Alternate Names: “Manchhi Bhassa” (pej.), “Marchha” (pej.), “Marchha Pahari” (pej.), Rang Po Bhasa, Rangkas, Rangpa, “Tolchha” (pej.)
Dialects: Marchha, Tolchha. A Himalayan language distinct from Tibetan ,.
Genealogy:
Demographics: 7,500 (2001 D. Bradley).
Language Use: Rongpo speakers learn Garhwali simultaneously with Rongpo. Code switching and code mixing are very common. It is uncertain whether stable bilingualism will continue or whether Rongpo will be replaced by Garhwali or Hindi. Home, community. All ages. Also use Garhwali [gbm], Hindi [hin], Kumaoni [kfy].
Language Development: Hindi used for all written communication.
Nation of Origin: India
Other Comments: Many Indo-Aryan loanwords. Grierson and Konow (1901–1929) referred to this as the Garhwal dialect of Tibetan. Ranglo or Rang often used as a cover term for Byangs, Chaudangs, Darma, and Rongpo. Hindu.