CHAPTER 2
ETHNIC DIVERSITY OF THE INDO-GANGETIC REGION AND CENTRAL INDIA
CONTENTS
2.2 Tribal Population of India
2.3 The Tribes of Central India
ABSTRACT
The Indo-Gangetic region consists mainly with Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab Plains, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar and Plains of West Bengal and Central India consists of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh of Indian states. Except Jharkhand, Rajasthan, Plains of West Bengal, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, the Indo-Gangetic region is very poor in ethnic diversity because some states of Indo-Gangetic region like Haryana, Punjab and Delhi have no tribal communities. Central India is very rich in ethnic diversity because out of Total population (9,81,72,007) of Central India (Chhattisgarh: 25,545,198 and Madhya Pradesh: 72,626,809), 23.57% population (30.6% Chhattisgarh and 21.1% Madhya Pradesh) belongs to various tribal communities. The main tribes of Indo-Gangetic region and Central India are Abujhmaria, Baiga, Bhil, Bharia, Bhattra, Bhilala, Gond, Kol, Korku, Korwa, Oraon, Sahariya Munda, Oraon, Santhal, Meena, Garasia, Dhodia, etc. The details of the each ethnic community are given in this chapter.
2.1 INTRODUCTION
India has over 84.3 million tribal people belonging to 550 communities of 227 ethnic groups as per the classification made by anthropologists on linguistic basis. They inhabit in about 5000 forested villages. Each tribal community has a distinct social and cultural identity of its own and speaks a common dialect. There are about 116 different dialects and 227 subsidiary dialects spoken by tribals of India. With great antiquity the rich and varied culture the colorful traditions of tribals add to the texture and luster of the great civilization and the heritage of India (Pushpangadan and Pradeep, 2008).
India is the land of tribal people. The tribal people of India mostly live in forests, hills, plateaus and naturally isolated regions (Table 2.1) and are differently termed as Adivasi (original settlers), Adim niwasi (oldest ethnological sector of population), Adimjati (primitive caste), Anusuchit Janjati (scheduled tribe) and several names signifying their ecological or economic or historical or cultural characteristic. Among these the most popular is ‘Adivasi,’ while in India constitution name for them is ‘Anusuchit Janjati’ (Scheduled tribe) (Jain, 1981).
Table 2.1 Region Wise Important Tribes of Central India and Indo-Gangetic Region
2.2 TRIBAL POPULATION OF INDIA
India in South East Asian subcontinent is an abode of nearly 2000 ethnic groups of people that includes some 550 tribal communities found inhabited with their language and culture in 30 different States and Union Territories (except Punjab, Haryana, Delhi NCT, Chandigarh UT and Pondicherry UT). As per the census 2011, the tribal population of India is 10, 42,81,034 (i.e., 8.2% of country population). The states and Union territories with tribal population in the descending order can be arranged as follow: Lakshadweep Islands UT (94.8%), Mizoram (94.4%), Nagaland (86.5%), Meghalaya (86.1%), Arunachal Pradesh (68.8%), Dadra Nagar Haveli UT (52.0%), Manipur (35.1%), Sikkim (33.8%), Tripura (31.8%), Chhattisgarh (30.6%), Jharkhand (26.2%), Odisha (22.8%), Madhya Pradesh (21.1%), Gujarat (14.8%), Rajasthan (13.5%), Assam (12.4%), Jammu & Kashmir (11.9%), Goa (10.2%), Maharashtra (9.4%), Andaman & Nicobar Islands UT (7.5%), Andhra Pradesh (7%), Karnataka (7%), Daman & Diu UT (6.3%), West Bengal (5.8%), Himachal Pradesh (5.7%), Uttarakhand (2.9%), Kerala (1.5%), Bihar (1.3%), Tamil Nadu (1.1%) and Uttar Pradesh (0.6%) (Sahoo et al., 2013).
The state wise tribal population of Central India and Indo-Gangetic region is given in Table 2.2.
The Central India consists mainly with states of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh which is very rich in ethnic diversity, Indo-Gangetic region except Jharkhand, Rajasthan, West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh has good ethnic diversity while states of Indo-Gangetic region like Haryana, Punjab and Delhi have no tribal communities. The forests of Indo-Gangetic region and Central India consist mainly of Tropical semi-evergreen forests, Tropical moist deciduous forests, Tropical dry deciduous forests and Tropical thorn forests. Indo-Gangetic region enjoys the widespread Indian monsoon climate with maximum rain falling between the ends of June to September. The average annual rainfall varies from 700 mm to 2000 mm. The maximum temperature recorded highest as 47°C in May and June and minimum sometimes reaching as low as 1°C in December and January.
The various tribal communities inhabit in several states of Central India and Indo-Gangetic region like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Bihar, southern parts of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. The dominant tribes are Abujhmaria, Baiga, Bhil, Bhilala, Gond, Kol, Korku, Korwa, Oraon, Sahariya Munda, Santhal, Meena, Garasia, Dhodia, etc. They inhabit in and around the forest areas and mainly dependent on forest resources for fulfillment of their routine requirements such as for food, medicine, fodder, fiber, hunting and fishing, household and agricultural equipments, etc. Although they mainly depend upon forest resources for their livelihood but apart from local and rural people they also raise domestic animals such as cows, buffaloes, oxen, goats, sheep, hen, dogs, pigs, etc., for milk, agriculture and commercial purposes.
Table 2.2 State Wise Tribal Population of Central India and Indo-Gangetic Region (Census of India, 2011)
2.3 THE TRIBES OF CENTRAL INDIA
The central India, consisting of states of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, is the largest region of India with great physical and ethnic diversity. It is also richest region in mineral and forest wealth. The famous valley of Narmada runs almost through the middle of region flanked by the two great mountains ranges: the Vindhyachal and the Satpuras. This valley has been the home of oldest aboriginal tribes of India, who hunted and fought with axes and stones implements (Russel and Hiralal, 1916; Dube and Bahadur, 1966).
The central India today has the largest tribal population in the country. According to the 2011 census, the total tribal population is about 23,139,686 constituting nearly 23.57% of the central India population. The majority of the tribals live in forest areas. The tribes of Central India belong to the two great stocks—the Kolarian or the Munda and the Dravidian. The Kolarian or the Mundas are known to be the oldest known inhabitants of this country. The main tribes are Bhil, Bhilala, Gond, Kol, Korku, Pardhan, Oraon, Korwa, Kawar, Maria, Muria, Sahariya, etc. A few primitive tribal groups such as Abujhmarhia, Bharia, Pahari Korwa and Sahariya live in the interior of forest with a primitive life-style. Some tribes have taken up settled cultivation in forest villages and countryside. A small number of tribals have migrated to suburban areas and are working in fields, factories and construction projects (Raizada, 1984).
2.3.1 THE MAIN TRIBES MADHYA PRADESH
There are 46 recognized Scheduled Tribes in Madhya Pradesh, India, three of which have been identified as Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PTGs) (formerly known as Special Primitive Tribal Groups). The population of Scheduled Tribals (ST) is 21.1% of the state population (15.31 million out of 72.62 million), according to the 2011 census. Bounded by the Narmada River to the north and the Godavari River to the southeast, tribal people occupy the slopes of the region’s mountains.
