havelis and included UNESCO's world heritage site. Jaipur, named the Pink City,
is listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site, 2019 (Jhaveri, n.d.).

2.1.8.4 Dress

Unlike any other culture, Marwaris, too, have distinct dresses for men and women. Men prefer
wearing dhotis and kurtas with a headgear called 'pagri' or 'safah.' Pagri is one of Rajasthan's
most important as it defines their social and economic status. Their color, cloth, design, and
shape- everything symbolizes individuality. The width of a Pagri is eight inches, and length is
about eighty feet. The ordinary man wears a Pagri of a single color while a rich man wears a
multicolored designer Pagri during festivals or events. 'Dhotis' or 'Pyjamas' are used to cover the
lower portion of the body, which are not comfortable to wear and need some practice, especially
the white ones. Nevertheless, people in Rajasthan wear cotton dhotis regularly. They prefer silk
and with the Zari border or embroidery (Jain V. , Vibrant Rajasthani Dresses, n.d.).

While talking about women's clothing, 'Ghagra,' the long skirt covers the lower portion of the
body with a narrow waist and broad base, reaching just above the ankles. It is short of providing
visibility to the foot ornaments. They come in many prints and colors. There are many creases
and studded ornaments in the Ghaghara itself. Like Pagris, they are also found in cotton and
printed in laharia. Mothra and Chunari. The blouses or short Kurtis which women wear are
known as cholis. It depends on the caste, religion, and age of women to select the material they
use, either cotton or silk, and the waist's reach. 'Odhni' worn over the blouse, with one end tucked
into the skirt and the other end on the head or the shoulders made by a three-meter-long and two-
meter-wide cloth, printed in different colors and designs. It varies in different religions and
castes. In some places, saree is mandatory for women to wear with the 'odhni' covering their
heads as a sign of respect. The shoes called 'Mojaris' or 'Jootis' are made of animals' skin and
embellished with embroidery on velvet or brocade. Both men and women wear these (Jain V. ,
Vibrant Rajasthani Dresses, 2020).

Marwaris have a very peculiar taste when it comes to ornaments and jewelry. Semi-precious
stone-studded trinkets are trendy. Even the men wear ear-studs and neckpieces. Gold or pearl
chains are familiar among the rich, and silver 'hansli' (big round bracelet around the neck) is
worn by the commoners. Women wear 'jhumkas' in ears, multicolored bangles, long and short
22
beautiful neckpieces, large anklets, rings, nose rings whose unique designs take inspiration from
the sun, moon, leaves, and flowers. Every design signifies something sacred, having a deep
meaning (Jain V. , Vibrant Rajasthani Dresses, n.d.).

2.1.8.5 Festivals

The traditional festival of Marwaris is quite long. Notably, women dress up in their traditional
attires for the festival. Deepawali or Diwali is undoubtedly the biggest and the brightest of all
Hindu festivals. The festival of lights marked by five days of celebration, illumining the country
with its brilliance and dazzles all with its joy (Marwadisamaaj, n.d.).

Bhaiyya Duj is the festival celebrated on the fifth day of Diwali. It falls on the second day after
Diwali is on 'Shukla Paksha Dwitiya' in the Hindi month of 'Kartik.' 'Dwitiya' or 'Duj' is the
second day after the new moon. This festival is famous has different names such as 'Bhai-Dooj'
in north India and 'Bhai-Teeka' in Nepal. On this day, sisters apply a beautiful 'Tilak' or 'Teeka'
on their brothers' forehead and perform 'aarti' by offering them sweets and exchanging gifts.
Sisters lavished with gifts, goodies, and blessings from their brothers (Marwadisamaaj, n.d.).

Govardhan Puja celebrated on the fourth day. Mythologically, Gokul's people celebrated a
celebration in honor of Lord Indra after the end of every monsoon season. Still, one specific
year, the prayers were not offered, and Indra sent a deluge to submerge Gokul. However,
Krishna saved his Gokul by lifting the Govardhan mountain and holding it over the people as an
umbrella located in Braj, near Mathura. On this day, Marwaris build cow-dung hillocks
decorated with flowers and then worship them (Marwadisamaaj, n.d.).

Another big festival celebrated by Marwaris in the nine-night festival of Navratri, which begins
on the new moon day of 'Ashwin' month in the Hindu calendar. These days are considered the
most auspicious time and the most crucial time of the year as it is the Divine Mother's worship.
Celebration with sincere devotion in the various temples dedicated to the Mother performed. It is
a festival solely dedicated to the female aspect of nature known as Durga, Bhawani, Amba, Uma,
Parvati, Gauri (Marwadisamaaj, n.d.).

Marwaris also wonderfully celebrates Holi marking Holika's death to save Prahlad, and thus Holi
gets its name. Holika Dahan is celebrated by burning Holika, the devil made from the cakes of

23
cow dung. During the eve of Holi, specifically at or after sunset, the pyre is lit, signifying Holika
Dahan as the victory of good over evil. People sing and dance around the fire. The next day
people play Holi, the famous festival of colors with color pigments, food, party drinks, and
festive seasonal foods such as 'gujiya,' 'mathri,' 'malpuas,' and other delicacies (Marwadisamaaj,
n.d.).

Holi is followed by 'Sheetla Ashtami' after seven days. 'Sheetla Mata' is commonly called the
Goddess of smallpox. She holds a pot, soup, broom ad neem leaves riding a donkey. This festival
is known as 'Basede.' 'Prasad' is made a day before (i.e., Monday) and is taken cold (Tuesday). It
is also a seasonal festival starting with a bath with cold water instead of hot water. The sweets
offered to the Goddess made of wheat flour and jaggery (Gulgulle, Atte Ka Halwa, and meethi
pooris) (Marwadisamaaj, n.d.).

They also celebrate 'Maha Shivratri' on the Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi of Hindu calendar month
Magha, which keel in February or March as per the Gregorian calendar marking the convergence
of Shiva and Shakti. Offerings of 'Bael' celebrate the festival, or golden apple leaves to Lord
Shiva, all-day fasting, and an all-night-long vigil (jagarana). All through the day, devotees chant
"Om Namah Shivaya," a sacred Panchakshara mantra dedicated to Lord Shiva. Under scriptural
and discipleship traditions, penances are performed to gain boons in the practice of Yoga and
meditation to reach life's highest good steadily and swiftly (Marwadisamaaj, n.d.).

Married Marwaris women perform Karwa Chauth, a fast by offering prayers seeking the welfare,
prosperity, well-being, and longevity of their husbands. A married woman who observes this
'vrat' is called 'Saubhagyavati' (joyous and happy state of wifehood). As the name signifies,
'Karva' meaning a clay pot, and 'Chauth' is the fourth day in the month of Kartik after the full
moon as per the Hindu calendar. Women wear designer sari/ lehenga with jewelry and dress like
brides. They only survive on the water, eating only fruits and vegetables, eating only one meal a
day depending upon their health and practices. Traditionally, the fast done without even drinking
a sip of water valued (Marwadisamaaj, n.d.).

2.1.8.6 Food
Marwaris food is known for its various spices and its sweetness. Most of their dishes made in
ghee are famous. Typically, Marwaris are vegetarian and only have vegetarian dishes in their
24
cuisine. The most famous is 'dalbati,' a recipe comprising dal and wheat flour kneading with
yogurt and dressed in ghee. 'Bajra ki roti,' one more world-famous dish, bread or chapattis
prepared through the cereals of bajra and chutney made with garlic or any other spices. It is also
famous for 'kachori,' the 'pyaaz' or onion kachori, and the 'mawa' kachori. The most common
daily Marwari food is 'Papad ki sabzi,' a recipe made through roasted ‘papads’ (Indian chips) due
to the lack of water and roasted papads used in making curry. 'Ghewar' and 'gheriya' are some
delectable sweet dishes originating from Mewar, prepared with ghee and mawa with the topping
of almonds above (Cultural India, n.d.). 

2.1.8.7 Business as their identity

 Marwaris believed to own a dynamic, indigenous, and entrepreneurial group, but they are
commonly known as shopkeepers around the corner. They are the moneylender who charges
interest and invest in other possibilities to gain more profit. The Marwaris, who require money,
always borrows from another Marwari concerning the loan is paid on request, "even at
midnight," and he would reciprocate with a similar investment. The interest settles at the end of
the year. He could count on community banks to ensure his goods in transit and collect his dues
when the goods arrived. His sons and nephews' trainees under other Marwari traders could learn
business expertise, earn a salary by profit-sharing, and accumulated capital to start their own
business when they were ready. Marwaris being socially conservative might help to explain their
success (Kudaisya, 2003).

However, they continue to be more religious and traditional to have a more excellent hold.
Despite professional executives running the business, mostly, they are from their community.
Their strength lies in the way they use old family networks and traditional accounting and
financial controls. Indeed, Marwaris have traditionally not accorded a high place to making
money. Marwaris has made significant contributions to the development of the Indian as well as
the Nepalese economy. It narrates the rise and expansion of the Marwari family, whose origins
lie in Rajasthan's small village where the family was engaged in lending seed to the farmers. It is
unique in explaining the inner working of the Marwari family. Usually, men are responsible for
maintaining relations in a family. The connection between brothers in a joint family is mostly

25
managed but can be broken sometimes. The attitude to charity, education, women, and workers
is explained (Kudaisya, 2003).

2.1.9 Migration Theory

Migration plays an essential role in the life of an individual, community, society, and nation. It
affects both the place of origin as well as the place of destination. People are always active and
like to move towards development. By remaining static, the whole idea of migration seems to
come to hold. Migration has a significant impact on individuals' age, sex, race, culture, ethnicity,
religion, social, and political aspects. It also does not leave the economic sector untouched.
Migration always has a more significant impact on economic development or declination.

Most importantly, migration has a vast influence on the social and cultural aspects of life. With
global development, it has become feasible for people to connect with other people from one part
of the world. It has led to the recognition of several nations, languages, cultures, traditions, and
religions. Such diversity improves human knowledge towards their society.

2.1.9.1 Migration of Marwaris

"The Marwaris story is mesmerizing as the small community from the desert sands of Rajasthan
expanded to the whole India, settling in thousands of villages and towns in the 19th century"
(Kudaisya, 2003). The Marwaris migrated from Rajputana due to geo-socio, economic and
political factors. They journeyed on foot in groups for greener pastures of livelihood with small
bundles and the 'lota-dor' as their only luggage. During the initial stage of migration, there were
hardly any means of communication or boarding arrangements and lodging on the way. Besides,
the Marwaris had little knowledge of the language and culture of the places they migrated to
(Taknet, 2016).

Marwaris controlled the inland trade with their enormous appetite for risk gradually turning to
industry. It was all possible because of the excellent support system from the family. The wife
and children caring is possible in a joint family at home while a Marwari traveled on business.
Marwaris found shelter and food in 'basa,' a sort of collective hostel run on a co-operative basis

26
or as philanthropy by local Marwari merchants wherever he went in search of trade (Kudaisya,
2003).

2.1.9.2 Factors Leading to Marwaris Migration in Nepal

Migration is the act of moving from the place of origin to the place of destination. Here,
Marwaris's origin is Rajasthan, India, and the destination place in Kathmandu, Nepal. There are
multiple reasons for Marwari's migration to Nepal. Firstly, Rajasthan is desert land with barren,
sandy, and stony soil. The weather is harsh, with only scanty rainfall, which makes the
vegetation impossible to grow. Thus, people started moving towards searching for better
livelihood, commercial agriculture, trade, and industry. In the course of migration, they found
Nepal that has a favorable climate and topography to offer. It allures many people worldwide,
including Marwaris. They quickly migrated to Nepal because it shares an open border with India.
Their migration to Nepal initially aimed to expand and develop its business in the Nepalese
market, especially tea trading and jute trading. However, with the development of transportations
and communications, Marwaris flourished their business in different sectors.

Secondly, Marwari's migration was influenced by kinship, caste, and religious system. Once the
migrants were established, they offered help to other people belonging to their caste, community,
and religion. They would make arrangements for food, lodging, and even temporary jobs. It
helped and attracted many migrants to Nepal.

Thirdly, Nepal, and India have many similarities when it comes to religious and cultural
backgrounds. From the religious perspective, Marwaris celebrate and practice their traditional
and religious events with family and their close friends. Hence, they found it comfortable and
easily adapted to the Nepalese environment. The Marwari community is famous for its unique
religious practices in Nepal. For Nepalese, Marwaris are considered very religious, and they
respect it. Marwaris’ food is one of the most beautiful and fascinating things liked by most of the
Nepalese. Marwaris organized events and programs where their language, dresses, food, music,
and dance got recognition.

27
2.1.9.3 Challenges of Marwaris Migration

The migration was not easy and straightforward as it seems now because there were many
barriers, such as language, political conditions, and social inclusion. Since the beginning of
Marwaris migration from Rajasthan to other parts of India, they have faced many challenges
until they reached and settled in Nepal. The first and foremost demanding thing was language.
Without the local language, it was difficult for Marwaris to communicate with their clients and
do business with them. Hence, they have to learn the local language wherever they migrated.

Another burden for Marwaris during migration was the political and social settings of the
country. The political instability directly affected the market. Although the social capital was
raised with a mutual connection through caste, clan, and region between Marwaris themselves,
the capital investment was risky. Likewise, certain groups and communities' social conflicts also
affected the business market of that particular area. It led to a risky involvement in the business.

Likewise, the change in weather also had some health impact on Marwaris. They are used to hot
climates and scanty rainfalls. The sudden change in the weather and food opt for the family's
necessity with the individual migrating. The most challenging thing was migrating with the
family as the Marwari family is usually a joint family with more than ten members. The
necessary health facilities were challenging to manage for everyone in a new place.

Also, adapting to the new environment and being accepted by the migrated place, locals’ was
another tough thing for Marwaris. Some people were accepting, and some were rejecting. In the
context of Nepal, Marwaris did not face much difficulty in the settlement. When Marwaris
migrated to Nepal, they knew the migration process, the local language, and the business market.
The attitude of Nepalese towards Marwaris was welcoming and cheerful. Marwaris's migration
to Nepal opened many doors to flourish the Nepalese market in tea, jute, and other industries.

2.1.10 Gender theory

There are socially constructed roles for men and women, implying different social norms and
cultural expectations, referring to the biological differences in gender (Cleaver, 2002). These
norms and expectations are reproduced through early socialization and institutions within
society. The gender roles function as scripts for the individual and continue developing in

28
interaction with and understanding cultural scenarios. Through this on-going socialization, the
individual internalizes norms and values preferred in the society and establishes an identity that
is continuously adjusted and regulated according to feedback and sanctions from other
inhabitants. This personal understanding of culturally defined roles helps us understand the
context of social change (Cohler & Smith, 2006). There are some similarities in cultural norms
for each ethnic group member. There are within-group differences regarding gender and nature
of the relationship (Colier & Thomas).

