An ethnographic approach to ritual ranking among the Satar

Caste is the dominant social system of Nepal. Due to constant interaction between the caste and non-caste people, the hierarchical values of caste system has influenced the behaviour of the non-caste people as well. This paper presents the methodology used in determining the influence of caste hierarchy among the Satar of southern Nepal in defining themselves within the larger Satar group and between the Satar and caste groups. It further examines the implications of such influence on the Satar social system. The preliminary fieldwork was carried out for four months in January - May 1985..