The term Scheduled Tribes refers to specific indigenous peoples whose status is acknowledged to by the Constitution of India. The term Adivasi also applies to indigenous peoples of this area.
The diversity in the tribes across the state comes from differences in heredity, lifestyle, cultural traditions, social structure, economic structure, religious beliefs and language and speech. Due to the different linguistic, cultural and geographical environments, the diverse tribal world of Madhya Pradesh has been largely cut off from the mainstream of development.
Madhya Pradesh holds 1st rank among all the States/Union Territories (UTs) in terms of special tribal population and 12th rank in respect of the proportion of ST population to total population.
The main tribal groups in Madhya Pradesh are Gond, Bhil, Baiga, Korku, Bhariya, Halba, Kol, Mariya, and Sahariya. Dhar, Jhabua, and Mandla districts have more than 50% tribal population. Khargone, Chhindwara, Seoni Sidhi and Shahdol districts have 30-50% of the population of tribals. The largest population is that of Bhil tribe. The main tribes and their sub types given in Table 2.3.
According to the 2011 Census of India, Bhil is the most populous tribe with a total population of 4,618,068, constituting 37.7% of the total ST population. Gond is the second largest tribe, with a population of 4,357,918 constituting 35.6%. The next four populous tribes are: Kol, Korku, Sahariya and Baiga. These six tribes constitute 92.2% of the total ST population of the State. Pardhan, Saur and Bharia Bhumia have a population ranging from 105,692 to 2152,472; together, they form 3.2% of state population. Four tribes, namely, Majhi, Khairwar, Mawasi and Panika have populations in the range of 47,806 to 81,335, and account for another 2.2% of the ST population. The remaining 33 tribes (out of the total of 46 tribes) along with the generic tribes constitute the residual 2.5% of total ST population. Tribes having below 1000 population are 12 in number. Bhils have the highest population in Jhabua district, followed by Dhar, Barwani, and Khargone districts. Gonds have major concentrations in Dindori, Chhindwara, Mandla, Betul, Seoni, and Shahdol districts. Other four major groups Kol, Korku, Sahariya and Baiga have registered highest population in Rewa, Khandwa, Shivpuri and Shahdol districts, respectively.
Table 2.3 Tribes and Sub Tribes of Central India
2.3.1.1 Agariya
The Agariya, a small Dravidian tribe, is considered to be an offshoot of the Gond. They by virtue of their occupational specialization as iron smelters and blacksmiths, form a separate sub-tribe. They live primarily in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. Those in the vicinity of Mirzapur were involved in mining and smelting iron during the British Raj. The Agariya speak the Agariya language as well as Hindi and Chhattisgarhi. There is a group known as the Agariya in Gujarat that are salt makers in the desert. It is not clear if these Agariya have any relation to the others. In the early 20th century, the Agariya in Mirzapur were divided into totemic groups. They had been heavily influenced by Hinduism. They called themselves Hindu but did not worship any of the major Hindu deities which other Hindus did. They inhabit mostly in Mandla, Raipur, Bilaspur and Shahdol districts in Central India.
2.3.1.2 Baiga
Baiga is tribe found in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand states of India. The largest number of Baigas is found in Madhya Pradesh. They have sub-castes—Bijhwar, Narotia, Bharotiya, Nahar, Rai Bhaina, and Kadh Bhaina. The Baiga tribe is concentrated mainly in Baiga-chuk in Mandla and Balaghat districts, Rewa and Shahdol districts of Madhya Pradesh and Durg and Bilaspur districts of Chhattisgarh. The Baigas are considered as a branch of the Bhuiyas of Bengal and Bihar having seven sub divisions viz. Binjhwar, Bharotia, Narotia, or Nahar, Raibhaina, Kath Bhaina, Kondwan or Kundi and Gondwaina (Elwin, 1939). Tattooing is an integral part of their lifestyle of Baiga tribe. This tribe inhabits the dense hilly forests in the eastern part of the Satpuras, in Shahdol, Bilaspur, Rajnandgaon, Mandla, and Balaghat districts. The Baigas are of Dravidian stock and are one of eight primitive tribes of Madhya Pradesh. It is believed that this tribe is an offshoot of the Bhuiya tribe of Chhota Nagpur. A distinguishing feature of the Baiga tribe is that their women are famous for sporting tattoos of various kinds on almost all parts of their body. The women who work as tattooing artists belong to the Ojha, Badni and Dewar tribes of Madhya Pradesh and are called Godharins. They are extremely knowledgeable about the different types of tattoos preferred by various tribes. Their mothers traditionally pass on this knowledge to them. Tattooing amongst the tribals commences with the approach of winter and continues until summer. The Baiga takes coarse food and shows no extravagance in this aspect. They eat coarse grain, Kodo, and Kutki, drink Pej, eat little flour and are normally content with what little that they get. One of the prime foods is ‘Pej’ that can be made from grounding Macca (Zea mays) or from the water left from boiling rice. Local people gave testimony that this food is much better and healthier than many other food that they eat. Also, beyond doubt they eat several items from the forest that includes primarily Gular leaves, Chirota, Chinch, Chakora, Sarroota, Peepal, etc. They also eat Birar Kand, Kadukand and other rhizomes. Mushroom is also a delicacy. Numerous fruits such as Mango, Char, Jamun, Tendu are also eaten. They hunt as well, primarily fish and small mammals. Baigas used to practice bewar or shifting cultivation. Inside the Baiga chuk, they are still allowed to pursue their traditional method of shifting cultivation in a restricted manner. Baigas do not use the iron plow share for tilling the land because using it is believed as lacerating “The breast of Mother Earth.” However, they maintain that God made the forests to produce the necessities of life and made the Baigas, the King of Forests, giving them wisdom to discover the things provided for them. Their major implement is the iron axe. Besides primitive cultivation, the Baigas are engaged in making bamboo artifacts. They also collect honey and other forest produce. Jungle fruits and roots are plentiful. The time spent in gathering them is the happiest and most romantic of the Baigas life. The Baigas also go for hunting and fishing. Very apt in the use of bow and arrow, they have an inborn ability for hunting.
2.3.1.3 Bharia
The Bharia is another little known tribe of Madhya Pradesh, is concentrated mainly in the districts of Chhindwara and Jabalpur districts of Madhya Pradesh and Bilaspur of Chhattisgarh. Patalkot is a bowl shaped formation situated on the Satpura plateau in Chhindwara district. The shape of the area is like a horse shoe, surrounded on three sides by hill ridges, locally known as ‘Kamat’. There are 12 villages in the area and almost all the inhabitants belong to Bharia tribe. Bharia is a Dravidian tribe and Bharia of Patalkot is a small group which has been living in this peculiar physiographic formation where they practice shifting cultivation. With the ban on shifting cultivation and dwindling of forests, their economy has been disturbed. They now depend on primitive agriculture, forest animal husbandry and wage labor. Due to the physical barriers, the attendance in school is very thin and the percentage of literacy is very low. As Bharia have lived for generations with the more influential and prosperous Gonds, they have many things common with them.
2.3.1.4 Bhilala
The Bhilala principally inhabits the districts of Dhar, Jhabua and Khargone. They are considered to be a mixed caste born from the alliances between immigrant Rajputs and the Bhils of Madhya Bharat region. Several Bhilala families hold estates in Malwa and Khargone and their chiefs now claim to be pure Rajputs. The Bhilala landlords usually have the title of Rao or Rawat.