2.1.10.1 Hinduism and Gender

According to Sherma (2000), "Goddess worship does not necessarily entail that women
themselves are reversed or have an equitable position in society. Nonetheless 'the ubiquitous
presence of female deity has coloured the notion of Hindu womanhood in subtle ways" as cited
in (Jacobs, Hindu Dharma in the Contemporary World: Caste, Gender and Political Hinduism,
2010, p. 72). Hinduism believe in the inclusion of both male and female to build a society. There
are both male and female Gods and Goddesses associated with the role an individual plays in the
community. There is no difference in the devotion towards male or female Gods. However, there
are different notions to define the role of women presented through various goddesses.

There are two different ways of trying to comprehend the various different goddesses. The
first typology suggests that there are three types of goddesses: goddesses that are
subservient consorts to male deities; goddesses that are equal to or dominate a male deity;
and independent goddesses. (Jacobs, Hinduism: The Basics, 2010, pp. 25-26)

Hinduism has defined the role of women according to the male’s definition of them. Even the
role and characteristics of goddesses are different and limited in comparison to male gods. For
some people, goddesses hold the supreme power and authority to create and destroy the universe.
For instance, Durga killing the Mahisashur, the devil. It is also why mothers are given much
respect in the Hindu and specifically the Marwari community. They believe that women have the
power to nurture an individual or a family. Also, when needed, they can make tough decisions
for the betterment of the family and community.

Likewise, few think that the female goddess is equal to male gods. It is present in the figure of
‘Ardhanarishwar,’ meaning half man and half woman. It also signifies the fact that both male-
29
female is vital for running society. Thus, marriage is given unique importance, amongst other
rites of passage. There are enjoyment and grand celebration during weddings. People spend
much money on carrying out the rituals for marriage. Hindu marriages, or in other words,
Marwari marriages, are considered one of the luxurious events. The couple is treated with such
generosity thinking that they are responsible for the future.

In contrast, few people believe that goddesses are inferior to male gods. It is clearly portrayed in
the figure of Lakshmi sitting at the feet of Lord Vishnu. She is depicted to serve her husband,
and like her, many Hindu women, especially, Marwari women, tend to follow this practice and
obey their husbands. The husbands’ have the authority to make decisions for their wives in
Marwari culture. A rebellious woman is considered as a wrong person in society. Women's role
is confined to being submissive, soft, caring, and obeying her husband and family.

Hinduism is generally confined to a patriarchal reflection of the society despite preaching

religious tolerance and equality. It is visible in the mythological and historical books. For
example, both "Sita" in the Ramayana and "Draupadi" in the Mahabharata figure as devoted
wives to their husbands, yet their actions, when wronged by their husbands, challenge
conventional patriarchal notions of wifely behavior (Arni, 2011).

Women are not given equal opportunity to involve and practice any religious activities during
their menstrual period as it denotes impurity in Hinduism. Moreover, there are almost no female
priests appointed in the temples because of this reason. This conservative thought towards
women is limiting their roles in just practicing rituals in their individual's home.

There are religious laws known as "Dharmashastras" to understand and implement to position
women in society and treat and place them. Not only in texts, but the religion itself has also
differentiated specific roles for males and females in caste, class, and geographical surroundings.
Hinduism always treated women need support from men and hence established some
malpractices such as early marriage, "sati," self-immolation of the widow on the funeral pyre of
her husband, remarriage for widow and women owning the property. In contrast, men could
make remarriage whether the wife is still alive or dead (Cierpial, 2015).

The term rights and equality are quite controversial for Hinduism and Marwari culture because
society is wholly based upon the hierarchical structure. There are assigned duties "Dharma" that

30
all in the family or community must carry out as "Karma" according to their age, gender, and
position. For instance, respect for seniors.

Likewise, keeping women away from the priestly tradition is common since men regarded them
as impure during their menstruation period. However, specific narrative themes emphasize
analyzing the interpretation of the lives of female Hindu' sadhus'. There are three life story
themes embedded in the female' sadhus,' which are duty (kartavya), destiny (bhagya), and
devotion (bhakti). Through these themes' oral performance, the sadhus express a gendered
discourse on female agency in renunciation. Similarly, they promote a perception of difference,
neutralize widespread societal views of female asceticism. It appears as transgressive and
validates their identity as female sadhus in what is considered to be a male-dominated tradition
of renunciation.

While Rajasthani (Marwari) female sadhus invoked these themes to resist personal agency's
notion in their becoming sadhus, these narrative strategies function as rhetorical disclaimers.
There is an alternative female tradition of religious asceticism. It is compared to the dominant
male tradition of Brahmanical asceticism. Drawing on models of regional female bhakti saints
and a more generalized bhakti discourse (DeNapoli, 2009).

2.1.10.2 Jainism and Gender 

Jainism's religious discourses all share universal prejudices against women, who are viewed as
temptresses and symbols of attachment, fickleness, and treacherousness. Acts of deception are
considered a woman's main characteristic, to the extent that deceitfulness explains sex-
differentiation. It results in manifesting deception of a man in this world is becoming a woman,
whereas for women, if the heart is pure, she becomes a man. 
There are two sects of Digambaras and Svetambaras, which defines the role of women
differently. Digambaras believe in nudity to obtain liberation, which is difficult for women; thus,
Svetambaras hold the maximum numbers of female participants. Jainism has space for both
males and females in their designated roles, such as the nuns and monks. From a religious
perspective, women's roles in worshiping and celebrating seem more prominent than men.
Likewise, their role in maintaining, caring, and nurturing the children and family makes it
obliged for women to hold a different and less powerful position. Female mendicants do not have

31
authority over males while going on preaching. However, equality among men and women is
balanced. They follow ahimsa (no injury to any living being), help each other, work for
humanity, protecting the environment, and so on (Balbir, 2018). 
In worship, mythical female figures, connected with grammatically feminine concepts, occupy a
central place. Iconography testifies to an ancient cult rendered to the mothers of the Jinas, and
especially to Marudevi, the mother of the First One. She is the first emancipated soul. It applies
to the Goddess Sarasvatī as well. However, the Jain tradition's primary feminine deities are the
female attendants (Yakṣiṇis) attached to the main Jinas. Among them, 'Cakreśvari,' 'Padmāvati,'
and 'Ambika' have gradually become independent figures and occupy a prominent place invoked
by the devotees looking for the shielding events of the everyday living. Female deities remain
close to humanity as compared to the Jinas appearing as distant spiritual ideals. (Yakṣas).
Concerning the creation, gender is not an issue in the creation of a female order. The community
structured by Mahāvīra, the main expounder of the doctrine, is fourfold, including women as two
of its components: laywomen and nuns, beside laypeople and monks. It recognizes by all Jains,
whether Svetambara or Digambaras. The monastic tasks are gender-based, reproducing the
distribution of domestic chores such as cooking and sewing. However, the fact remains
prominent, stating "religion accounts creative and conservative forces in lives of young Jain
women's" (Vallely, 2002, pp. 21, 215.). Also, the concepts about women refraining from manner
favorable to female renunciation in Jainism is "the value of honor is a one-way concept. It
encouraged women to accept the Jain tradition with their secure connection between them and
renouncers (Fohr, 2001, p. 1). 
The roles are oriented toward preparing food and performing rituals, for which the men are
entirely dependent on Jain women. The practices of specific dietary rules are one of the most
transparent means to ensure sectarian identity. The various roles ascribed to women at home are
functioning as a guardian and modifier of the tradition. She is responsible for offering alms to the
begging Jain mendicants who come at her door, which implies that she masters a minute
sequence of actions and rules. She is also the one who prepares the meals for the family and
decides whether a practice like the one that forbids eating after sunset observed or not. She
knows which type of food must be cooked depending on the day (i.e., festival, ordinary). Finally,
the woman is also the one who has full command of the complicated calendar and typology of
fasts that regulate the Jains' lives. Fasting is the true women's penance and a way for them to gain
32
a high religiosity reputation. Reproduction of the community is in their hands by handling
marriages and imparting basic teachings to young generations. 
 
2.1.10.3 Comparing Religion and Gender in Marwari culture
Women are tagged as the devotee of God in Hinduism, whereas the women in Jainism are the
teachers. Jainism is as liberal to women as Hinduism. Jainism provided a more comprehensive
range for women equal to men than women in Hindu Marwari culture. There is no self-identity
for the Hindu women as they are often related as the male's wife, daughter, or sister. Thus, this is
also the main reason for Jainism's idea of identity in the Marwari culture.
Similarly, both religions believe in patronage and religious endowments, which ties and relates a
strong bond. Women are assigned to look after the family and maintain social status in society. A
rebellious woman is not a good woman in both religions. However, Jain women are far more
active in establishing their identity and maintaining their good woman behavior. A combination
of freedom, but having its roots intact, results from these religions (Jaini, 1991). 
Under their universal feminine nature, women are, in some contexts, regarded as
extraordinary manifestations of the Goddess, sharing in her powers. Thus, the Goddess is
a mythical figure for women following Hinduism. However, scholars and feminists
disagree about the Hindu Goddess's existence in benefitting women's status in Indian
society. The relationship between Indian (Hindu including Buddhist and Jain) Goddesses
and women is complicated, leading to contradictory answers, depending upon how the
question frames and who is doing the asking–and answering (Erndl & Hiltebeitel, 2000,
p. 11).
It has explored the relationship between women and Goddesses and the relationship's potential
for empowerment. Because of these Hindu traditions,' women have been able to access
extraordinary religious power and status. In some instances, women have been thought of to be
or channel the Goddess herself. Nevertheless, while women are considered to hold this power,
men have the ultimate control and authority in Indian and Nepalese society. 
The Brahmanical tradition views sexuality as a form of Shakti. Still, the wild feeling of sexual
desires is viewed as dangerous and inappropriate for women. These desires could lead a woman
to engage in sex outside of socially- sanctioned situations. Therefore, marriage is considered a
way of controlling and directing a woman's Shakti by controlling her sexuality. All women are
33
born as Shakti's embodiment, but it can increase or decrease depending on the particular deed.
Women's sexuality and power is the productive and auspicious expression of Shakti when
marriage leads to motherhood. This expectation has resulted in a prominent cultural association
of ideal Marwari womanhood linking with motherhood in marriage.

34
3 CHAPTER-3

Research Methodology

3.1.1 Introduction
"Research is a scholarly, scientific, and systematic investigation to established facts or principles,
or to collect information on a subject to be presented in a detailed and accurate manner" (Habib,
Pathik, & Maryam, 2014, p. 3). It is the collection and interpretation of data attempting to
resolve a problem. It involves the most detailed and thorough study of a problem to gain
information to reach its solution (Habib, Pathik, & Maryam, 2014, p. 3). The methodology
means to show how the research questions asking is done in the field. It is the "reasons
underlying the choice and use of specific methods in the research process" (Kuada, 2012). This
chapter deals with the research design and research methodology. It presents the step-by-step
process about how the study was conducted and how the research problem was addressed. It
shows the research area, selection of informants, data collection method and its analyzing tools,
and the research ethics regarding the theoretical aspects. This thesis incorporates a qualitative
research method. It is the best method that suits this research material and the purpose of the
study. The research follows a simplified procedure with commonly used statistical tools for
analysis.
Further, the required information about the research problem can be easily tackled using the
qualitative research method. It provides a platform for researchers to go back and forth as per the
situation demands. This chapter hence provides information about research design, sources of
data, interviews, and questionnaires.
This thesis shows the mixture of Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari culture. Hindu Marwari is
adopting Jain beliefs along with their Hindu rituals; a qualitative research approach is analyzed.
Qualitative methods seek to explore social phenomena according to the meaning people bring to
them (Taylor & Greenhalgh). The thesis aims to understand and document the world seen from
the informants' point of view. The qualitative method is best suited for understanding the
Marwari people as members of the Kathmandu Valley social system and how they change
(modify) their culture with the response to different beliefs and practices they receive from
Jainism at a specified period. The primary form of data collection method used in this thesis is
35
semi-structured interviews. Their real names have been replaced with fictive names to secure the
data and respect the informants' views and ideas on the concerned issues.

3.1.2 Significance of Research

Research plays a vital role in social sciences as it helps to find out both the known and unknown
information about any topic. It must have an aim which requires much planning. The research
structure should be systematic and organized so that the correct and necessary information can be
extracted. There are five steps in which research is completed. Firstly, the formulation of the
problem is the essential one. It helps in narrowing down the research focus area. Secondly, a
research design must be formulated for collecting and analyzing the data. Thirdly, the collection
of data is crucial as it holds the main essence of the research. Fourthly, after collecting the data,
it is essential to analyze it. The processing of the data helps in achieving the outcome of the
research problem. Lastly, the summary and conclusion help complete the research (Habib,
Pathik, & Maryam, 2014, p. 15).
The dual practice of Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari culture is one of the exciting topics in the
social research area. This research aims better to understand the religious practices in the
Marwari community. The only purpose of this study is to make a clear view of the Hindu and
Jain practices by Marwaris. It also seeks to maintain peace and harmony among them and to
avoid any possible chaos.

3.1.3 Research Design

The plan and strategy used to collect and analyze the data effectively addressing the research
problem can be understood as a research design.
A research design is a map which identifies the means and methods to be pursued for
collecting and analyzing the data. It can also be defined as the systematic procedure
which includes the designing, compiling, and analyzing of information through the
conceptual model, variables, and construction of the questionnaire. (Habib, Pathik, &
Maryam, 2014, p. 16)
The research design reflects the priorities, determine the required data needed, and the process of
collecting and analyzing data. Research design helps make decisions regarding where to carry

36
out research and whom to focus on (Bechhofer & Paterson, 2000, p. 43). "It is the link between
the research issues, the theories, the methods, and the results of the project" (Kuada, 2012).
In this regard, I have chosen a qualitative research method as the research design. As this thesis
is concerned about knowing Hinduism and Jainism's practices in the Marwaris culture,
qualitative research helps understand its objectives better. Semi-structured interview preparation
done while doing this qualitative research. Semi-structured interviews give room for the
interviewees to present their idea and understanding of the given topic. Thus, it was easy for me
to have a good conversation with my Marwari interviewees as they were free to give their idea
upon their understanding of the practices of Hinduism and Jainism in their culture. The
questionnaire also set for the study to be specific, and the data would be precise and to the point.
The interviews and observation include attending a few marriages, weaning ceremonies, and
festivals.

