The Brokpa people are known for their distinctive appearance: high cheekbones, tall stature, deep brown or hazel eyes, fair skin, and, in some cases, blond hair. According to local legend, they are descended from soldiers left behind by Alexander the Great. Because of this, they have sometimes been described as one of the last surviving “Aryan” communities. Their long isolation has helped preserve many features associated with their ancestors.

The Brokpa regard mountains, rivers, trees, flowing water, and flowers as pure. Every household grows flowers, and both men and women like to adorn their traditional tepi headdresses with fresh flowers, berries, and leaves. Brokpa women often braid their hair and decorate it with pearls and beads. They also weave woolen clothing with beautiful embroidered patterns. Their cloaks may be decorated with medals, buttons, coins, bones, and badges, all of which symbolize status and cultural pride.

Minaro is the traditional religion of the Brokpa. It centers on the worship of celestial bodies such as the sun and stars, and holds that all things have spirits. Today, however, most Brokpa follow Tibetan Buddhism. In their mountain villages in Ladakh, many small temples can be found. As people pass by, they turn prayer wheels; across the mountains and bridges, brightly colored prayer flags flutter in the wind.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, the Brokpa people love flowers. May they hear the words of Scripture: that the lilies of the field grow without laboring or spinning. As they marvel at the beauty of creation, may they trace all things back to You, the source of all creation. Scripture also says that the grass of the field is here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, yet God still clothes it with such beauty. May the Brokpa give thanks for all that God has richly given them, and may they come to know that God has prepared Jesus Christ for them. May they receive Jesus and join all peoples in praising God. In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.