2.3.1.5 Bhil
The Bhils are inhabitants of Dhar, Jhabua, Khargone and Ratlam districts of Madhya Pradesh. The Bhil tribe is one of the most important tribe of India. The name has been derived from Dravidian word ‘Bil’ or ‘Vil’ meaning a bow because they always keep bow and arrow for hunting. Bhils are primarily an Adivasi people of North India. Bhils are also settled in the Tharparkar district of Sindh, Pakistan. They speak the Bhil languages, a subgroup of the western zone of the Indo-Aryan languages. According to Census, 2011, Bhils were the largest tribal group in India followed by Gond tribe. Bhils are listed as Adivasi residents of the states of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra and Rajasthan - all in the western Deccan regions and central India as well as in Tripura in far-eastern India, on the border with Bangladesh. Bhils are divided into a number of endogamous territorial divisions, which in turn have a number of clans and lineages. Most Bhils now speak the language of the region they reside in, such as Marathi and Gujarati. They mostly speak a dialect of Hindi. In Gujarat and Maharashtra, the Bhil are now mainly a community of settled farmers, with a significant minority who are landless agricultural laborers. A significant subsidiary occupation remains hunting and gathering. The Bhil are now largely Hindu, with Nidhi and Tadvi Bhil following Islam, and few sub-groups in the Dangs following Christianity. They continue to worship tribal deities such as Mogra Deo and Sitla Matta. The Bhil are classified as a Scheduled Tribe in Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Tripura under the Indian government’s reservation program of positive discrimination. The Bhil are divided into a number of endogamous territorial divisions, which in turn have a number of clans and lineages. The main divisions in Gujarat are the Barda, Dungri Garasia and Vasava. While in Maharashtra, the Bhil Mavchi and Kotwal are their main sub-groups. In Rajasthan, they exist as Bhil Garasia, Dholi Bhil, Dungri Bhil, Dungri Garasia, Mewasi Bhil, Rawal Bhil, Tadvi Bhil, Bhagalia, Bhilala, Pawra, Vasava and Vasave.
2.3.1.6 Gond
The Gonds are a Dravidian people of central India, spread over the states of Madhya Pradesh, eastern Maharashtra (Vidarbha), Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Western Odisha. With eleven million people, they are the second largest tribe in Central India. The Gonds are also known as the Raj Gond. The term was widely used in 1950s, but has now become almost obsolete, probably because of the political eclipse of the Gond Rajas. The Gondi language is closely related to the Telugu, belonging to the Dravidian family of languages. About half of Gonds speak Gondi languages while the rest speak Indo-Aryan languages including Hindi. Scholars believe that Gonds settled in Gondwana, now known as eastern Madhya Pradesh, between the 13th and 19th centuries AD. Muslim writers described a rise of Gond state after the 14th century. Gonds ruled in four kingdoms (Garha-Mandla, Deogarh, Chanda, and Kherla) in central India between the 16th and 18th centuries. They built number of forts, palaces, temples, tanks and lakes during the rule of the Gonds dynasty. The Gondwana kingdom survived till late 16th century. They also gained control over the Malwa after the decline of the Mughals followed by the Marathas in the year 1690. The Maratha power swept into Gondland in the 1740s. The Marathas overthrew Gond Rajas (princes) and seized most of their territory. Some Gond zamindaris (estates) survived until recently. During the British regime in India, Gonds challenged the Britishers in several battles.
2.3.1.7 Kol
The Kol tribe is regarded as a Kolarian or Mundari tribe. The term Kol as generic category occurs in the Sanskrit literature along with Bhil and Kirat. The Kol tribe is concentrated principally in Jabalpur, Rewa, Narsinghpur, Damoh and Satna districts of Madhya Pradesh. They are offshoot of Munda. They practice traditional system of agriculture and grow kodo, barley, maize, bagaridhan as staple food crops. Kols are very fond of Mahua liquor. The Kols are mainly laborers. There are two important divisions of the Kols known as the Raitia and the Rautele.
2.3.1.8 Korku
The Korkus fall in Munda or Kolarian tribal group. The term Korku means group of humans, Kor-Manav and Ku is used for plural. As per the Korku myth, Mahadev sent a crow to fetch Kavi clay from Maalik to the world with it. Mula-Muli was the first human couple created by him, from whom all the tribes originated in course of time. The crow informed Mahadev that the Maalik had given the Kavi maati (clay) on the condition that it would be returned. Mahadev gave an herb also to the crow - one for Mula-Muli and the other for itself. He exchanged the herbs and consumed the herb meant for the humans and gave to human the one meant for it. The herb was Sanjeevani on consuming the Sanjivani herb the crow became immortal, whereas the human and all other creatures dies or are, as required to return to the Malik (God) again and again to return the clay. The Korku houses are built opposite each other in two rows and the Otala or platform decorated with ochre, chalk and yellow clay give a distinct identity to Korku Dhada. On Deepawali night the women of Thathya, that is, Gwala families paint auspicious pictures called Gudaniyan with red clay and chalk on the walls of Korku houses. The Thathya men go door-to-door playing Bhugadu or a long flute and dancing all the night. The Korku women are fond of tattooing. On the forehead a figure resembling English letter M is tattooed and on its upper and lower sides two dots are made which are called Kapar Godai. Dots are also tattooed on the chin, cheek and nose. On the hands-chowk, Rani Godai, etc. are tattooed. In the figures of tribal tattooing the dots often symbolize food grain or fire. Here tattooing is ornamentation of the body and also device to stay disease-free and strong. Tattoos are also created to ensure overflowing granaries in the house. They are concentrated principally in East Nimar, Hosangabad, Betul and Chhindwara districts of Mahakaushal region. The Korku tribe as a whole is usually divided into two groups, Raj Korku and Potharia.
2.3.1.9 Nagarchi
The Nagarch is one of the lesser known tribes of Madhya Pradesh. The tribe is found scattered over a large area in the districts of Chhindwara, Seoni, Balaghat, Mandla and Durg. The Gagarchi is considered to be a branch of the Gond. They are occupational group of musicians.
2.3.1.10 Panika
Panika or Panka is a Hindu caste that is found in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. They were earlier a sub-group of Kotwar which have now got separated. As per the history, their name originated from the word Pankha, which meant hand fan. Historically, the community was involved in fan manufacturing and hence the origin of their name. They were fully involved in the music, dance and party during celebrations like the marriage, Barahon, Ramleela, etc. The Kotwar Panika worked as the watchmen in south eastern areas of Uttar Pradesh. They are usually found in the areas of Mirzapur and Sonbhadra and have now been incorporated into Hinduism. In the olden times, this tribe was known amongst the other tribes for their honesty. However, in the recent times, this characteristic seems to have been disappeared.
2.3.1.11 Pao
The Pao tribe is also known as Pabra. The tribe is found principally in three districts viz. Chharpur, Satna and Shahdol.
2.3.1.12 Pardhan
The Pardhan tribe is considered to be an inferior branch of the Gond tribe and their traditional occupation is to act as the priest and minstrel of the Gonds.