3.1.3.1 Qualitative Research Method

The research method that uses informal communication to retrieve data and information is
known as the qualitative research method. It is concerned with the person’s self experiences with
the related topic. "It is the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data by observing what
people do and say. It refers to the meaning, concepts, definition, characteristics, metaphors,
symbols, and descriptions of things" (Habib, Pathik, & Maryam, 2014, p. 9). The focus of
collecting data in this method is observation, interviews, questionnaires, and field study. It does
not rely on numerical data for the information. This research method has helped this thesis to
procreate a deeper understanding and behaviors of Marwaris people in practicing the dual
religion, Hinduism, and Jainism in their culture. It stresses why and how the Marwaris mix up
religions in culture. Likewise, it also emphasized the ways they use to do so. However,
quantitative research is equally important and could be relevant to this research. However, I have
chosen qualitative research to understand better Marwaris in their ideas, perception, and behavior
regarding their dual religious practices. It also helps find the similarities and differences in the
dual practice of Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari culture, as this thesis deals in knowing how
they interact concerning the same religious practices.

37
3.1.4 Data Collection Method
The data collection method collects and analyzes information from the specified sources to
address the research problem. In the qualitative research method, the data collection method is
processed through surveys, questionnaires, interviews, focus groups, and observation. Therefore,
I have chosen the interview as the data collection method to understand the dual practices of
Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari culture. Before conducting interviews, I focused on my
interviewees' background information and prepared questions according to it. I explained to them
about myself and the study to better understand the given topic and respond accordingly. I also
managed to communicate with my interviewees in their language and participate in their events.
It helped me extract the required information regarding their perspectives on the dual practice of
Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari culture in a better way.

3.1.4.1 Data Source

Data are the raw information regarding specific issues that are essential for carrying out the
research work. The main sources for data collection are primary data. These are the type of data
which is sourced directly from the respondents. The primary method for collecting data records
interviews with selected individuals of the Marwari community in Kathmandu valley of Nepal.
Semi-structured interviews include women, priests, students, laymen, and people in the business
out of forty-five interviews taken among thirty-six different Marwari people living in
Kathmandu.
I. Primary Data: It collects through a self-administered and recorded interview. A relevant
questionnaire is prepared and asked the respondents. The respondents are the individuals
(women, priests, students, laymen, and businesspeople) belonging to the Marwari community.
Reliable and valid information is collected; relevant questions are prepared and asked in the
interview.
II. Secondary Data: The study has also used several secondary data while collecting the
required information. Secondary data sources included books, newspapers, magazines, journals,
data from government and non-governmental sources, internet searches, and articles. It helps to
identify how others have identified and measured key concepts, their findings, and the data
sources they have used. These sources also helped discover the relevant information and reveal
how it is related to other studies.
38
3.1.4.2 Site selection and description
The choice of individual, group, place, or time is vital in sketching an outline for any research.
This study uses the interview method. Interviews were conducted by inviting the informants to
elaborate on the topic as they want. A semi-structured interview is suitable for allowing
adjustments to the interview guide. The semi-structural interview is like an everyday
conversation but has a structure that makes sure that the appropriate topic and themes are
covered. I went to Nepal twice in a gap of a few months to do my empirical fieldwork. There, I
have gotten to know many people. I have done thirty-six, semi-structured, qualitative interviews
of the practices of Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari culture in Kathmandu, Nepal, with the
majority coming from Rajasthan. I have my family in Nepal, but I will not include their names
for safety reasons as they helped me find my informants.
Coming from a Marwari family, I knew many Hindu-Jain Marwaris and their stories in religion's
duo practice. Because of this, I was able to choose a variety of people for me to talk to. I
interviewed males and females aging from twenty to sixty. Few were in their homes, some in my
home, and some in the temples, restaurants, and offices. Due to privacy and safety reasons, I
have anonymized my interviewees' names and their surnames. I have wanted to hear more about
these fusion stories of Hinduism and Jainism by talking with the inter-religious people
themselves. Many people I interviewed were from families with backgrounds of the middle
class, but I also got to talk with a few wealthy people from the high class. Most of my informants
lived in the same area in the city of Kathmandu. The variety of age, gender, social belonging,
and wealth is a strength for my material and fieldwork. I got to see and hear many different
reasons for mixture and my informants' lives before and after their mixture. I have chosen to do
in-depth research and delineate my thesis by choosing thirty-six people who show various
gender, age, social belonging, Hindu and Jain practice, experiences. However, a similarity was
them telling me their story of what led to Marwaris's decision on the duo Hindu and Jain
religions' practice. My fieldwork strength is the language because my interviewees spoke
Marwari, and I do not need a translator to translate it by myself. A possible error source could be
not presenting their feelings precisely while using English for Marwari words. The translating
process improved from the first interview to the last one and became more accurate.

39
All in all, I believe what I heard is very close to what the interviewees said because I was there
and saw their reactions and feelings while telling me their stories. The experiences from the
interviewees are the goal for my fieldwork. It also includes changes in their lives and for them to
talk openly with me.

3.1.5 Qualitative Interviews

"The interview is an interactional process, an encounter, with three major characteristics. First, it
has shared interactional rules. Second, it is generally carried out between strangers. And third, it
is frequently a one-off affairs" (Bechhofer & Paterson, 2000, p. 69). It has a significant role to
play in the course of qualitative research.
The qualitative research interview focuses on learning about a topic from the informant's
perspective and how their world experience is independent of scientific theories. Qualitative
interviews can go more in-depth rather than skim the surface (Taylor & Greenhalgh). Qualitative
interviews are essential in this thesis as its primary concern is to know the practices of Hinduism
and Jainism in Marwari culture. This phenomenon, based on the opinion of the informant, has
attributed to it. It has also allowed and encouraged complexity, contradictions, and ambivalence
expressed in an interview carried through face to face conversations.

3.1.5.1 Semi-structured Interviews

In social sciences, a semi-structured interview is regarded as one of the required methods of
research. It is an effective method of data collection whereby the researcher is looking to collect
open-ended data. It provides a base for having two-way conversations between the interviewer
and interviewee and exploring the participants' thoughts, feelings, and beliefs regarding a
specific topic. It is useful while dealing with personal and sensitive topics as both the researcher
and informant are free to involve in an informal discussion of the questions asked. A semi-
structured interview is the most suitable method for this thesis. It helped me know and
understand the perceptions, experiences, religious and cultural practices of Hinduism and
Jainism in Marwari culture. In other words, it has brought out the necessary information from the
interviewees without causing any harm and damage to them.

40
3.1.5.2 Interview Guide
The interview guide is a road map for conducting interviews by preparing the concerned field
study and interviewees in the given research area. It is a method to collect data and is usually
done beforehand so that the interview can be carried out smoothly. The interview guide is
prepared to keep in mind the expectations of the interviewer from its interviewees. The
respondents' expectations regarding their knowledge, belief, feeling, and opinions that directly
affect the data must be taken care of while preparing the interview guide. My interview guide
consists of several open questions with follow-up questions. The questions start with me asking
them about their personal information such as age, sex, occupation, etc. I further asked them to
tell me their religious background stories, primarily how they practice both Hinduism and
Jainism or both in their Marwari culture. Besides, I also query about what they have experienced
of religious changes, difficulties, social improvements. Being a Hindu or Jain involved questions
about the caste system and spiritual experiences. The reasons for using open questions were to
hear what the interviewees chose to emphasize and focus on when answering and, in this way, let
them be the ones to decide what is essential. Letting them speak and tell me stories made it more
comfortable to ask my follow-up questions if necessary. For me, the critical aspect was to hear
my interviewees' stories and do an in-depth study of their answers. The goal was not to answer
how many, but the why – why is it like this? I am interested in the reasons behind their action to
convert, and I have chosen the semi-structured interview as my way of conducting interviews in
my fieldwork (see attachment 8.2, p.91-93 for my interview guide).

3.1.5.3 Questionnaires
The use of questionnaires in the research design is crucial. Firstly, it helps in the efficient
management of time for the interview. Secondly, the questions prepared will have a standard and
transparent meaning, making the interview as smooth as possible. Finally, they are perfect for
describing statistical descriptions and factual matters (Bechhofer & Paterson, 2000, pp. 74-75).
The interview guide helped me prepare questions to ask my informants to dig out the thesis's
information. For conducting the interviews smoothly and receive information efficiently, I
arranged twenty questions. The questions are prepared as open-ended questionnaires. It means
that the respondents must describe his/her answer. There are no specific choices of answers
41
provided for them. The qualitative aspects in the given research is extracted through the
responses from open-ended questionnaires. It also generates ideas and opinions regarding the
respondents (Habib, Pathik, & Maryam, 2014, p. 18). These questions included their personal
information regarding the religious cohesion of Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari culture. The
questionnaires are mentioned below.
1. Can you introduce yourself? Please mention your age, sex, and occupation.
2. How and why long have you been living in Kathmandu, Nepal?
3. Can you tell me about your religion and culture?
4. As a Marwari, what religious practices you do, and why?
5. Do you believe in the caste system in Marwari culture?
6. Is going to the temple and doing Puja is essential for you as Marwaris?
7. Do you think Marwaris are religious or social?
8. How do you categorize yourself amongst other Marwaris?
9. As an immigrant from Rajasthan, India, how do you find Kathmandu in terms of
Marwaris religion and culture?
10. What is your say about religion in Marwari culture? Is it Hindu or Jain or both?
11. Do you know about the Hindu-Jain Marwaris?
12. How do you understand a Hindu-Jain Marwari? Is there any existence as such?
13. How do you see each other (Hindu or Jain) related to culture?
14. Do you believe in the practice of the Hindu-Jain Marwari system? If yes, why?
15. What similarities do you notice between Hindu and Jain concerning their practices of the
Marwari customs?
16. What differences do you notice between Hindu and Jain about their practices of the
Marwari customs?
17. How do you perceive the synchronicity of Hindu-Jain Marwari culture?
18. Is Hindu-Jain practice an identity marker for the Marwaris? If yes, why?
19. What is the importance of women in Hindu-Jain Marwari culture?
20. What is the importance of business for Marwaris?
Thank you for the information!

Preparing questions for interviews regarding any group and community requires a lot of
background information. To make this interview successful, I learned a lot about the Marwari
community, culture, and religion. Being a Marwari myself, it was relatively easy for me to
understand their language, gesture, and sentiments during the interview. Nevertheless, I did not
mix my emotions with their reactions and responses. I also tried to be careful regarding the
issues which they might find criticizing or offending.

42
3.1.5.4 Pre-understanding and pre-knowledge
Before proceeding to the interviews, it is crucial to clarify prejudices and pre-understanding
(Neumann & Neumann, 2012). To prepare for the interviews, I have read general literature on
Marwaris with Hinduism and Jainism. I also talked with Marwaris living in Kathmandu Valley
of Nepal and their impressions of religion in their culture. I reflect on my background: I am a
Marwari and had lived in Kathmandu until I came to Norway.

3.1.5.5 Informants’ Details

The informants' personal information is a primary source of data representing from whom the
information is coming. It also helps to understand better the responses as the age group, gender,
profession, and academic level are the main criteria for an individual’s perception towards
anything. The informants I selected for this research are either Hindu or Jain, considering their
religion. Likewise, they are from the age group between twenty to sixty, representing both the
youth and adults. Also, the educational qualification and social status are the criteria to determine
their opinions of Hinduism and Jainism practices in a Marwari culture. It is presented in the table
below.
Hindus and Jains Marwaris in Kathmandu
Gender Age (in years) Religion Number of
Male Female 20-30 30-40 40-50 50-60 Hindu Jain
Status Interviews
Kishan YES YES
Ram YES YES
Manya YES YES
Priests Rekha YES YES 10
Gajendra YES YES
Ajay YES YES
Prabin YES YES
Pradip YES YES
Kunal YES YES
Paras YES YES
Bikash YES YES
Prem YES YES
Business Rukesh YES YES
Mohit YES YES 15
Owners Sarita YES YES
Ishika YES YES
Sanita YES YES
Manila YES YES
Home Rupi YES YES
Makers Poonam YES YES 10
Riya YES YES

43
 Neha YES YES
Priyanshu YES YES
Dikshya YES YES
Arjun YES YES
Sabin YES YES 7
Students Enika YES YES
Sanjay YES YES
Divyesh YES YES
Pankaj YES YES
Sujit YES YES
Rinkey YES YES
Raju YES YES
Lay- Dhiraj YES YES
Puja YES YES 13
Person
Amar YES YES
Sum 22 14 10 10 10 6 21 15 45
Total 36 36 36 45
Table 1 showing the number of interviews with gender and age of Hindus and Jains Marwari
interviewees living in Kathmandu.
Regarding the education level, all the interviewees may not have attended school or may have
some degree. Regarding their status, some are working, some are priests and students, and some
are housewives. In total, thirty-six individuals interviewed. Among them, twenty- two are males
and fourteen are females, out of which six are priests, ten business personnel, five homemakers,
seven students, and eight laypeople. The age group of the interviewees is from twenty to sixty.
There are ten people between the age groups twenty to thirty, thirty to forty and forty to fifty,
whereas six are fifty to sixty. Specifically, there were forty-five interviews held among twenty-
one Hindu and fifteen Jains Marwaris in Kathmandu. Even if all the informants are Hindus and
Jains Marwaris, their practice is quite different on many occasions. Furthermore, home-makers
are more involved in religious activities, but working or students are less involved.

3.1.6 Sample method

The method of selecting the representative group from the population is known as sampling. It
helps the researcher to have a deeper understanding of the given topic in the research area.
Amongst many sample techniques, snowball sampling is the most appropriate form of sampling
required for this research. It is because it leads to discovering the unknown characteristics of the
population by selecting a few. This technique uses a wide range of procedures, such as the initial
respondents are selected by probability method. Likewise, additional respondents are taken from
the initial respondents’ (Habib, Pathik, & Maryam, 2014, p. 32).
44
In this thesis, only the respondents can help and contribute to finding the fusion and practices of
Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari culture. The focused group for sampling is the Marwaris
living in the Kathmandu valley of Nepal. Being a Marwari myself helped me select the
informants as I knew them and could speak in their native language. However, I tried to maintain
the distance between their opinions, perceptions, and responses.

