chaupal

noun

1. A village meeting-place, typically an open terrace covered for protection against the sun and rain; the village assembly itself.

   “... generally gather in a chaupal, or clubhouse, with others of their own caste. These are always pucca structures. There is never a mixing of castes in a chaupal except on very special occasions.”

   “Chaupal (Chowpal). A shed in which the village community assemble for public business.”

   “No woman of good character would ever put her foot on the steps of the village chaupal. Women are not expected to play any part in the public affairs or participate in discussions in the village assembly.”

   “Whenever any person is to be reprimanded for the breach of village norms or for committing any serious offence, it is done at the chaupal. Villagers sit at the chaupal, smoke, play cards and do other things.”

   “They often gathered for gossip at a common public place called ‘Chaupal of Hariya.’ Chaupal was the centre point of the village from all directions. Apart from women and children, anyone was welcome to join the chitchat group of Chaupal... At that particular chaupal time, each one sitting there had kept his own viewpoint to narrate Priyamavda's beauty in their own words.”