2.3.1.13 Sahariya
The Sahariyas are dispersed in in 21 districts but their largest concentration and their native home is in Gwalior and Chambal divisions of Madhya Pradesh. The Sahariyas are found principally in Shivpuri, Gwalior, Datia and Guna districts of Gwalior division and Sheopur and Bhind district of Chambal division. They are also found in some parts of Bidisha, Raisen and Sehore districts of Madhya Pradesh, Kota and Bundi districts of Rajasthan and Jhansi and Lalitpur districts of Uttar Pradesh. The term Sahariya comprises of two words, for example, Sa means ‘Sahachar’ (Companion) and Haria means ‘Lion’. The term Sahariya indicates that it lives in forest like a lion. The Term Sahariya probably means inhabitants of forests. Even now all adult male Sahariyas always keep axe on their shoulders. Because this tool is of multiple use in thick forest to cut tree, to cut down branches, to takeout the bark, to make wooden tools, to chop-off bamboos for making baskets or any other uses like hunting wild animals and defense, etc. Their economic condition is extremely poor with hardly any regular source of sustenance. They are by and large landless and mostly work as casual laborers. Literacy percentage is very low in this tribe. Generally Sahariyas are of medium statured and dark complexioned. They are very fond of liquor. The Sahariyas men and women along with their children drink liquor. Gudna (inscribing the body with some marks) is a must for all Sahariya women. They believe this ritual to be the highest and permanent ornament of women. These Sahariya women like to inscribe their bodies with tattoos marks through imparting permanent pigmentation on the skin with various designs (Sikarwar, 1997).
2.3.2 TRIBES OF CHHATTISGARH
Chhattisgarh, a state that is at the vanguard of Indian industries and also a repository of minerals has a diverse cultural legacy. Chhattisgarh and tribal culture are two tautological terms since a third of the state’s populace is dominated by tribals. Chhattisgarh, the “rice bowl” of India is famed for its mind-blowing natural splendor, cultural extravaganzas, storehouse of minerals and power and large iron and steel plants. The populace of Chhattisgarh is mainly dominated by tribals, of which the Muria race of aborigines holds special place. The tribes of Chhattisgarh are an unique race who mainly inhabits the dense forests of Bastar. In fact more than 70% of Bastar’s population is composed of tribals who account for 26.76% of Chhattisgarh’s entire tribal populace. The lifestyle of the tribal people is unique and imbibed with traditional rituals and superstitions. They are a friendly and jovial lot who are industrious and diligent. Although shrouded in poverty, they live life to the hilt and love to celebrate every joyous occasion. Food, drink, music, dance, mirth and merriment add color to their otherwise simple lives. The tribal women also love to adorn themselves in ethnic jewelry. One of the Chhattisgarh’s eminent tribes is the Gonds or the Kotoriya tribe. The etymological connotation of their name comes from the Telugu term “Kond” meaning hills. The Gonds dominate most of Chhattisgarh’s tribal population and primarily depend upon agriculture, forestry, cottage industries, hunting and fishing for their subsistence. The talking point of the lifestyle and culture of the Gond tribals is their Ghotul marriage policy, a one of a kind arrangement for conducting the nuptial rituals. Another tribe, the Abuj Maria lives in isolation in the dense and secluded enclaves of the forests of Narayanpur Tehsil in Basir. They are a ferocious and barbaric tribe who believe in primitive customs and are hardly tempted by the material pleasures of life. The main tribes of Chhattisgarh state of Central India are:
2.3.2.1 Abujhmaria
The term ‘Abujhmaria’ is an anthropological make shift and is not the name by which the tribe is known or refers to itself. The Maria live in Abujhmarh region (hence known as Abujhmaria) which extends over Narayanpur, Bijapur and Dantewar districts, but most of the area and population is in Narayanpur district. The area is covered with hills, dales and dense forests.
The forest is rich in flora and fauna. Because of their isolation, the hill Marias has retained most of their religious and cultural traditions. The areas inhabited by the Abhujmaria tribals are a dense forest that sprawls across nearly 1500 miles of lush greenery. They are very much feared by mankind. They are a primitive race whose mannerisms are rather ferocious. The savage and barbaric tribesmen are hostile to strangers and sometimes directly shoot them with their arrows. This hill Maria tribals live in the forest enclosure in a world of their own, completely out of the touch with human society. Money and other material pleasures seldom tempt the people of this race. They are hardly affected by the ravages of time and their recluse lifestyle not only keeps them out of touch with modern civilization, it also helps to preserve their archetypal tradition and customs. In fact the Abhujmaria is one of the few tribes that have many to keep their quintessential culture alive and unaffected by the vestiges of time. The tribal people are scantily clad and simply cover themselves with a loincloth. However, they are very fond of traditional ethnic jewelry and adorn themselves with several iron rings strung around their neck. The women love wearing earring and sometimes pierce as many as 14 holes in their ears and hang two rings or studs from them. The Abhujmaria tribals are more bestial than human in their characteristics. They seldom clean themselves or their garments. They do slash and burn cultivation known as ‘Penda’, ‘Korsa’, ‘Madia’ and other millets which form their staple food are grown in this ‘Penda’. They also have some fields close to the village where paddy is grown. Kitchen gardens for growing tobacco plants and vegetables are invariably attached with all houses. They rear pigs, raise poultry and collect forest produces mainly for their own consumption. Hunting and fishing are also common (Grigson, 1949).
2.3.2.2 Bhaina
The Bhainas are found only in Chhattisgarh. They are concentrated mainly in Bilaspur district and its neighboring areas. The tribe is considered to have a mixed descent from the Baigas and the Kawars. Their connection with the Baigas is shown by the fact that in Mandla. The Baigas have two sub divisions which are known as Rai or Rai-Bhaina and Kath-Bhaina. A Bhaina is also frequently found to be employed as village priest and magician. The Bhainas are also closely connected with the Kawars who still own many large estates north of Bilaspur.
2.3.2.3 Bhattra
The Bhattra tribe found principally in Bastar and south of Raipur district They are cultivators, farm servants and also work as village watchmen
2.3.2.4 Bison Horn Maria
Bison Horn Maria is one of the famous tribal groups of India. Mostly found in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region, they are a major sub-caste of a tribal community called Gond. Apart from the Jagdalpur Tehsil towards the south of the river Indravati in the state of Chhattisgarh, they mainly reside in the district of Garhichiroli in Maharashtra as well as some parts of Madhya Pradesh. Their introvert nature makes them live in isolation in the interiors of dense forest areas of these states. This tribal community of Chhattisgarh derived their name from their unique custom of wearing a distinctive headdress, which resembles the horns of a wild bison. They generally wear that headdress during marriage dances or other ceremonies. This main distinct language spoken by this tribe of Chhattisgarh is Dandami Maria. Some of them even speak mutually unintelligible Gondi dialects, which is an oral language of Dravidian origin. Most the members of this community of Bison Horn follow the traditions and customs of the Hindu religion. Some of them are ethnic religionist though. As per the World Evangelization Research Center’s estimation, about 70% of this tribe is Hindu. Besides worshipping the earth goddess Danteshwari for their retention, Bison Horn Marias worship spirits and non-human objects. Any resource for the religion of Christianity in Dandami Maria language is not available among Bison Horn Maria tribal community. This in turn has made them unaware of this religion. Being followers of the Hindu religion that makes them believe in a super power, this tribe of India believes non-human objects to have spirits. Their religious belief is a combination of Hinduism with animistic beliefs. They worship varied gods. The outskirts of different village are enshrined for the god of that particular clan. Apart from being related to each other, these Clan Gods are supposedly territorial. These Clan Gods are housed on the border of every village so as to protect the village from any external or black magic. Besides this, they even belief in rebirth. This unifying feature makes them check for an identification mark of ancestors in the body of a new born baby to know whose soul has been reincarnated into that baby’s body. The spiritual belief of this tribal group includes sorcery or black magic. Legendary and strange stories about their physical and spiritual powers are quite popular. They attribute any illness to be caused by a negative force manipulated by an enemy. Though medicine people are very powerful, still the villages of this tribe remain constantly concerned about black magic and occult forces. The Bison Horn Maria men have got a distinct hairstyle of long pony tail. Besides that, they carry a tobacco box and a special kind of comb. This comb remains attached to their loincloth. Women of Bison Horn tribal group generally dress in white skirts. They even use varied jewelry for adornment. The bison horn shaped headdress worn by them are nowadays made of cattle horns because of the scarcity of bison horns. Those headdresses are placed on a frame of bamboo and decorated with feathers of peacock or chicken and hanging cowry shell strings. Such a headdress is passed on from one generation to another.