3.1.7 Fieldwork
The gathering of the data and information collected through interviewing and observation for any
research is known as fieldwork. In the qualitative research method, fieldwork plays a vital role in
collecting primary data and information held through various interviews, observation, group
participation, and discussions. It is a process that helps the researcher to examine the scientific
theories with real life.
The fieldworker must aim to obtain access to people and events in a given area, organization, or
community. He/She must study the locale by living, working, and visiting them during the given
time. He/She is responsible is to gather the data and information in the given research field. The
researcher is solely responsible for adequately interviewing using correct language, body
postures, attire, voice tone and so on. The process of fieldwork is compassionate, and thus, the
fieldworker has to be very careful. A detailed plan and strategy must be implemented to
complete the given fieldwork (Bechhofer & Paterson, 2000, p. 91).
The fieldwork procedure began with the approval letter from NSD (Norwegian Centre for
Research), which is a must while doing any research in Norway. For this thesis, the fieldwork is
done in Kathmandu, Nepal, to find out the dual mixture of Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari
culture. There are a total of thirty-six participants for the interviews. While beginning the
interview, I asked my respondents to sign the consent letter, which shows their approval for
participating in this research. I also asked for their details with their email id and social media
accounts, which quickly contacted them. Usually, each interview time was scheduled for sixty
minutes but varied from one participant to the other. Sometimes the interview was even carried
out twice and thrice depending upon the participants' responses to the given questions and their
availability. Most of the interviews were held in the respondents’ homes, and only a few were
done in restaurants and their own offices. It gave them a level of comfort to understand the

45
 questions correctly and give the required answers. Besides the electronic sources, I also used the
manual recording of the given data using a pen and diary.
I had also prepared an interview guide before going for fieldwork. There were altogether twenty
questionnaires that could sum their idea of the dual practices of Hinduism and Jainism in
Marwari culture. Even though this research is done in English, I had to use Nepali and Marwari
to connect and communicate well with the participants. Speaking in their native language made it
clear for them to understand the given research questions and answers better. Thus, the fieldwork
was carried out smoothly and efficiently.

3.1.7.1 Consent
All interviewees were asked to sign the informed consent. There are strict requirements that consent
is sufficiently informed (Malterud, 2015). They have read the leaflet about the consent
themselves, and I have also repeated the main points orally in simple terms. I have attached the
leaflet in my Appendix and (see attachment 8.1, p.87-90 for my information and consent form).
Everyone provided with my email address and local phone number in case they want to
withdraw their say from the interview.

3.1.8 Researcher’s Role

The researcher's role is to gain the participants' thoughts and feelings regarding the given
research topic. The researcher is also responsible for protecting the participants' identity and data
in the interviews conducted. He/she must make appropriate field observations and explain the
study's details to its participants without getting biased.
During the fieldwork, the fieldworker becomes close to its research locale and participants.
Sometimes the friendliness with one participant’ might impact the other regarding his/her
opinion towards the research. Similarly, without being familiar with the participants, the
researcher cannot gain complete trust and might not extract the required data and information.
Hence, the researcher must hold a balance between himself and the participants. He/she must
know the level of attachment needed to fulfill the research study (Bechhofer & Paterson, 2000, p.
98).
Regarding this thesis, I gave my respondents the full information about me, the research topic for
the interview, and the time it might take for the interview. I had to be quite friendly, patient, and
46
 flexible, depending upon the interviewees' necessity and requirements as this thesis dealt with a
sensitive topic of religion. However, being a Marwari myself, I convinced and handled them
smoothly in extracting the information about the dual practice of Hinduism and Jainism in
Marwari culture. I am born, brought up and groomed in Kathmandu, which made it easier to
connect with Kathmandu's Marwaris.
Likewise, I had prepared twenty questions for the interviews. I tried to make it easy, simple, and
straightforward for my respondents to understand it better and gave me accurate answers
regarding the Hindu-Jain mixture in Marwari culture. I also tried not to be biassed towards my
participants or the information provided by them. For this, I had maintained the emotional
distance of intimacy and closeness with them.

3.1.8.1 Content Focused Transcription

I chose to do a free transcription focusing on the content of interviews rather than a word by word
transcription when transcribing (I have both the word by word transcriptions and the content
focused transcriptions available on request). I chose to do a content-focused transcription
because English was hard to understand and make the interview content as straightforward as
possible. I have strived to emphasize the representation of the content as close to what initially
was possible. In a few places, I have written the transcription as it was said initially not to change
the original meaning because I have been unsure what to make of it.

3.1.9 Reliability and Validity in Research

"Reliability is an indicator of a measure’s internal consistency whereas validity refers to the
accuracy of a measure or the extent to which a score truthfully represents a concept" (Habib,
Pathik, & Maryam, 2014, p. 29). Reliability and validity are concerned about evaluating the
quality of research, which is a must in any academic writing. It indicates the quality of the
method and technique used in research. Reliability implies consistency, whereas validity is the
accuracy of the measure used in the qualitative research method.
I have tried to reveal the dual practices of Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari culture who are
residing in Kathmandu, Nepal. It makes the process of reliability and validity a bit difficult
because the ideas, perceptions, and opinions of the individual may change at any given point in

47
 time or due to many situations. However, I have tried to remain consistent and accurate with the
given data collected from the semi-structured interviews.

3.1.10 Research Ethics

The standards of conduct to protect the participants' dignity and rights involved in research are
understood as research ethics. Research ethics are important because they promote the research's
primary aim to support the social and moral values causing no harm and chaos to others. It can
be maintained by honesty, confidentiality, and privacy with the informants. The researcher must
always follow the informed and consent rules with the participants.
As this thesis is about the dual practices of Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari culture living in
Kathmandu, it is essential to know about their cultural and traditional norms and values in the
first place. So, while carrying out this research, I took advice from the experts regarding the
concerned issues. I also gave my respondents’ the voluntary will to participate in the research
and exit whenever they wanted. Being a Marwari myself, I had the advantage of building trust
with them as I know about this culture and speaking in their native language. Thus, the
atmosphere within the interview period and after was peaceful, and the participants were
comfortable speaking on the given topic.
I began my thesis by being aware that research ethics is vital in maintaining my thesis's dignity. I
have tried to maintain honesty, confidentiality and privacy, and credibility with my respondents.
I have replaced their original names with fictional ones for protecting their identity. There is no
access to the collected data besides me, and it will be erased after the completion of this study.

48
4 CHAPTER-IV

Data Presentation

4.1.1 Introduction
Data presentation is the display of the collected information from the field by using the research
questions. It is believed that data is the primary source of any research. The following part of my
thesis includes the collected data about the Marwaris living in Kathmandu, Nepal, as it relies on
Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari culture. There are different headings and subheadings where
the collected data is appropriately placed as per their concerned issues. It presents how Marwaris
behave, practice, and follow the religion and its impact on the fusion of Hinduism and Jainism in
their culture. Further, Hinduism and Jainism, identity, migration, and Gender are presented in the
given data.

4.1.2 Religion as a part of Culture

Religion has a set of beliefs which an individual follows, being in a specific culture or
community. The informants in this thesis are theistic people who believe in such practices from
two different religions but under the one culture. Some people believe in only Hinduism,
whereas some Jainism and, in some cases, both. All the informants believe that religion is more
significant in their daily lives, be it Hindu or Jain Marwaris. They believe that their identity is
built from their culture. The tag of being honest and hard-working business personnel is the
outcome of their traditional values and culture. They regard their religion and culture as the base
for knowing their duties, responsibilities, perceptions, and community dedication. Although few
of my informants are Jains and the other Hindu, they respect each other for being a Marwari.
Likewise, they have much respect for Buddhists and Sikhs and sometimes participate and
participate in their events.
Regarding their religion, which is Hinduism and Jainism, their practices are different in Marwari
culture. There are a few noticeable different ways to follow it. Every interviewee has their way
of understanding their culture and religion. They can present their views regarding Hinduism and
Jainism in Marwari culture in their own words.

49
In the context of understanding the Marwari culture from Hinduism, my respondent, Kishan,
replied:
Re-birth and reincarnation are the central teachings of Hinduism, and I believe in it as its
sincere follower. If we do good, we are blessed with heaven after death, and if we do
something terrible, we are to go to hell. Doing good for others also allows us to re-birth
in human form, whereas evilness can lead to rebirth in different forms. We have many
Gods and Goddesses, which shows the different roles people play in society. Hinduism
teaches us to intake and follow different Gods and Goddesses to learn to live peacefully
and in harmony with others.

Similarly, Sanita presented her view of Hinduism in Marwari culture as:

Hinduism is a unique religion where we perform various rites and rituals depending upon life
events, religious festivals, and cultural traditions. There are different roles and activities
carried out to achieve the ultimate truth. Hinduism is a little put down because of the
superstition and caste system. Nevertheless, I am proud of being a Hindu Marwari.
Customs and traditions have always been famous in our culture, and being Hindu adds
more to it.  
Kishan and Sanita have their interpretations of Hinduism in Marwari culture. Kishan thinks
Hinduism as to achieve re-incarnation, whereas Sanita believes in reaching the universal truth.
There are no strict and absolute rules to follow Hinduism for Marwaris. Nevertheless, it points
out that this culture is not rigid for other religions. Thus, Marwaris are more welcoming about
Jainism along with Hinduism. They are happy in following different traditions and festivals.

During the interview, the informants are asked to provide their knowledge in the dual practice of
Hindu and Jain religion by Marwaris. In this context, Ram spoke this view:  
I have only heard of Hindu Marwaris. I do not know others because I only see Hindu
Marwaris in the temple, and yes, the temple is the main center for worshipping God. The
priest is the one who knows better to perform Puja and the devotees from his culture. The
priest in the temple protects the purity of God and those who visit it. Marwaris are true
Marwaris if they are Hindu because they have full dedication towards God, which I do

50
 not see in others. Maybe Jain Marwaris have entirely different ways to worship God, but
I only work for the Hindu Marwaris.    
To the same question, Neha came up with this idea:
 I rarely thought about whether Marwaris are Hindu or Jain. I believed it is the same. I
remember my mother told me about the Osvals, but I thought they are Hindu because
they speak similar languages. I do not know the exact things to practice my religion, but I
like things my culture provides that are festivals. However, I do not believe in evil
practices about religion in Marwaris and look for trusting God. I think that being a
Marwari is itself enough; the role of religion is secondary to me. 
Ram thinks that Marwari culture runs by Hinduism only and that he sees no traces of Jainism. He
believes in the strict Hindu culture, whereas Neha is not much concerned about religion in her
culture. However, there is a similar point of view regarding temple and priest, which gives an
impression of Hindu culture. The practices of Jainism seem to be affecting if it follows on a large
scale. 
My interviewees mostly believe in the Hindu dominant practices in a Marwari culture. They
justify it in different ways. To my question regarding if a temple is a leading center for
worshiping God and determining their religious belief and values? If yes, why? Was answered
by Gajendra as: 
God is omnipresent. He is everywhere, especially in my heart and soul. If I can love, respect,
and treat people rightly and equally, I can be near God. It is unnecessary to go to the
temple because the prayers from a pure heart can be heard from any place. Thus, I am
happy to see that people are trying to accept new religions in their culture but not
forgetting their own. It is how you move with time as well as save your culture. Rigidness
and orthodox views cannot survive long.
Similarly, Ajay also came up with a general view of his religion and culture. He was more
concerned about the religion's practicality as brought in Marwari culture through Jainism among
other informants.
My religion and culture are straightforward, and so am I. I like to be kind, honest, confident,
and respectful, which I think I got from my religion. Likewise, appreciating others for
their excellent work and serving society without any self profit is also something my
religion taught me. Jainism is all about working sincerely to save the planet, help the
51
 helpless people, respect all living and non-living things, and appreciate both the good
and bad things every time and everywhere. Thus, I am happy to call myself a Marwari;
no religious description is required.
The above sayings present that Marwari takes religion as their identity inherited by their birth.
They believe that they have received Hinduism from their family, which is part of their culture.
The Jains Marwari also follows Hinduism as their faith towards their culture. The concept of
going temple is primarily the product of Hinduism but also followed by Jain Marwaris. Their
daily behavior of caring, helping, and looking after each other helped Marwaris practice both
Hinduism and Jainism in their culture. There are several festivals and events which mark the
Hindu-Jain beliefs in Marwaris.
Likewise, modern Marwaris are taking it as a positive and more straightforward way of
explaining their culture. Humanity is above all the religion and culture, which is ultimately the
by-product of the culture they belong to. The right teachings and grooming of the cultural values
have shaped Marwaris in accepting the practices. It also follows the belief as well as rituals of
both Hinduism and Jainism.

4.1.3 Caste shapes the Culture

Hinduism is primarily based upon the caste system. It is seen in different ethnic communities,
castes, customs, and Nepal and Indian traditions. Mostly all the Hindu group comes under the
caste system, and Jain Marwaris is also categorized in the caste system in Marwari culture.
Legally, there might not be much discrimination, but the conservative and traditional thoughts
and practices of people are still leading to caste biases in society. Since a child is born, he is
designated to a particular caste to his parents belong. There are few societies which still believes
in the untouchability in the caste system, and hence, it is a burden for the progressing society.
The caste system also defines the religious and social practices for each group. For example,
people from low caste are prohibited from going to temples. No one eats the food prepared by
them or even the water touched by them.
Talking about such a system, my informants presented different views in their understanding of
Marwari culture's caste system, as seen in Kathmandu.
Prabin replied like this:

52
 Yes, I believe that Hinduism has the concept of a caste system. The caste system puts me in the
third position, "Vaishyas," but who cares. In the past, people born of upper-caste families
did not reasonably treat lower caste people; in other words, they were not given equal
respect and opportunities in society. Nevertheless, the time is changed now, and people
believe in hard work and talent rather than just the social division people are put into.
Discrimination based on caste, race, culture, or anything is unacceptable, and I am also
against it.
On the other hand, Rekha has a different and more in-depth understanding of Marwari culture's
caste system. According to her: 
Of course, our society built-in caste system, and it is pretty good. That is the reason our
society and culture are running for ages. I accept that few things are not up to the mark,
but nothing in the world is termed as perfect. I am a Marwari woman, and I feel that I get
the respect my caste and culture has given to me. If caste and culture were not necessary,
then how could we be indigenous or, in simple words, different from others. 
To my surprise, Prabin and Rekha replied to my questions in a more conservative and traditional
approach of Hinduism in their culture. They explained the caste system's rightness as it set an
individual's duties for the peace and society. Both believed that there must be some difference
due to which one is considered distinct from the other. They feel that it is because of Hinduism
that Marwari culture has been able to sustain their cultural values in this modern era. 
Regarding the practice of dual religion in Marwari culture from the perspective of the caste
system, Priyanshu came up with this idea:
It is imperative to have a caste system in any society. It creates a distinction between people
who think we are all equal. I do not think we are equal because, since humans evolved
from 'Kalyug' as per the mythological point of view, there has always been a difference
amongst people. I am happy that I am in a good position, and our culture indeed follows
it. I am not rude to others, but I feel proud of what I am, and I value my religious and
cultural identity. Further, as much as I know Marwaris, mostly, all would agree with me.
On the contrary, Divyesh thinks:
As coming from a wealthy family, I always thought that we are from the top caste, but it is
shocking to know that we are categorized in the third level of the division. Regardless of
which, we get respect as the top people. So, I am not convinced whether we believe in the
53
 caste system or someone's financial strength. Nevertheless, I am always grateful to God
for not making me born in the untouchable group and making me a member of the
Marwari family. As a Marwari, I have achieved lots of success, which my mother says
that it is in our blood. 
Both of my respondents are aware of the caste system, and they have faith in it. They believe that
the caste system is vital in maintaining the social and financial status of livelihood in competition
with other communities. They are proud to be Marwari, and they regard it as their luck to be a
part of the culture that has a significant history since human civilization. 
In my query about any effects that could be positive or negative occurred by the caste system to
practice their religious ideologies in Marwari culture, Dikshya said:
I was still unknown to several facts that my culture is enriched with but praise every bit of it. I
know that my family follows a precise system that is probably influenced by Hinduism. I
have never faced a situation where I had witnessed anyone discriminated against for
their caste. However, I remember that when I went to Nohar, Rajasthan, to my
grandparents' home, there was a lady who used to come and clean our toilets. My
grandma uses to ask her not to come inside the house. I thought it is because she could
contain germs and be allowed after taking a shower. I recently realized that she was not
allowed to enter as she was from a scheduled class. 
Similarly, Manila also added:
The discrimination practiced in the name of caste is not acceptable. It is high time people
should focus on individual talent and creativity instead of treating them with their caste
system's baggage. I think it is unfair to categorize people for the type of origin they hold.
Moreover, I believe people should not even differentiate between a man and a woman. If
you know the Marwari culture, you should have probably notice unequal treatment for
men and women. Likewise, it is the same for people from the lower caste.
Dikshya and Manila have a different opinion regarding the caste system in Marwari culture.
They think that it is too orthodox and has been an old way of approaching any culture. They add
that culture can sustain without the caste system, as seen from the Western perspective. Earlier,
the differences in the duties and roles were prominent but, not now. People must change
according to the time, and few things must undoubtedly be modified. 