2.3.2.5 Dhurva
Durvas (Paijaas) are the third largest tribal community of Bastar coming next to the Maria and Muria. The Dhurvas are possibly the most significant indigenous tribe that occupies the domicile of Chhattisgarh’s Jagdalpur, Dantewara and Konta. In terms of social hierarchy, the Dhurvas rank second only after the elite Bhatra tribals. The Dhurvas are also recognized by the popular nom de plume Parjaas that locally mean the Public. However, the tribesmen prefer the nomenclature Dhurva that in their native dialect means a local village chieftain. The Dhurvas are a proud, courageous and highly caste conscious race who only mix with people of an equal social standing. Their society is progressive and broadminded and polygamy is a common and accepted practice. The women, who are responsible for all domestic matters are held in high esteem and thus they are very haughty. The men are generally indolent and except for the routine cultivation and hunting, they don’t take much interest in domestic affairs. The Dhurvas depend upon agriculture for their economic subsistence. The tribal people are also talented craftsmen whose expertise is manifested by the exquisite handicrafts that they make out of cane and other forest products. They are highly religious and pious and worship several local cult gods and goddesses. Mirth and merrymaking are an eminent part of all celebrations and no religious celebration is complete without animal sacrifice and coconut is also offered to mollify the deities.
2.3.2.6 Dorla
The Dorlas are found in the southern parts of Bastar. Their territory starts from about 40 km south to Sukma in Konta tesil. The river Kolab or Sabri divides the districts from Orissa, forming the eastern border of the Dorla tract. The Dorla tract extends southwards up to Konta and in the west the Dorlas are distributed over the adjoining tehsil of Bijapur (Dubey, 1970).
2.3.2.7 Gond
Chhattisgarh is a nature lover’s paradise. The state provides a glimpse of central India’s cultural potpourri and of the prevailing lifestyle. The tribes of Chhattisgarh are mostly a primitive race who faithfully follows all traditional customs and their archetypal age-old ritual. The oldest and most populous tribes of Chhattisgarh are the Gonds. The Gonds Tribals, who are also recognized as the Koytorias are widely dispersed throughout the state. However, they mainly predominate the dense forests enclosed in southern Chhattisgarh’s Bastar District that accounts for more than 20% of Chhattisgarh’s population. The three principal sub castes of the aboriginal Gonds are the Dorla, Maria and Muria races. The etymological significance of the term Gond is derived from the Telugu connotation “Kond” meaning hill. The tribal economy is predominantly agrarian. But the poverty stricken people also depend upon forestry, local cottage industries, hunting and fisheries for their economic subsistence. Some of the Gond people are however employed in cushy primary sector jobs as well as other allied industries. The unique and one of a kind Ghotul marriage tradition of the Gonds is renowned all across the world. They mainly practice the traditional Hindu customs and marry within the family in order to preserve the customary completion of the nuptial vows within the family. Of course some of the romantic daredevils choose to elope with their beloved. Gond marriages however are not a bed of roses. Remarriage, widow marriage, divorce and marrying in laws as well as brothers and sisters are a common affair. Gond society is somewhat matriarchal where the groom has to pay a substantial dowry top the bride’s family to pay his due respects.
2.3.2.8 Halba
The Halba tribe is a popular tribe who has happily settled in the bucolic lands of Chhattisgarh. The Halba tribals are widely dispersed all over Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Orissa. One of India’s predominant tribes, the Halba tribals inhabits the districts of Durg, Bastar and Raipur in Chhattisgarh. The mannerisms and lifestyle of the Halbas who inhabit Bastar closely resemble that of their counterpart who resides in Andhra Pradesh’s Warangal District. The Halba tribe owes its nomenclature to the term ‘Hal’ that locally means plowing or farming. This clearly implies the Halbas were primarily farmers although nowadays they are involved in a myriad of professions of their choice. Of all the tribes that occupy Chhattisgarh, the Halbas are possibly the most affluent and progressive lot. They also enjoy the privileged status of a high local caste and hence are deeply revered in the tribal society. The unique individuality of the Halbas is evinced by their apparels, dialects and traditional customs. What add to the diversity of their dialect are the pronounced traces of Oriya, Marathi and Chhattisgarhi languages.
2.3.2.9 Kamar
The Kamars are concentrated principally in the former Zamidaries of Bindranawagarh, Saurmarh and Fingeshwar and in the Wagri and Sihawa tracts in Dhamtari tehsil of Raipur district.
2.3.2.10 Kawar
The Kawar tribe is also called Kanwar and Kaur. The home of the Kawars is the hilly area of Chhattisgarh, north of the Mahanadi in the districts of Bilaspur, Raigarh and Surguja. Their sub-divisions include Cherw, Rautia, Tanwar, Kamalbansi, Paikara, Dudh Kawar, Rathia and Chanti.
2.3.2.11 Khairwar
The Khairwar tribe is also known as Kharwar, Khaira and Khairwa. The tribe is found mainly in the districts of Bilaspur, Surguja districts and parts of Vindhyan region of Madhya Pradesh.
2.3.2.12 Korwa
The Korwa tribe belongs to the Kolarian family. This tribe is concentrated principally in the districts of Bilaspur, Surguja and Raigarh of Chhattisgarh state. The principal sub-divisions of the tribe are the Diharia or Kisan Korwas and the Paharia Korwas (also called Benwaria).
2.3.2.13 Muria
The Murias are one of one of the innumerable tribes that inhabit Chhattisgarh. They are a prominent sub caste of the Gonds who dominate the populace of Chhattisgarh. The Muria tribesmen primarily reside in the dense forest zones of Narayanpur l and Kondagon districts of Chhattisgarh, the home of majority of the tribals. Unlike the primitive social outcasts like the Abhujmaria and Bison Maria tribes who live in isolation in the secluded corners of the jungles. The Murias are more advanced and broadminded and live in the open amidst the vast rolling plains and valleys. The Muria economy is predominantly agrarian. They cultivate rice in plenty. Some Muria tribals also depend up on collecting forest products. The forest products are not only used to make useful products, the edible parts are also consumed by the poverty ridden tribals. In case of illness and maladies they seek the remedial powers of the Mahua plant. The tribals are a highly superstitious lot who believe in worshiping the cult gods and goddesses. The Muria society is devoid of a caste system and the people also practice magic, dark arts and wizardry. Their society is quite progressive and although Ghotul marriages are the common practice, dating and also indulge in free sex (Elvin, 1947).
2.3.2.14 Nagesia
The Nagesia live principally in Surguja and Jaspur districts of Chhattisgarh. The Nagesia is considered to be an offshoot of the Mundas.
2.3.2.15 Oraon
The Oraon are an important Dravidian tribe of Chhattisgarh, is concentrated principally in Raigarh and Surguja districts. They are commonly known as ‘Dhangar’ which means a farm servant. The Oraon call them Kurukh. The primary occupation of the Oraon is agriculture and some of their women make mats and sell them. To most of the Oraon, the economic importance of forest has considerably been reduced due to its extensive destruction. Only those who live near the forests have some degree of dependence upon it.
2.4 THE TRIBES OF JHARKHAND
The Scheduled Tribe (ST) population of Jharkhand State is as per 2001 census 7,087,068 constituting 26.3% of the total population (26,945,829) of the State. Among all Sates and UTs, Jharkhand holds 6th and 10th ranks terms of the ST population and the percentage share of the ST population to the total population of the State, respectively. The state has a total of 30 Scheduled Tribes and all of them have been enumerated at 2001 census. The Scheduled Tribes are primarily rural as 91.7% of them reside in villages. District wise distribution of ST population shows that Gumla district has the highest proportion of STs (68.4%). The STs constitute more than half of the total population in Lohardaga and Pashchimi Singhbhum districts whereas Ranchi and Pakaur districts have 41.8-44.6% tribal population. Kodarma district (0.8%) preceded by Chatra (3.8%) has the lowest proportion of the STs Population. Jharkhand has 32 tribal groups:
The tribes of Jharkhand consist of 32 tribes inhabiting the Jharkhand state in India. The tribes in Jharkhand were originally classified on the basis of their cultural types by the Indian anthropologist, Lalita Prasad Vidyarthi. His classification was as follows:
- Hunter-gatherer type — Birhor, Korwa, Hill Kharia
- Shifting Agriculture — Sauria Paharia
- Simple artisans — Mahli, Lohra, Karmali, Chik Baraik
- Settled agriculturists — Santhal, Munda, Oraon, Ho, Kurmi, Bhumij, etc.
All 32 tribes of Jharkhand are Baiga, Asur, Banjara, Bedia, Bathaudi, Binjhia, Bhumij, Birjia, Birhor, Chick Baraik, Chero, Gorait, Gond, Karmali, Ho, Kharwar, Khond, Kisan, Kharia, Korba, Kora, Mahli, Lohar, Munda, Mal Paharia, Parhaiya, Oraon, Sauria Paharia, Santhal and Savar. Most of the people belonging to different Jharkhand tribes dwell in villages. These villages are grouped into tolas. They live in mud houses, which are devoid of any window. They often adorn the external surface of their houses with paintings. The major food for these tribal people is rice and the flesh of birds and animals.
2.4.1 ASUR
Asur in Jharkhand is one of the thirty major tribes of people who have made the state of Jharkhand their home. The people who belong to this tribe form quite a big part of the total population of the state of Jharkhand. It ranks 21st among all the 30 tribal groups of the state, in terms of population, that is, there are as many as 9 tribal groups in the state that have a smaller population than the Asur of Jharkhand. The people belonging to Asur at Jharkhand stay within houses made of clay. They live in villages that are grouped into different tolas for the convenience of the people. The houses in which the people belonging to Asur tribe live do not have any window. The people love to make their houses look even more beautiful by painting them on their external walls. They thrive mostly on the flesh of animals and birds and rice. The total population of the tribal group of Asur is 7783. The rate of literacy among the people of the state of Jharkhand is not very satisfying. The rate is only 10.62%. Though their total number is not ignorable, the percentage of the total population of the state that they cover is not a massive one. The people who belong to the Asur tribe cover only 0.13% of the total population of the state.
2.4.2 BAIGA
The Baiga is one of the most important tribes in the state of Jharkhand in India. The people who belong to the Baiga tribe of Jharkhand are reportedly least civilized of all the different tribes of the state. The people of the tribe of Baiga in Jharkhand inhabit in a particular district of the state. The name of this district of Jharkhand is the Garwa district. The people who belong to the tribe of Baiga constitute a Kolerian ethnic community. The name of this tribe of Jharkhand has quite a few meanings. One of them is ‘ojha’ or a person who makes medicines. Many of the people who belong to the Baiga tribe make medicines by profession, though their chief traditional occupation has been shifting cultivation
2.4.3 BANJARA
This is another group that stands threatened by rapidly dwindling numbers. Their villages are located near hills and forests. They are skilled weavers and make mats, baskets, trays, brooms, etc. from grass growing wild in the forest. They move residence often and in a group. They also go around villages to sing prayers on the birth of a child. They constitute the ‘smallest’ tribal population in Jharkhand. They use local language. Though smallest in number, the Banjara tribe in Jharkhand is a recognized part of the tribal community. Unlike the Banjara tribe of Rajasthan, the Banjaras of Jharkhand lead a settled life. They generally live in thatched huts with kuchcha walls. Though they remain unperturbed by the modernization around, recent years has seen far reaching changes in the relationship between the Banjaras and the large society. The literacy rate of the Banjaras is about 12.38%. The colorful lives of the Banjaras now has become the source of entertainment to the entire state. Tribal festivals like Sarhul, Tusu and Sohrai are celebrated throughout the state. Banjara music and dances like Chaw, Natua, Ghatwari and Matha now-a-days has become sources of recreation even to the tourists to Jharkhand. They now seem to plan their visit to Jharkhand in the festive seasons of the tribes in Jharkhand.
2.4.4 BIRHOR
The Birhors, though much less in number, are found in Jharkhand. The name Birhor is derived from words ‘bar’ meaning jungle and ‘har’ meaning man and thus the Birhors are forest dwellers in true sense. They are a nomadic community, though the Government tries to settle them. In Jharkhand they are distributed in districts of Ranchi, Gumla and Hazaribagh in Chhotanagpur plateau. Their language is Birhor, which is considered to be an Austro Asiatic language. They also speak Sadri and Hindi. Regarded as landless community, Birhors are mainly gatherers. They are also found engaged in rope-making.
2.4.5 BIRJIA
Birjias of Jharkhand live in triangular or rectangular huts made up of bamboo, wood or mud. The huts of the Birjia tribe, usually, are devoid of windows: the huts have a small gate which is closed with a tati or a mat. The Birjia tribe possesses a patriarchal society: a Birjia family is usually a nuclear family with father as the head of the family. Moreover, the Birjia society is known as a monogamous society, yet the prevalence of bigamy cannot be overruled.
It goes without mention that they have a rural society where agriculture and forests play a vital role in the socio-economic life. Hence, Birjia economy is based on agricultural yields, as well as on hunting, fishing and labor.