54
Caste indeed shapes the culture. Looking at the response from these Marwaris it shows that caste
is shaping their culture. It began to differentiate the work division among the people, which
ultimately became a mark of identity and social status. People from the low caste sought
alternative religions to respect society, resulting in Jainism's practices within Marwaris. Caste is
the product of Hinduism, but recently, it is changing with religion. Whether it is Hindu or Jain
Marwari, caste is not so important as before. However, the fusion in the practices of Hinduism
and Jainism is influenced by the caste system.

4.1.4 Marwaris in Kathmandu

Kathmandu is the home for numbers of Marwaris, even though their origins hold back to
Rajasthan, India. Both the neighboring countries share many similarities depending upon the
topography, business market, language, culture, and religion. Thus, it has become easy for
Marwaris to migrate and establish their roots in Kathmandu. Regarding this topic, I asked my
informants to share their experience of being a Marwari in Kathmandu, Nepal.
For this, Pankaj says:
There is a vast difference between the Marwaris in Rajasthan and Kathmandu. Be it food,
language, clothes, or any day to day activities. In my experience, Marwaris in
Kathmandu are more liberal than in Rajasthan. It is also because the original remains
original, and the other can only be the copied version. Furthermore, while copying, you
can miss out on so many things. Marwaris in Kathmandu are much isolated and do not
concern with others than the Marwaris in Rajasthan. I am typically a Kathmandu
Marwari, and I better like it.
In my same question, Sujit answered in this way:
I have not noticed a great variety between Nepal and India. However, in both countries,
Marwari culture is similar as they follow collectively having mutual respect and
background. The bond among the family and its members is deep and intense in this
culture, whether you are in Nepal or India. Marwaris are Marwaris wherever you send
them. They can never change because their grooming is in such a manner that it is
reflected in any individual, whether it is India, Nepal, or any part of the world. 
Pankaj and Sujit both agree that they have noticed several changes as being Marwari in Nepal
and India. They said that the changes are because Nepal is a new land with no traces of the
55
culture's origin, so they have accepted as it was possible. Nevertheless, Rajasthan being its
mainland of origin people is peculiar and specific about the do and don'ts. Despite the changes,
Marwari has gained respect and popularity in Nepalese society. 
To my question, what is culture for you? Is it an identity or something else? Pradip responded as
follow:
I am Marwari reflects my identity no matter which part of the world I am in. Sometimes, if I
have some problems related to being called an outsider here in Kathmandu, I will look
for the solution, and you know we Marwaris are very talented in this. No one can defeat a
true 'Baniya.' I know that we are holding the business here, so I do not fear anyone. My
culture has always taught me to be hardworking, carry fair business without cheating,
and respect each other. If a person is evident in his/her thoughts, he/she can achieve all
the respect and honor he/she deserves.
Kunal also replied to the same question as:
The tactics for business are god gifted to Marwaris. Doing business is in my blood, my genes.
You cannot takeout business skills from Marwaris wherever they go. When people ask my
introduction, I say that I am a Marwari before I say my name. It is a sense of pride, especially in
Kathmandu, because we count on the rich and wealthy people. For me, being Marwari is vital
than religion. The respect I get from people here is more than what I could have to get in India. 
My respondents also linked Marwari as their identity marker in the Nepalese society. They said
their business roles had defined their cultural values in the Nepalese context. Being a Marwari in
Kathmandu has gained lots of responsibilities and respect for an individual concerning religion
and caste. They added that Nepalese believe in the caste system and Hinduism, making it easier
to gel up with them and get involved, creating a separate image for them. 
Concerning the Nepalese society, Marwari culture has roots in India. The adaptation of Marwari
culture in the Nepalese culture and society has a significant role in people living here, especially
in Kathmandu. To understand the position of Marwaris in Nepalese society, its challenges, and
qualities, Rinkey gave her view as:
I believe that Marwari has become a part of Nepalese society and culture. We have our clubs
and associations, which allows us to unite and promote our culture. Even the government
is supporting. For example, Marwari ladies perform a ritual of carrying 'Kalash' (a jar
filled with water) during the Dashain festival. During this, the roads jam and there are
56
 several preparations where the government must take care of it. If we were not given any
help, love, and care from the people and government, I do not think this would be
possible. Kathmandu has accepted us as we have accepted it as our land. 
On the other hand, Paras thinks:
Sometimes I feel saddened to see the different behavior of people towards us. They see us an
outsider who makes my heart break into pieces. I am born here, and it is my homeland,
but still, if anything wrong happens, people taunt me with go back to your country. I
know Marwaris have held the business in Kathmandu and other parts of Nepal, but
sometimes I feel uneasy. I am not sure what to say next, but I am not so happy here as I
still do not get the vibes of self inclusion.  
Rinkey thinks that Marwaris have been entirely accepted by the Nepalese society, whereas Paras
says that he is not. Both have different opinions regarding their acceptance. Rinkey believes like
any other community, Marwaris have gained their position in Nepalese culture and society. In
contrast, Paras is convincing with his personal experience of being treated as an outsider in
Nepal.
Marwaris are famously known as the businessmen in Kathmandu. They have become an integral
part of the Nepalese society by contributing a large scale to its economy. The Nepalese culture is
like Indian culture with most Hindus. Marwaris holds a dominant place in Kathmandu. The
relations boom by respecting the origin in a foreign land. However, being a Marwari is important
than being a Hindu or Jain. Being in the minority without hesitation, Jains Marwaris accepts the
Hindu belief system. Hindu Marwaris do not mind the Jainism if it does not affect the Hindu
mentality among Marwaris.

4.1.5 Marwaris as migrants

Kathmandu has become an attractive place for Marwaris because of its climate and marketplace.
As mentioned before, Marwaris are active in business, and their migration is always dependent
upon the expansion and development of their business. Nepal shares similar cultural and
religious background with India, which has made easy for Marwaris to migrate and settle here
easily
Kathmandu. Therefore, I asked my interviewees to present their experience of being a migrant in
Kathmandu, Nepal.
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Raju presented his opinion as:
I do not think Marwaris are migrants anymore. I mean, it has been years since we are living
here, and this has become our new home. Many of us are also provided with national
identity papers, which justifies that we are Nepali Marwari; however, it does not erase
the fact that my origin traces back to India. Whether it is Jain or Hindu Marwari, we are
free to follow our religion and culture. I practice Hindu culture and rituals, but I do not
mind people following Jainism or even mixing it with Hinduism.
Similarly, Amar replied to the same question as:
Kathmandu is my birthplace, so I love it. Despite having my origins in India, I love and
respect Nepal as it has accepted and recognized being a Nepali Marwari. Talking about
the Marwari culture, I sometimes see that few people are trying to incorporate several
things in our culture. They include practices from Jainism, which I do not like because
Marwaris do not practice this. People should follow limited and straightforward
practices as it is easy for everyone to understand and respect their culture better.
To my query regarding migration and the Indian immigrants to Nepal, Raju and Amar came up
with their ideas of being accepted by Nepal. They have found similarities in the caste system and
Hindu traditions, which have made them easily connected. They also concluded that freedom in
religion does not mean to mix everything. A community follows certain things because it bounds
with it.
Concerning their immigration identity, I have interviewed the people about their adoption and
practices in Nepalese society. Similarly, I have asked them if they think practicing their religious
and cultural festivals has brought any change in the Nepalese society. Concerning the
immigration and adoption of Marwaris in Kathmandu, Arjun said this:
I know my ancestors came to Nepal, but why are we still called immigrants? I do not know.
We are part of this society and culture. If you look at Nepal’s history, almost all the
people have migrated from India or China, but I do not get the fact that they call us
immigrants. I have got citizenship and belong to this place. I do not deny that I am
accepted culturally or religiously; it is just a feeling of belongingness. If you look from
the aesthetic point of view, you will notice that they have adopted so many traits from
Marwaris. One such example would be adding ‘Haldi and Mehendi’ ceremony in Nepali
weddings. 
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Sabin adds about the change Marwaris brought to Nepalese society.
Marwaris has held up the Nepali society in the best manner possible. Marwaris made it
possible for Nepalese markets to grow overseas. The trade and culture flourished, so I
guess Marwaris has become an integral part of the Nepali society and culture. Marwaris
are open to adapt and change, which is why we can see several changes in people's day-
to-day behavior. I have noticed that many people have started using their surname as
Jain to give others an impression of Marwari.
Arjun and Sabin think that Nepalese still think all Marwaris are Indians because of their origins,
which is partially true. Most of the Marwaris have Nepalese citizenship and should accept by
everyone wholeheartedly. Nevertheless, they only differ when Sabin thinks Marwaris are
accepted readily by Nepalese, whereas Arjun thinks they must face many difficulties.
Another query concerned with the type of culture, similar or different to Marwaris found in
Kathmandu, has been answered by Enika. She expressed her views like this: 
Nepal elegantly accepted us. There are all the rights to perform our art and culture here. The
beauty of our culture is reflected and noticed in Nepalese society as well. The dedication
towards work and maintaining religious values at the same time is what we are usually
get praised for. The only sad thing I have noticed is that people from other cultures use
our surnames and misuse our cultural and religious values. I have heard several Bihari
people asking them to call as Marwaris, which is not good. We have our own moral and
social standards, which are absent in other people. 
In my same question, Puja replied this:
As my name suggests, we are very religious people. Marwaris chose Nepal for trading and
decided to settle here because Nepal is also the land of temples. People here give priority
to perform their religious activities. Primarily if you investigate the Newar community,
you can see many similarities with Marwari people. I guess coming here as an immigrant
was the best decision one could have made. I am happy to be a Marwari and a citizen of
Nepal. I believe everyone feels like I do hope. 
My respondents think that Marwaris have controlled the Nepalese economy, so their acceptance
is in Nepal. Enika is a bit upset with others being called Marwaris as well, whereas Puja is trying
to link and compare Marwari and Newar culture.

59
Marwaris' migration to Kathmandu is for trade, business, and better opportunities. Despite being
away from their homeland, they successfully maintain their language, clothes, food, and
Nepalese culture. While migrating, Marwaris faced several things, but their origins and roots link
to Hinduism. However, with secularity in the country, people are motivated to incorporate many
things, among which Jainism is one. Marwaris holds a prominent and wealthy status, which
makes it easier to accept them in society. The respondents feel that Hinduism and Jainism are
easy to follow in Nepal than in India. Art and culture also resemble each other. The origin may
vary, but the core remains the same wherever they are. Nepal has been home to Marwaris for
ages.

4.1.6 Role of Marwaris women in Jain-Hindu duo

Women play a vital role in any culture to maintain the rites, rituals, and practices. The
association amongst the family and society and daily doings helps follow the trend of religious
impact over the family and community. Thus, women play a vital role in setting up the religious
impact on the family. The situation gets changed whenever people migrate or travel.
The practices of Hinduism and Jainism or even both are the personal choices of my informants.
Their responses included in this thesis are solely based upon their personal opinions and
experiences. Especially, here the focus is on Marwaris women. Hindu women believe Puja is the
main connecting link between worshiping God for following the religion and maintaining the
culture. In contrast, Jain women believe in practicing silence fast, saving water and food, and so
on. Such differences in beliefs and practices lead the followers to look for different ways of
practicing it outside the culture. Regarding the women practices of Jain-Hindu culture here in
Kathmandu, Rupi Jain replied as:
I am a Jain, but I like visiting the Hindu temple in the city occasionally. There is no Jain
temple here, so going to a Hindu temple and burning incense sticks makes me feel
spiritual, calm, and peaceful. It also gives me relaxation and peacefulness, which I expect
from going to Jain temple. Nevertheless, it does not mean that I am Hindu. I also do my
religious activities that are of Jainism. 
On the other hand, Manya has a different understanding of Jain-Hindu's practice. According to
her: 