2.4.6 CHERO
The Chero are one of the scheduled tribes of Jharkhand. In Jharkhand, Chero dwell in the districts of Ranchi, Santhal Pargana, Latehar and Palamu. Palamu seems to have a larger concentration of the Chero tribe in Jharkhand. Besides, the Chero at Jharkhand are also found in Bhojpur, Gaya, Champaran, Munger, Daltonganj, Patan, Lesliganj, Bhawanathpur, Rohtas, etc. It is noteworthy in this context that the Chero, also known as Cherwas or Cherus, was a martial group that annexed many new territories through war. They are said to be descendants of the Kshatriya lineage known as Chandravanshi.
2.4.7 GOND
On an all India basis the Gonds are the most popular tribal community (with a major part concentrated in Madhya Pradesh). Gond belongs to Palamu, Singhbhum and Ranchi districts. The Gond of Jharkhand, linguistically, belongs to the Dravidian race; but, racially, the Gond at Jharkhand hail from ProtoAustraloid stock. They are usually forest fringe dwellers with strong family kinship based on love and affection. Marriage, birth are happy occasions. Women are the custodians of culture, norms and values in Gond society.
2.4.8 KHARIA
Kharia at Jharkhand belong to the Proto-Australoid group. The Kharia in Jharkhand are said to be the descendants of Nagvanshi Raja and are divided into three major sections namely Dudh Kharia, Dhelki Kharia and Hill Kharia. The Kharia of Jharkhand are one of the most primitive tribes that chiefly depend on the resources obtained from the forests of the territory. The Hill Kharia largely depend on roots, edible herbs, leaves, fruits, seeds, flowers, honey, wax, etc.; the Dhelki Kharia and Dudh Kharia depend on agriculture. The Kharias are basically centered round the hills and plains adjoining the hills. The settlement of the Kharia is dispersed throughout the different districts of Jharkhand. The houses of the Kharias are made up of straw, bamboo, mud, rope, etc. and are generally rectangular in shape. The houses, generally, possess a single room that contains a bedroom, kitchen and bathroom: we can find a cow-shed or pig stay attached to the house.
2.4.9 KHARWAR
Kharwar are found in the Latehar, Lohardaga, Ranchi, Hazaribagh, Chatra, Daltonganj, and Garhwa districts. The Kharwar of Jharkhand is also found in the Rohtasgarh district in Bihar. It is interesting to note that the Kharwar in Jharkhand are a group of traditional people who use the Khair grasses for various purposes. Due to the excessive use of the Khair leaves by them, the Kharwars are named so. A family is the unit of the Kharwar society which is generally nuclear in structure and comprises a husband, wife and their unmarried children because after marriage the children set up their own families. In fact, the concept of the joint family is completely absent from the Kharwar society.
2.4.10 MUNDA
The abode of the members of the extremely cherished Munda tribe is not confined to the borders of the state of Jharkhand. The Munda people have also penetrated into other beleaguering states of Orissa, Chhattisgarh, Bihar and West Bengal. The Mundas are one of the major tribal group of the state. Another Austro-Asiatic race ranked in the third position by way a population in Jharkhand. History suggests that they migrated here from north- western parts. Munda woman are very fond of ornaments. They mostly concentrated in Khunti area of Ranchi district. Their Language is Mundari. But according to some scholars they are basic people of here. In present day maximum numbers of Mundas lived in Ranchi, Gumla, Simdega and Singhbhum. Head of Munda society is called as “Pahan” which is main head of the “Padha Society”. In each religious place worship has done by Pahan. Their main God is “Singbonga”. There are many gotra in munda society - Aaied, Kongadi, Gadi, Kerketta, Terom, Toppo, Dhanbar, Nag, Kachchhap, etc. Marriage between same gotras is not accepted. Their mother tongue is Mundari one of the major Ausro-Asiatic languages of India. They also speak Hindi. The Mundas are divided into totemic clans. They are patrilocal and agriculture is their traditional and primary occupation which they supplement by forest produce. Education has spread among them remarkably and many are employed in private and government organizations. Mundas are mainly nature worshippers. They also worship their ancestors, clans and village deities. Mundari folk songs and music are rich.
The abode of the members of the extremely cherished Munda tribe is not confined to the borders of the state of Jharkhand. The Munda people have also penetrated into other beleaguering states of Orissa, Chhattisgarh, Bihar and West Bengal. As a matter of fact, a handful of the Munda tribals have also been noted to have established their permanent domicile in Bangladesh as well.
The sphere where the Munda in Jharkhand bears a remarkable similitude with its contemporary tribes is mainly concerned with a conspicuous dialect and a unique life-style. This could be vividly illustrated from the fact that the lingo restricted to them is known as ‘Mundari’. The legend that exists behind this extremely coveted and revered language elucidates that Mundari actually belonged to the Austro-Asiatic family of languages (Hoffman, 1950).
2.4.11 ORAON
The Oraons are the second largest tribal community of Jharkhand with over 10 lakh population. Majority of them reside in Ranchi and Hazaribagh areas. They speak ‘Kurukh’ belonging to a sub-group of Dravidian language family. They also speak Hindi and Sadri. The Oraons have several exoramous totemic clans and they use their clan names as surnames. They prefer to live in forest areas, land and forests being their main economic resources. They are mainly settled cultivators but depend on forest produces during the lean months. Educated Oraons are engaged in government and private jobs in large number. They have their own folk songs and folk tales. Both men and women participate in dance during festivals.
2.4.12 SANTHALS
With over 18 lakh population, the Santhals are the largest tribal group in the state, they dominate Jharkhand’s tribal population. Their concentration is mainly in Dumka, Godda, Deoghar, Jamtara and Pakur districts of Santhal Parganas and East and West Singhbhum districts. They have a unique heritage of tradition, surprisingly sophisticated customs and tastes and lifestyles, and the most evocative of folk music, song and dance. Their mother tongue is Santhali, a language of Austro-Asiatic family. The Santhali language is elaborate, structured, richly endowed, with its own, recognized ‘script’, ‘Alchiki’, perhaps unmatched by any other tribal community, anywhere. Most of them also know Hindi or Bengali. The cultural refinement of the Santhals is reflected in their daily affairs - in the design, construction, color combinations, and the cleanliness and order of their homes. The drawings and motifs on the walls and the neatness of their courtyards, will shame many a swank, modern urban home (Boding, 1925).
2.5 TRIBES IN WEST BENGAL
As per the Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order, 1950, the following were listed as scheduled tribes in West Bengal: 1. Asur, 2. Baiga, 3. Badia, Bediya, 4. Bhumji, 5. Bhutia, Sherpa, Toto, Dukpa, Kagatay, Tibetan, Yolmo, 6. Birhor, 7. Biijia, 8. Chakma, 9. Chero, 10. Chik Baraik, 11. Garo, 12. Gond, 13. Gorait, 14. Hajang, 15. Ho, 16. Karmali, 17. Kharwar, 18. Khond, 19. Kisan, 20. Kora, 21. Korwa, 22. Lepcha, 23. Lodha, Kheria, Kharia, 24. Lohara, Lohra, 25. Magh, 26. Mahali, 27. Mahli, 28. Mal Pahariya, 29. Mech, 30. Mru, 31. Munda, 32. Nagesia, 33. Oraon, 34. Parhaiya, 35. Rabha, 36. Santal, 37. Sauria Paharia, 38. Savar, 39. Limbu (Subba), and 40. Tamang.