60
 I rarely heard Jain-Marwari not doing Puja or not following the Hindu practices. Because I
believe Jain Marwaris presents their dual side when it comes to religion. Firstly, they
pretend that they are Jain, but on the other hand, they practice everything which we
Hindu Marwaris do, whether it is marriage, childbirth, funeral, or many more. Due to a
hectic schedule and unfavorable situation, this is an excuse not to follow the religion
properly as it gives them a reason for not doing certain things. However, I am not sure if
anything like this exists or not. I am a decent follower of Hinduism and carry out the
puja, festivals, or any event as per Marwari culture and traditions.
There are contradicting responses about Jain-Hindu practices from these two informants.
However, in a way, agreed that there is a mixture of both religions. Rupi wants to perform it in
the duo religious culture, whereas Manya believes only for Hindu Marwaris. Interestingly both
of my informants are aware of the impact of Jainism in Hindu Marwari culture.  
To dig up on to the role of women in Marwari culture and their contribution in the dual practices
of Hindu and Jain religion, Poonam came up with her opinion as:
Being a Marwari woman is a sense of pride and has many responsibilities. The expectation of
taking care of the family and giving the cultural knowledge to our young ones is on us.
With the increase in the number of secularity and modernity, Marwari culture has also
adopted several features. One of which is the cross marriage between Hindus and Jains. I
cannot clearly say all Jains are Marwaris, but few of them are certainly are. Mostly, Jain
women are getting married to Marwaris men. I do not know how it started or why, but I
have noticed several changes in our culture since it started. I do not want to categorize it
as good or bad. 
In the same manner, Riya also believed that:
The expectation of women is higher in any culture or religion. Women are the subject of
matter whereby the set rules define their identity. I think being born to a Marwari family,
I was growing up with the same mentality. I was a Jain before getting married to a
typical Hindu Marwari guy, but I genuinely do not notice much change. There are a
couple of things which are different, be it language, cooking food or anything. The most
important thing that differentiates Jain and Hindu Marwari would be the fasting system, I
guess. For Jain, fasting is crucial as you contribute something to save the earth, whereas
it is to keep a long life for the husband for Hindus.  
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Both Poonam and Riya think that women in high society are independent, whereas low- and
middle-class women are housewives. It is because they are more conscious about the image in
society. Religion has set the rules and duties for them, and it is almost impossible for them to go
against it. The practice of Jainism is also possible because the men allowed it to do so.
I thought asking male members about women's responsibilities in Hindu and Jain religion's dual
practices in Marwari culture is fascinating. To my questions, Sanjay said:
In my opinion, women have a vital role to play in society. Importantly, Marwari women hold
lots of responsibilities. They must follow all the rituals sensitively and strictly as it is a
matter of pride for the family. While talking about Hindu and Jain fusion, I can only say
that people are beautiful to get married to their Hindu boys with Jain girls. It is rare to
see a Hindu girl getting married to a Jain boy. It might be because there is still a sense of
difference in the religious belief and practice system. Moreover, it has become a fashion
to write Jain as their surname, which they believe defines their personality as different in
the culture. 
In the same regard, Dhiraj expressed his opinion as:
By nature, women are very submissive, and the culture inherent as they bring up in that
manner. Any festivals are incomplete without ladies. Daughters, sisters, wives play a vital
role as no function is complete without them. Only women can bring happiness in
whatever they are doing with their loving and caring nature. It is because of this; women
are more religious than men. When it comes to religion and culture, women seem to be
more persistent than men. A Marwari woman is the example of an idol daughter, wife,
sister, or any role. Modernity and urban values have tried to modify their materialistic
values but not the social and moral ones. 
Sanjay and Dhiraj think that women have a vital role to play in society. They think that Marwaris
women groomed to get married since they are born. It does not change wherever she lives or
what qualifications she gets; Marwaris's most important are her expectations. Even if she goes
abroad to study, the expectation is for her to get married. Women have ambition, but the pressure
is a lot on them, which clearly shows a male dominance over them. 
The role of Marwari women is very crucial in determining religious status in their culture. They
are the ones responsible for cultivating their culture from one generation to another. As per the
interviews, mostly Marwari women are less educated and hold little academic knowledge. It is
62
one of the reasons the Marwari's family have a tremendous cultural impact. Going to temples,
praying, celebrating festivals and rituals are more relevant to women than men. For example, if a
girl follows Jainism, she will likely carry it to a Hindu boy when married. The cross-religious
marriage is making women practice both Hinduism and Jainism in Marwaris smoothly.

4.1.7 Role of business in Marwaris

Marwaris, being known as just shopkeeper, also has reflected their indigenous identity in their
business. The family's constant support made it possible for the Marwaris to maintain a well to
do position in society. The traditional and patriarchal hierarchy of society has defined roles for
both men and women. It is visible in their tactics of doing business. Directly lending money to
spend on big projects, their religious and cultural aspects can quickly be figured out. Marwaris
tries to avoid loss as much as possible. They incorporate a religious belief in the way they do
business. Whether it is a charity or spend on self expenses, everything looks upon from the
religious perspective. Women are responsible for managing the family, which indirectly helps
them balance the business. When it is about making money, they are ready to accept the
possibilities of both Hinduism and Jainism in their business. However, Hindu Marwaris, as the
majority, usually worship Goddesses Lakshmi in their shops and offices. They do not lend
money on the first hour of the day as it is regarded as unlucky.
Regarding this query, Bikash replied:
There is a reason for Marwaris categorize under the ‘Vaishays’ in the caste system because
we are involved in trading and business. There is no dynamic group like ours. We are
smart and creative with our business ideas, bargaining skills, and flourishing trade.
Generally, we like to run our business instead of working under somebody else.
Marwaris believe in being efficient and talented in Mathematics and Accounts. The daily
accounting system has made us popular amongst others who think doing business is easy
and are not sincere towards their work. We give equal respect to our work as well as
religion. For us, business is our God, and we take care of it. 
Considering business ideology with religion, I asked my informant Prem about the business and
its understanding. To which he replied:
Business is a way of living for Marwaris. You can pick up any individual from the Marwaris
who reflect their identity from the business. Business is inseparable from them and goes
63
 along with Marwaris. They are in two parts of the same coin. Sometimes it is hard to
distinguish their personal and professional life because of which they get into trouble.
The family is sometimes unhappy to see the inseparable relationship of their business in
private life. Few people believe that giving a job to a Marwari can be eventually put
down his own business as they can take experience and start up their own. 
Likewise, Rukesh also came up with a similar idea:
Money, money, money, I think Marwaris only think of money. Usually, they like to be involved
in self-ownership. For some, it is shameful to do a job under someone else’s supervision.
It is genetical for transferring a business from one generation to the other. The new
generation carries the values and assets from the previous generations. The inherited
quality of doing business and being the successor of running the business and
transferring became Marwaris' social identity. The burden comes when one has to
maintain the level of pride one has gained from its business. 
Mohit also has his similar thought of business and culture. He added:
The business has become a social level maintenance for Marwaris. As you know, Marwaris
got involved in education very later in society. As their education level was low, they
concentrated more on business. The sole idea of not pursuing education and academic
qualification was that they could focus more on business. Marwaris believed that
business could teach a lot more than gaining education qualifications. Society expected
Marwaris to be prolific and wealthy, which put pressure on them to maintain the same
level of social prestige. Such pressure made us involved in business so profoundly that it
has nearly become impossible for people to differentiate Marwaris from their business.  
It is fascinating to know that Marwaris are so eager about business. Almost all my male
respondents came up with a similar viewpoint that business is their way of living and a matter of
pride for them. They think that education qualification is still not that important today as to own
a self-business. They said that it is always to have control in our hands than to be under someone.
They added that business is to gain profit, and profit does not come when you work for others.  
I learned that Marwari men start and carry their business freely. They are responsible for
permitting their daughters, wives, or other ladies to start or lookup for any business.
Nevertheless, recently, women have also learned to involve in business. After realizing that

64
women still need permissions from the male figures from their family, I was inquisitive and
wanted to listen more about their say in the business. To this, Sarita replied:
Since I got married, I look after my husband’s shop. I look for accounts, stock, and every tiny
detail regarding the shop. Until last year, I could not work because I had children and in-
laws to look for them. However, I convinced my husband to help him, as staying at home
made me depressed. I do not know much about business. However, I follow whatever he
asks me to do because I do not think he will be happy if I make any decision for him or
the shop. So, for me, business is looking after the shop. It is like what I do at home.
Moreover, this society is male dominant, and owning a sole business by a lady takes
much courage. 
In a quite similar way, Ishika expressed her view differently:  
I have always been a working lady since I was a teenager. I was fascinated by the fashion
industry, and I had pursued my educational degrees in it. My father helped me in starting
my boutique. Here, you will get all types of ethnic, casual, and party wear for women,
especially Marwaris. I am in this business for the last ten years, and I am successful in
this. I have been able to continue this even after marriage. I know for some women in my
community; it is challenging as their husbands or families will not like working women. I
think my culture has, in a way, made me rebellious.
Sarita and Ishika understood business as a means of freedom from the roles they play in their
culture. They think that women are always vulnerable because they need permission to do
something new from the culture's prejudices. They added that business is vital for Marwaris but
is limited to only men because they think that if women start working, they shall look after the
family and fears losing control over them. Women have excelled in many genres, but tackling
the family is a difficult one. 
The ideas mentioned above of the respondents shows that business for Marwaris is their identity.
They do not believe in academic knowledge and yearns for the practical skills of business and
entrepreneurship. Money and profit matter to them, and it reflects their thoughts about the
understanding of society. The involvement of women is also minimal compared to men. Even
educated women become a house maker or look after the businessmen hold in their families.
Their social status and identity present economic progress rather than religion. Thus, to maintain

65
their financial status, religious practices are not of much concern for Marwaris. Few believe that
Jainism is part of Hinduism, and there is no harm in practicing it.
Therefore, the data included in this chapter clearly explains the practices of Hinduism and
Jainism in Marwari culture. It also shows different aspects which are leading to do so. The
feedbacks and responses collected from the field have an essential role in this thesis. Caste
certainly structured the Marwari's culture, but the Hindu ideologies became open to accept and
adopt new beliefs and practices. Their migration from India to Nepal, particularly in Kathmandu,
helped their food, language, clothes, and festivals expand and enhance. The Nepalese culture
influenced by Hindu ideology allowed Marwaris to blend smoothly with them. The motive of
trade and business also included the exchange of religion and culture. Women are responsible for
carrying these values to the next generation. Hence, practicing Hinduism and Jainism results
from the interrelation of caste, religion, migration, business, and women.

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5 CHAPTER-V

Analysis and Summary

5.1.1 Introduction
The collected data needs to be discussed, analyzed, and summarized to give proper meaning and
reflect this thesis's main idea. The data is collected through the field work-study and interviews
of the Marwaris in Kathmandu, Nepal, whereby the interviewees provide their ideas, opinions,
perspectives, experiences, and behavior of Hinduism's duo religious practices Jainism in their
culture. The similarity or differences is solely based on their understanding of their religion,
culture, and tradition. Likewise, the information on the majority of Hindu Marwaris and Jain
minorities is also depicted from their individual’s point of view. It explains and clarifies
Hinduism and Jainism, identity theory, migration theory, and gender theory.
I found that discussing whether my interviewees have practiced these two religions out of social
or religious reasons was not an absolute answer. In agreement with other authors, I found a
possibility for multiple reasons for mixing up two beliefs in one culture, which does not
necessarily contradict each other. Nevertheless, I would say most of the data pointed towards it
having to be more than just external, social factors behind a drastic and life-changing choice to
mix up Hinduism and Jainism. There might have been several reasons leading up to the mixture,
but these reasons are, as I see it, not equally important for the final decision to mix religions and
worldviews. I mostly disagree with those simplifying a mixing process as a calculated move to
escape one's reality and climb up the social ladder without giving the personal, spiritual, and
existential reasons more focus of importance.
When looking at the religious aspects of practicing dual religion in my material, there were
especially four reasons standing out that constitute my religious reasons in my thesis. The
importance of the content of Hinduism and Jainism was firstly the Marwaris' realization of
practicing dual beliefs in their lives and their need for a peaceful continuation and, secondly,
their realization of the culture change. The second aspect was met with answers and information
to their questions in their religious quest for identity. The third was their experience of migration
to Nepal from India and active in their lives in Kathmandu. Fourth and finally, the aspect of
women's trust and faith in the culture necessary for their mixture was prominent.
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5.1.2 Inclusion or Separation
Any individual's circumstances do not remain static throughout, which is also visible in their
cultures, such as language, music and dance, art and craft, dress, festivals, food, and business.
One of the primary reasons can be migration as people tend to move from one place to another
for better opportunities and life. This process can be easy and smooth if people have a sense of
belonging within their community and adapt to new features. It can be difficult if they are
inseparably different in the same group. Marwari culture is rich in its language, music and dance,
arts and crafts, dresses, festivals, and food. They are also famous for their business skills and
family management.
There are few unclear distinctions between Jain and Hindu Marwaris about their origin,
traditions, cultural practices, values, etc. Hence, it is difficult to distinguish the similarities and
differences in religious practices by them. While talking about the worship and prayers, like any
other Hindu, Marwaris also regard temples as the holiest place to worship. Nevertheless, these
temples comprise only Hindu gods and goddesses and have tiny Jain temples in Kathmandu city.
People from both religions mostly pay a visit to temples regularly or on special occasions as per
their choices. They offer prayers to idols, flowers, fruits, money, incense, and many more
depending upon their financial status. Wearing shoes and anything made from animal skin or
leather while praying is strictly prohibited inside the temple.
Culture and religion are the different sides of the same coin because, for some people, culture is
the result of religion, whereas some religions are practiced because of their culture. In both ways,
it can be said that religion and culture are inter-related. In the context of Marwari communities,
culture has a more significant role in their lives than religion. However, Jain Marwaris feel lost
amongst the majority of Hindu Marwaris. There are mostly Hindu temples, institutions, and
organizations in Kathmandu as compared to Jains. However, the adaptation by both regarding
their religious practices in their culture is something interesting to look for. Their sayings in the
data presentation chapter are that they can practice their religion and culture even in there are
similarities and differences amongst the belief system regarding their religion.
There are various definitions given by different scholars about culture concerning their countries,
ethnicity, and religion. Culture is something that works as a base for linking and connecting
people. Any individual or group's traditions and culture are reflected by their appearances,
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language, cuisine, music, arts, etc. The peculiarity is reflected through its identity, as in this
research, the concerned group is Marwaris in Kathmandu.
Culture does not require any concrete evidence to get recognition. It is the way people like to
follow and carry their traditions and values. People have different ways of living, eating food,
wearing clothes, languages, festivals depending upon the geographical structure, which reflects
their culture. It works as an identity marker for some people. For instance, the red color is the
sign of fertility for Marwari women. It is the reason they put vermillion powder on their forehead
and henna on their palms to represent that their husband is alive. Similarly, they have a unique
necklace ‘Mangalsutra’ and bangles to show themselves as married. However, this does not
apply to Marwari men, which is a unique culture.

5.1.3 The Significance of Puja Practice

Caste shapes Hinduism's traditional and cultural values depending upon the actions and
reflections revolving around the cycle of births and deaths. In contrast, Jainism believes in self-
help rather than God or spiritual beings. The right belief, knowledge, and conduct can help
achieve it. It also promotes non-violence. The Marwari community's origin traces its roots from
northern India, which later migrated to different parts of the world, among which Kathmandu,
Nepal, is concerned in this thesis. The common surname given to Marwaris is Agrawal, which
means the child of the King Agrasen. Among other Marwaris, Osvals are a fair reflection of
Hindu-Jain synchronization. The reflection of Marwari culture is in the practices of birth,
marriage, death, language, food, art, music, festivals, and health. These rituals help understand
their culture as these rites of passage are regarded as essentials to Marwaris.
Practicing Puja is one of the most important rituals in Hinduism. Whether it is a regular Puja at
home or some temples, occasions, and festivals, it has its unique procedures and prayers
depending upon the events. Performing Puja is essential from minor events to significant life
events, be it childbirth, marriage, death, starting a new business, buying a new house or car, etc.
In temples, Puja is performed periodically and daily by a priest. He is responsible for enchanting
prayers, decorating idols of gods and goddesses, and distribute offerings as a blessing to the
people. At home, there is a separate room or place where the idols are placed, and puja is
practiced. Usually, puja is done by women in the Marwari community. Marwaris follows and

69
worships all Hindu gods and goddesses, but Lakshmi remains the goddess of wealth and
prosperity. For them, Lakshmi Puja and Diwali is the main festival amongst many others.
Besides, performing and practicing puja also has different roles for both men and women in
Marwari culture and religion. Mostly in Hindu and Jain temples, priests' position is given to men
as women are tagged impure during their menstrual period. Women are prohibited from entering
the kitchen, temples, or any places with religious belongings or items placed in it if they have
their cycle.

5.1.4 The Significance of Business

The Marwaris, who originated in Rajasthan, India, migrated to different parts of the world due to
geo-socio, economic and political factors. During their immigration, Nepal became a more
accessible and better choice for them to settle. The religious and cultural practices are observed
in their daily activities, among which business is one. Despite many challenges and demanding
positions, Marwaris became persistent in Kathmandu. The primary reason for migration for them
had to be business.
‘Marwari,’ the ethnic label is subjective and often used as a slur that defines the businessmen as
the ‘outsider,’ the ‘other’ who is swindling you, as they do not share community ties of language
and local identity. Many Marwaris themselves consider the term a pejorative and, instead, choose
to identify themselves by their sub-caste. Marwaris's criticisms and economic activities are
comparable to what minority trading groups have historically faced elsewhere in the world.
Every individual has his/her own experience of ‘knowing’ Marwaris. The essential or
stereotypical features are their association with commerce, a network of relatives and cousins on
all-important trading routes to the metropolis, fluently speaking the local language, and their
native tongue, despite the ‘exile’ from home and regular visits to the home. The distinctiveness
and their links to home despite living in different parts of India and Nepal for an extended period
maintained and perceived Marwari values.

5.1.4.1 The Gaddi Culture

Marwaris follow their pursuit of wealth dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Laxmi. They made
‘Gaddis,’ the seat of power to worship her. Later, it became their trademark to do business by
seating in the gaddi, whereby white sheets spread onto big mattresses. Every day, after the
70
morning prayers, the ‘Seths,’ owner of the business, would sit on their respective Gaddis
followed by ‘Munims,’ experts at money lending. Seths clads in their turbans, ‘kamaris’ (one
yard long and one food full cloth bags), and (dhotis traditional attire). Kamaris were important
for Marwaris because it would hold up to ten to fifteen kilos of coins and made it safer to carry
them by tying it to their waist rather than carrying it openly (Taknet, 2016).
The Marwaris followed a simple accounting system. Traditionally, they maintained their
accounts in large red cloth ledgers, which changes during the Laxmi Puja on Diwali. The book of
accounts was called a ‘bahi’ known as an accurate record of events and transactions. The word
‘bahi-khata’ denoted the system of accounts and the entire set of accounts book. They would
entirely rely on the ‘parta’ their technique of cost accountancy. It was a kind of financial
performance monitoring system which determined profit or loss daily. The daily accounts of cash
and credit were counted and recorded at the end of every business day. They would count the
money earned from sales during the closing and made an entry on the bahis. This method helped
them closely monitor their cash flow and calculate their net profit (Taknet, 2016).
The Marwaris traders had competent ‘Munims’ in their Gaddis, who specialized in bookkeeping
and maintaining the files. They handled the purchases and sales, bearing in mind the falling or
rising market prices. They managed the loading of goods, prepared vouchers, and deposited
taxes. Loan recovery, handling of hundis, forwarding deals were part of their duties (Taknet,
2016). It has helped Marwaris to sustain their culture in business to date.

5.1.5 The Significant Role of Women

Gender is described as socially constructed roles for men and women and implies different social
norms and cultural expectations. Religion and culture have their division of practices for men
and women. Hinduism believes in the inclusion of both men and women in building society but
places men at the hierarchical division's top. There are different sets of rules for both men and
women. The religious ideologies and belief system challenge the biological differences.
Similarly, Jainism also defines the roles of women differently. While talking about the Marwari
culture compared to Hinduism and Jainism, Jainism provides a broader range for women than
men. Women are assigned to look after the family and maintain social status in society. A
rebellious woman symbolizes bad women in both religions, be it Hinduism and Jainism. 

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‘Women working together - linked, informed, and educated – can bring peace and prosperity to
this forsaken planet’ said by Isabel Allende clearly defines a modern Marwari woman. Women
in the Marwari community believes in having close relations with the family and community.
They are well informed about their duties and are capable of educating their family about it.
Their determination to manage and nurture the family has made it possible for men to be
successful and efficient in their business. Women are not only concerned with the family but
their status and image in society. A woman from a good background family must groom herself
in such a manner that she can reflect the ideologies from her attire and behavior. 
In this context, George Eliot explained a Marwari woman and her choices for clothes and
jewelry. She explained:
Marwari women will undoubtedly agree as their love for bright, sparkling jewelry is well
matched by their colorful attire. Wearing ‘borlas’ and ‘mang tikkas’ on their hair and
crown, respectively; a ‘nathni’ on the nose; ‘tagdi’ on the waist; ‘tussi’ ‘satladas’ and
other types of jewelry around the neck; ‘hathphool’ and a variety of ‘kadas’ and bangles
on the wrist, their adomments were the envy of many. Their multi-hued ‘ghagra-cholis,
lehengas, leheriya saris’ and wedding ‘poshak’ have vowed women the world over.
Could it be that their choice of bright colors was to add brightness to the starkness of the
land they lived? Indeed, their vivid sense of ‘shringar’ speaks volumes of their identity,
intense, bright spirits with a love for and appreciation of beauty and gaiety. (Taknet,
2016) 
The identity of a Marwari woman represents her looks and attire. The choices of jewelry and
clothes determine her financial and social background. It is most common during weddings
where the family's sole respect depends upon their financial investment in clothes and jewelry.
However, with the change of time, the choices and roles of women have modified.  
As Diane Mariechild describes: ‘A woman is a full circle. The power to create, nurture, and
transform’ lies inside her. The transformation of Marwari women from the past to the present is
worth praising. Modern Marwari women, erstwhile homemakers, equally possess the strength to
shape a country. Their role in society today is phenomenal. Managing and balancing their duties
both at home and in-office with great ease and comfort, after graduating with high degrees, they
are now doctors, pilots, engineers, hospitality professionals, teachers, administrators, and
businesspersons. Some many Marwari women writers and artists hold a prominent place in
72
Indian art and literature. They have provided their worth by contributing to the economy of the
country. There is no arena today which remains unconquered by Marwari women. They have
mastered all possibilities which a woman can dream of (Taknet, 2016). 

5.1.6 Synopsis of Data

Culture and religion help maintain a balance in society by reflecting their social, political,
economic, and geographical values. Each religion has its unique and distinct culture and
traditions from the others, which reflects their identity. Hence, the identity of any individual also
varies according to the situation. These characteristics help people synchronize and vary from
one another socially, financially, culturally, and geographically. Being in a culture with two
religions should have tolerance and adapting nature. This is prominently visible in the Marwari
culture, where they practice rituals in Hindu and some in Jain values. Most of the rituals and
events show the inclusion of both Hindu and Jain people. Their understanding and co-existence
is an ample example of a harmonious religious group. Marwaris are traditional and conservative,
modern, and religious, depending upon the person's nature.

5.1.6.1 Traditional and conservative Marwaris

People practice and perform religious activities in their culture as per their understanding. The
belief system, definition, and practice of culture depend solely upon their interpretations.
Marwari culture is rich in its traditional values, rites, and rituals. According to the informants,
few believed in the traditional concepts of Hinduism, whereas few in Jainism. They believe that
the Marwari culture is majorly shaped and influenced by the concept of re-birth and has
significantly less impact on Jainism. This has been carrying on for centuries from their parents,
ancestors, and most probably will forward to the next generations as well. Traditional Marwaris
focuses more on conservative thoughts regarding their religious, social, and political practices.
For few, Jains are categorized as the lower caste and untouchables group of Marwaris who are
deprived of equal respect and freedom to follow the Marwari traditions. Likewise, the concept of
inter-marriage, visiting Jain temples, or eating the food prepared by them is taken as a significant
offense. Among the interviews taken, only a few informants are conservative, especially towards
the women’s menstrual cycle. They believe that there are different roles for men and women to

73
play in society. Women expect to take care of the household and family while men go for
earning bread.

5.1.6.2 Modern Marwaris

With the evolution of time, people and societies are changing. The new concepts and belief
system help people quickly follow their culture and tradition. There are few informants with a
modern concept who rejects the so-called older thoughts and accept the duo relationship of
Hinduism and Jainism. They practice the typical, easy, and quick variations of the cultural
rituals. For instance, women are not only confined to household activities anymore. They equally
participate in education, business, political, and social fields. They are accepting new ideas and
rejecting the old and uncommon practices. The concept of equality, freedom, feminism, and
democracy is reflected through their actions and behavior. Marwaris are always moving towards
progress and development since their foundation. Thus, the modern era has given them a
platform to adapt and coexist with new challenges.

5.1.6.3 Religious Marwaris

Culturally, Marwaris are religious people. The ideology of Hinduism shapes them. They believe
in worshipping idols of gods and goddesses, praying, visiting temples, and doing puja. The day
in the life of any individual, Marwari begins with worshipping and praying Gods. Whether it is a
small event or a big festival, remembering and praying to God is very important. Few informants
even believe that they can easily convert Jains to Hindu by practicing their rites and rituals.
Mostly women and older people are more religious than the younger generations. It is also
because Marwari women are given the responsibility of transferring their traditional, cultural,
and religious values to the family members. They are the ones who are regarded as the identity
giver to their society.

5.1.7 Advantages of the Hindu-Jain Practices in Marwari Culture

Marwari culture is unique for the dual practices of Hinduism and Jainism in its culture. It has
created a different identity for Marwaris as compared to other ethnic communities. There is a
vast following of Hinduism by Marwaris. Likewise, few people also practice Jainism side by
side. Some people introduce themselves as Jains, but they cannot keep themselves away from
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Hinduism's practices and belief system in their cultural events. The dual practices of Hinduism
and Jainism have led to reflect their cultural identity in both religion and humanity. The mutual
understanding and respect for both religions symbolize religious harmony, peace, and cohesion.
Hinduism is diverse and open to expect new ideas and ideologies. It also has given a basis for
Marwaris to practice Jainism along with Hinduism. Jainism is generally considered a sister
branch of Hindusim by Marwaris, and hence they do not find any difficulty in practicing the Jain
rituals with their Hindu rituals. Despite the difference in these religions' formation and teachings,
Hinduism and Jainism work as the same coin's sides.
Marwari culture is well known for its diversity and unique features in their religious practices.
The culture is defined by their language, dress, art and craft, food, business, and festivals.
Religion for Marwaris is a part of their culture, which has shaped their ideologies in Hinduism
and Jainism. Whether Hindu or Jain, they speak the same language, wear the same ethnic dress,
share similar art and craft, and think about business. The food taken by Marwaris is strictly
vegetarian. Although Hinduism does not prohibit consuming meat, Marwaris do not tend to eat
meat. The Jain Marwaris even prefer to avoid eating underground vegetables like potatoes,
ginger, garlic etc. to preserve the environment. They also preach about saving the water and
energy for the betterment of the earth and future generations.
The rites of passage; birth, puberty, marriage, and death, also have their significance to the
Marwaris. The circle of life beginning with birth and ending with death, have several religious
and cultural importance to Marwaris. Usually, the birth of a child and marriage is considered
very auspicious and celebrated grandly. Likewise, death is also regarded as a holy phase in an
individual’s life because Marwaris believe in life after death. They also believe in reincarnation.
Besides, they consider puberty as a crucial phase in one’s life. During this time, a person starts to
understand his body and the true meaning of their culture and tradition.
Thus, Marwaris's practices of Hinduism and Jainism have created a different perception of
people towards them. The dual practices of Hinduism and Jainism have several benefits. Some of
them are mentioned below:
I. It helps to create a unique and distinct religious identity.
II. It gives a basis for the existence of peaceful and fruitful religious practices.
III. It contributes to saving the planet, its resources, and humanity.
IV. It gives a broader approach to the historical and mythological background.
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 V. It provides various languages, food, attire, dance, festivals, arts, and crafts.

5.1.8 Disadvantages of the Hindu-Jain Practices in Marwari Culture

The practices of Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari culture has created a different perception
towards them. The people from their community and other ethnic groups view them as a threat to
the ethnicity of the Marwari culture. Initially, the Marwari community was formed with the
beliefs and values of the Hindu traditions. The change in time and continued migration of
Marwaris within the country and even outside has led them to adopt many other communities'
features. The practices of Jainism is also one of its outcomes. Such a dual practice of Hinduism
and Jainism has a different impact on Marwari cultural identity. It can be seen both in their
religious activity as well as humanity. There is no such religious conflict among Hindu Marwaris
and Jain Marwaris; however, it can raise the feeling of minority, hatred, and inferiority.

Hinduism indeed is diverse and accepting of the practices of new rituals, ideas, and ideologies.
Nevertheless, it is also against the dependency of other religions over Hinduism. Both the Hindu
and Jain religions have different approaches to life, and the way of teachings is also varied.
Hinduism is linked to reincarnation, whereas Jainism believes in making the present life better
for both the earth and humanity.

The identity of any group or community is reflected through its culture, and Marwaris are no
different. Their uniqueness in language, dress, art and craft, food, business, and festivals is
highly appreciated. It is recently observed that this community's ethnicity is deteriorating day by
day with evolution and modernization. The food habits of Marwaris are also changing day by
day. Some of them even started consuming meat, whereas few prohibited eating underground
vegetables such as potato, onion, garlic, ginger etc. This has declined in the authenticity of the
Marwari traditions and culture.

Each culture has its set of rituals and practices for the rites of passage. Birth, puberty, marriage,
and death always impact the life of an individual, family, group, community, and country. For
Marwaris, there is a vast significance of the rites of passage in their lives. But, the dual practices
of Hinduism and Jainism have modified the cultural practices of observing and celebrating these
life events. Again, this has hampered the ethnicity of the Marwaris.

76
Hence, there are various disadvantages of practicing two religions in one culture. The Marwari
culture is also facing some challenges regarding the practices of Hinduism and Jainism in their
culture. Few of which are listed below:

I. It leads to fade the authenticity and uniqueness of their cultural identity.

II. It might allow arising conflict, hatred, and bias in their religious practices.
III. It can be a threat to losing the factual historical and mythological background.
IV. It creates numerous things in their languages, food, attire, dance, festivals, art, and crafts.
V. It gives a different approach to religion and humanity.

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6 CHAPTER-VI

Conclusion and Recommendations

6.1.1 My Contribution
With this master’s thesis, I have contributed to the field of migration and gender theory by
traveling to my home country and culture, conducting fieldwork, and interviewing multiple
people of different ages, genders, and backgrounds about a sensitive subject like a mixture of
Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari culture. Out of this fieldwork, I have presented and discussed
my findings concerning the existing literature on the subject. By looking deeper into this
literature, I have gotten myself an overview of the field and found researchers writing about
religion, identity, migration, and gender. I found the places mostly concentrated on and most
sufficiently covered by the Hinduism in Marwari culture to be places where practices of both
Hinduism and Jainism have already increased in numbers. I also focused mostly on social and
economic factors behind the practice of dual religion by Marwaris.
I found it an exciting time to study the capital city of Nepal. I did not found any other researchers
covering the dual practice of Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari culture, yet the majority are
Hindus. Neither the majority nor culture implies people for mixing these religions, but it does
take place. The goal I set forth was first to hear what my interviewees' reasons for the mixture
were. Secondly, it is to discuss these in order to see if they were mostly social or religious and,
lastly, its impact upon them. Doing this, I further investigated my material to see what the dual
practice mentions as their culture's religious aspects. I could see whether commonalities exist
between these aspects that make sense of the religious reasons in a merged pattern. Having this
in mind, I highlighted four different reasons or theories repeating itself in my material about
Hinduism and Jainism, identity, migration, and gender. Finally, I will conclude with to what
extent I find these reasons are important in Marwari culture.

6.1.2 Conclusion
This thesis presents the different and similar perceptions, thinking, behavior, and understanding
of the Marwaris related to their religious and social practices living in Kathmandu, Nepal. It also
involved the rites of passage followed by Marwari in their social and moral surroundings, which
78
determined their Jain-Hindu perspective. The study also included the determinants for the
women’s, priests’ and businessmen’s decisions to prioritize their religion as Jain-Hindu. This
research has made it possible for Marwaris to understand their culture regarding their religion
from migration sincerely. The members are aware of the practices which are responsible for
fusing Jainism and Hinduism.
Religion has its own set of beliefs, but despite its fusing, the religion that is Hinduism and
Jainism have positively impacted their culture. The originality and purity of religion seem to be
not changed or modified as such. They are not able to determine the similarities and differences
of following Hinduism and Jainism in the culture.
In context with their Hindu and Jain practices, the Marwari culture is the main aim of writing this
thesis. The qualitative research method is also used, including the field study, which provides a
deeper understanding of the religious and cultural practices of Hindu and Jain Marwaris living in
Kathmandu, Nepal. The research concerns Marwaris's understanding of Hinduism and Jainism
and what it takes to collaborate these two religions. Their opinions, behaviors, and practices
reflect their social as well as a religious identity. Moreover, their unique culture also presents
their migrant status from India.
Qualitative research has helped in knowing the Marwaris' experience living in Kathmandu,
especially the women, businessmen, and locals, from Kathmandu, who are either Hindu or Jain.
They have mixed up these two religions, responsible events such as marriages, baby shower,
weaning ceremony clearly describes the Hindu beliefs' practice in their cultural aspects.
The social, cultural, religious, and geographical differences create a varied approach in the
behavior and practices amongst the Marwaris informants themselves. According to the
respondents, they are proud of following the oldest religion in the world. For them, Hinduism has
provided them a liberal approach to intake new practices and belief systems because of which
they are incorporating the Jainism practices in a Marwari culture. Even though few people would
disagree with this, the majority believes in each other's co-existence.
In contrast, Jain Marwaris have several challenges and obstacles in maintaining their religious
identity amongst the Hindu Marwaris. Although they share the same culture and nationality, they
have a distinct identity to religion. Regarding the same faith and its followers, there are both Jain
as well as Hindu Marwaris. Moreover, they have established their temples to interact with each
other and express their religious feelings. Mostly, Marwaris in Kathmandu are migrants from
79
 Rajasthan, India but now are identified as Nepalese Marwaris. Their mixed nationality and
religion make them different as well from the indigenous group in Nepal.

6.1.3 The importance of religious practices for Marwaris

Answering the final question – to what extent are these religious practices essential for my
interviewees to mix these religions. I will first and foremost conclude with significant religious
reasons since all thirty-six interviews mention and highlight them independently. I will also
conclude with social aspects being more relevant and prominent than the religious aspects. They
say something about what takes place on a person is inside and because it fills a void and
answers an existential search the person is carrying.  
Based on my material, I conclude by stating that social identity and culture play a vital role in
Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari culture. This thesis has shown that religion, identity,
migration, and gender reasons appear indispensable and prominent to Marwaris in practicing
Hinduism and Jainism. The main idea of this thesis summarises as below:
I. Hindu and Jain religious practices in the rites of passage such as birth, marriage, and
death ceremony are seen in Marwari culture.
II. The mixture of Jainism shows Marwari people using surnames as Jains instead of their
regular Hindu surnames.
III. Marwaris also practices fasts and donations as per the Jainism practices, which they have
adopted as a healthy living.
IV. Women play a vital role in transferring their two ideologies in their family, ultimately
resulting in a mixture of dual religion on a large scale.
V. Migration has helped in the mixture of Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari culture as being
in the minority in Kathmandu; they thought getting mixed would be better. 
VI. People in business use Hinduism and Jainism as tactics to enhance and flourish their
business.
VII. Despite a few differences, Marwaris focus on the dual practices of the religion as a
strength to survive in a new land. 
VIII. The practices of dual religion in Marwari culture has opened doors for improvement and
changes.

80
This research provides the necessary information required to meet the research problem of the
religious contribution of Hindu and Jain Marwaris living in Kathmandu, Nepal. Society is
affected positively or negatively, depending on the actions of any individual. It also concerns the
majority and minority groups of people categorized under different sections. This thesis's main
aim is to provide a deeper understanding of the Marwaris concerning their religion.

81
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 8 Attachments
Information Letter and Consent
Are you interested in taking part in the research project “Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari
Culture: Practices of dual religion”?
This is an inquiry about participation in a research project where the primary purpose is to
determine the actual status of rites of a passage formed with the interaction of Hindu-Jain
Marwaris and to examine the behavior of women for the Hindu-Jain Marwaris. This letter will
give you information about the project's purpose and what your participation will involve.

Purpose of the project

Jainism within Hinduism in Marwari culture is becoming popular day by day. In this concern,
this Master’s thesis attempts to find out the present status of Marwari culture. The study is based
upon the reasons for the necessity and criteria of inclusion of Jainism within Hinduism by
Marwari. For this, the research questions can be listed as below:
I. What are the reasons for the mixture (both Hinduism and Jainism) among Marwaris? Are
these reasons social or religious?
II. What role do Marwari women play in the interaction of Jain- Hindu?
III. How does migration influence their cultural-religious identity?
The collected personal data will only be used for this thesis purpose.

Who is responsible for the research project?

Norwegian School of Theology, Religion and Society is the institution responsible for the
project.

Why are you being asked to participate?

Regarding the sampling respondents, I am focusing on the Hindu-Jain Marwaris, who are living
in Kathmandu. Thus, those who fit in this category are my choice of participants.

What does participation involve for you?

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Personal interviews will be conducted and collected. The information will be recorded
(electronically, on paper, and mobile).
 « If you chose to take part in the project, this will involve that you will be interviewed. It
will take approx. 30 minutes. The interview includes questions about (Hindu-Jain
traditions, rites of passage, women's role, and cultural-religious importance). Your
answers will be recorded electronically, on paper, and on mobile.

Participation is voluntary
Participation in the project is voluntary. If you chose to participate, you could withdraw your
consent at any time without giving a reason. All information about you will then be made
anonymous. There will be no negative consequences for you if you chose not to participate or
later decide to withdraw.

Your privacy – how we will store and use your personal data
We will only use your personal data for the purpose(s) specified in this information letter. We
will process your personal data confidentially and in accordance with data protection legislation
(the General Data Protection Regulation and Personal Data Act).
 Only me and my supervisor from MF Norwegian School of Theology, Religion, and
Society will have access to this information.
 I will restrict the files to ensure that no unauthorized persons can access personal data.
The list of names' contact details and other information will be stored separately from the
rest of the collected data and locked away/encrypted.
 The interviews will be conducted in Kathmandu, Nepal, using the Norwegian School of
Theology, Religion and Society.
 The name, age, occupation, the gender of the participants will be disclosed.

What will happen to your personal data at the end of the research project?
The project is scheduled to end on 16th November 2020. All the data will be erased and deleted at
the end of the project.

Your rights
86
So long as you can be identified in the collected data, you have the right to:
- access the personal data that is being processed about you
- request that your data is deleted
- request that incorrect personal data about you is corrected/rectified
- receive a copy of your data (data portability), and
- send a complaint to the Data Protection Officer or The Norwegian Data Protection
Authority regarding the processing of your data

What gives us the right to process your personal data?

We will process your personal data based on your consent.
Based on an agreement with MF Norwegian School of Theology, Religion and Society, NSD –
The Norwegian Centre for Research Data AS has assessed that the processing of personal data in
this project is under data protection legislation.

Where can I find out more?

If you have questions about the project or want to exercise your rights, contact:
 MF Norwegian School of Theology, Religion and Society via Solvor M. Lauritzen,
Associate Professor in Pedagogy ([email protected]) and Nina Agrawal, student
([email protected]) contact number: Norway +47 48634107 and Nepal+977
9843631166
 Our Data Protection Officer: Moe Lars, IT Director at MF Norwegian School of
Theology, Religion and Society.
 NSD – The Norwegian Centre for Research Data AS, by email:
([email protected]) or by telephone: +47 55 58 21 17.

Yours sincerely,
(Researcher/supervisor)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----
Consent form

87
I have received and understood information about Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari Culture:
Practices of dual religion and have been allowed to ask questions. I give consent:

 to participate in the personal interview.

 for information about me/myself to be published in a way that I can be recognized (i.e.
my name, age, gender, and occupation).
 for my personal data to be stored and deleted after the end of the project.

I give consent for my personal data to be processed until the end date of the project, approx. [16th
November 2020]

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Signed by participant, date)

88
Interview Guide
• Interview Guide from my fieldwork in Nepal May/June and October/ November 2019: (See p.
42-43 to explain the interview guide).

1. Please, tell me about your religious life as a Hindu or Jain.

a. Do you participate in any religious practice?
b. What are the vital things in your life as Marwari?
c. What gave your life meaning with these religious practices?
d. Do you follow any specific God(s)? Who? Why?
Worldview, values, priorities, what gives life meaning

2. Please take some minutes and explain how you practice Hinduism and Jainism in
Marwari culture
a. How does this take place?
b. Was there a memorable incident that led to this?
c. Was it a sudden mixture, or was it a process that took some time?

3. Please tell me about your life as a Hindu/Jain Marwari.

a. Have there been some changes in your life since you practice Jainism in Marwari rituals?
b. If yes, what has changed? What do you think is the most condemnatory change in your life?
c. What are the essential things in your life now compared to before you practice only
Hinduism?
d. How would you describe yourself comparing previous and present situation?
e. Is it essential for you to practice these both religions?
f. Social engagement – As a Hindu or Jain, did you participate in any social work? Did you
think social work was important?
g. Have your approach to religion changed in any way as a Marwari?

4. What does being a Marwari mean to you?

a. What does God mean to you?
b. Does religious practice affect your daily life? If yes, how?

5. Does the caste system mean anything to you?

a. Does your family belong to a caste?
b. In your opinion, how does the caste system affect the social situation in Marwari culture?

6. Have you had any difficulties as an immigrant from India?

a. If yes, tell me more about this…

7. Have you become a Nepali Marwari who had any benefits or social improvements for

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you?
a. If yes, what?

8. Does the Nepalese culture affect your life now? (Are you still holding on to some parts
of the Indian traditional values?)
a. If yes, how/what?
b. Do you still participate in any Rajasthani culture?
c. If no, why?
d. How do you participate in any Hindu festivals or celebrations?
e. Do you regard some Hindu traditions/practices and celebrations as cultural and something as
religious?
f. If yes, what?

9. Do you still believe in reincarnation?

a. If yes, what is your belief?

10. What is the Hindu belief do you think it is vital for the Marwari people?
a. Is it essential for Hindus Marwari to fuse Jains Marwari people to be strong socially and
economically?

11. Have you had any religious experiences of a mixture kind before you knew it was
either Hinduism or Jainism only?
a. If yes, tell me more about this…
b. If no, do you believe in the supernatural?
c. Do you know anyone else that has had this experience?

12. Have you had any extra responsibilities as a woman?

a. If yes, could you please explain more about this?

13. Have you had any extra responsibilities as a business-person?

a. If yes, could you please elaborate on it?

14. What does identity mean for Marwaris?

a. Is it religious?
b. Is it cultural?
c. Is it business?

14. What do you want to do for the dual practice of Hinduism and Jainism in Marwari
culture?
a.Do you wish to continue it or not?

90
91
 Questionnaire Set
ONLY MARWARIS RESIDING IN KATHMANDU VALLEY ARE INCLUDED IN THIS
RESEARCH

Age Sex
1. 20-40 ( ) 3. Male ( )
2. 40-60 ( ) Female ( )

Occupation Religious Faith

Housewife ( ) Hinduism ( )
Businessman/Priests ( ) Jainism ( )

QUESTIONNAIRE FOR INTERVIEW:

1. Strongly Agree 2. Agree 3. Disagree 4. Strongly Disagree

Section 1: Inclusion of Jain/Hindu culture in Marwari

S.N. Questions 1 2 3 4
1. There is the existence of a mixture of Jain/Hindu in the Marwari culture.
2. There is a harmonious relationship between the Jain/Hindu culture among
the Marwaris.

Section 2: Practices of Jain/Hindu culture in Marwari

S.N. Questions 1 2 3 4
1. I believe that both the Jain and Hindu religious ideologies are practices in
the passage of the Marwari community's rituals.
2. I feel Jain/Hindu ritual practices are standard during the childbirth,
marriage, and death rituals.

Section 3:Role of women in the synchronicity of Jain/Hindu culture in Marwari

S.N. Questions 1 2 3 4

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 1. Women play an essential role in shaping and saving the Marwari culture
and Jain/Hinduism's synchrony.
2. Women help in bringing and joining the two beliefs under one roof
among this group.

Section 4: Mythological and historical aspects of Jain/Hindu culture in Marwari

S.N Questions 1 2 3 4
.
1. The Ramayana and the Mahabharat gives a peaceful collaboration of these
two Jain/Hindu religions among Marwaris.
2. There are historical pieces of evidence of the Jain/Hindu culture in the
Marwari group.

Section 5:Other Decision regarding the Marwari culture or Jain/Hindu Religions

S.N Questions 1 2 3 4
.
1. The mixture of the Jain/Hindu religion has helped in saving the Marwari
culture.
2. There is a vast difference between Hinduism and Jainism.

93