As per 2011 census scheduled tribes numbering 5,296,953 persons constituted 5.8% of the total population of the state. Santals constitute more than half (51.8%) of the total ST population of the state. Oraons (14%), Mundas (7.8%), Bhumij (7.6%) and Kora (3.2%) are the other major STs having sizeable population. Along with Santal, they constitute nearly 85% of the state’s total ST population. The Lodhas, Mahalis, Bhutias, Bedias, and Savars are the remaining STs, and having population of one% or more. The rest of the STs are very small in population size. More than half of the total ST population of the state is concentrated in Medinipur, Jalpaiguri, Purulia, and Bardhaman districts. Of the remaining districts, Bankura, Malda, Uttar Dinajpur, and Dakshin Dinajpur have sizable ST population.
Table 2.4 ST Population of West Bengal
Tribes of West Bengal have occupied a large section of the total population of West Bengal. West Bengal state is the abode of numerous tribes who reside in the rural parts of the state. Their culture, religion, costumes, tradition have enriched the culture and tradition of West Bengal. Many of these tribes of West Bengal have adapted to diverse religious practices. Among them, Hinduism, with its subdivision of various castes and native tribes, has filled three fourths of the total tribal populace of the West Bengal state. Most of the people of the tribal groups of West Bengal speak in Bengali with their own localized accent. In fact these tribes are quite proud of their enriched culture and language. Variant dialects are also equally popular amongst these tribes of West Bengal. They are, in general, confined to the rural belt of the state. However, a small portion of this population has now moved to the urban belt, in search for employment and a better lifestyle.
2.5.1 ORAON
Oraon tribes of West Bengal are one of the biggest tribes in the whole of south Asia. These Oraon tribes converse with each other in Kurukh, a popular language belonging to the Dravidian family. Most of the Oraon tribal communities have taken up the profession of cultivation. Traditionally, Oraons depended on the forest and farms for their ritual and economic livelihood, but in recent times, a few of them have become mainly settled agriculturalists. Small numbers of Oraons have migrated to the northeastern part of India.
2.5.2 MUNDA
Munda tribes are one of the largest tribes of India. Main languages spoken by these tribes include ‘Munda’ or ‘Killi’, Santali and Mundari. These Munda tribes are pious and religious minded, and mainly practice Hinduism.
The tribes of West Bengal are mostly farmers but many of them are engaged in some other occupations like carpentry, weaving, hunting, fishing, etc. Rice is the staple food of the tribal people of Bengal and sometimes they include fish, meat, chicken and fowls in their diet. Some of the tribes are adept in art and craft and their created items give evidence to the exclusive tribal arts. Tribes of West Bengal are famous all over the world for its proficiency in art and crafts. They are truly skilled in creating splendors to its out- standing works on carpentry, terracotta, drawings, and textile. Earthenware, brass and copper ware, needle works, wall-hanging, hand looms, fine muslin and silk clothes, wood statues, cane works, etc. are a couple of examples of handcrafts which have developed from the villages households of these tribes of West Bengal. Maximum of these craft products embellish the cottage industry of the state and have been spine of the economy of the rural provinces of the West Bengal state.
2.6 TRIBES OF RAJASTHAN
Rajasthan is home to various tribes who have very interesting history of origin, customs and social practices. Rajasthan tribals constitute around twelve percent of the total population of the state. The tribes of Rajasthan, India constitutes of mainly Bhils and the Minas. In fact, they were the original inhabitants of the area where Rajasthan stands now. Apart from these main tribes, there are also a number of smaller tribes in Rajasthan. However, all Rajasthan tribes share certain common traits, the variations being in their costumes, jewelry, fair and festivals, etc. The various tribes of Rajasthan are given in the following sub-sections.
2.6.1 BHILS
Bhills are the bow men of Rajasthan. The Bhils comprise of 39% of Rajasthan’s tribal population and form an important group in the southern part of the state around Dungarpur, Udaipur and Chittorgarh. Their population dominated in the Banswara. Bhils are believed to be fine archers. The generic term derives from Bil (Bow) which describes their original talent and strength. Infect, Bhil bowmen even found a reference in the great Hindu epics Mahabharata and Ramayana. The Bhils were originally food gatherers. However, with the passage of time, they have taken up small-scale agriculture, city residence and employment. The major festivals of Bhils are the Baneshwar fair (held near Dungarpur) and Holi.
2.6.2 BISHNOIS
The Bishnoi community of Rajasthan have been identified as conservators. The Bishnois can be mostly seen in the western Rajasthan, especially in the Jodhpur and Bikaner areas. The Bishnois were the followers of the 15th century saint Guru Jambeshwar who due to a prolonged period of drought bade all his followers to protect all animal and plant life, since it seemed the only way to nurture nature. Ever since, their sanctity has extended to all trees and animals, and they do not allow either felling or hunting on their lands. They also believe that in their afterlife they will be reincarnated as deer, due to this the herds of deer can be seen roaming in their fields without fear. The Bishnois men are distinguished by their large white, turbans, while the women wear earth colors and have particularly ostentatious nose ring that establishes their identity. Cattle rearing and agriculture are their main occupation.
2.6.3 MINAS
Minas is the second largest tribal community of Rajasthan. It seems that the Minas may have been the original inhabitants of the Indus Valley civilization. They are militant defenders of Rajasthan. Minas have a tall, athletic build with sharp features, large eyes, thick lips and a light brown complexion. They are found dominating the regions of Shekhawati and eastern Rajasthan. Minas solemnize marriage in the younger years of the children.
2.6.4 GADULIYA LOHARS
Lohars are the nomadic blacksmiths of Rajasthan. The Gaduliya Lohars receives their name from their beautiful bullock carts (Gadis). These nomadic blacksmiths are said to have wandered from their homeland Mewar because of a pledge made to their acknowledged Lord Maharana Pratap. He was ousted from Chittorgarh by the Mughal emperor Akbar and The Gaduliya Lohars, a clan of warring Rajputs, vowed to re-enter the city only after the victory of Maharana Pratap.
2.6.5 GARASIAS
Garasias are the fallen Rajputs of Rajasthan and comprises only 2.7% of the Rajasthan tribals. These tribals have an interesting customs of marriage through elopement which usually take place at the annual Gaur fair held during the full moon of March. They inhabit mainly in Abu Road area of southern Rajasthan.
2.6.6 SAHARIYAS
Sahariyas, the jungle dwellers, is considered as the most backward tribe in Rajasthan and their name possibly derives from the Persian ‘Sehr’ (Jungle). The Sahariyas believed to be of Bhil origin, they inhabit the areas of Kota, Dungarpur and Sawai Madhopur in the southeast of Rajasthan. They are simple, illiterate and open to exploitation. Their main occupations include working as shifting cultivators, hunters and fishermen.
2.6.7 DAMORS
Belonging to the Dungarpur and Udaipur districts, Damors are mainly cultivators and manual laborers.
Rajasthan tribes also include the following: Meo and Banjara (the traveling tribes), Kathodi (found in Mewar region), Rabaris (cattle breeders, found in Marwar region), Sansi, Kanjar, Bhagalia, Bhil Gametia, Bhil Garasia, Bhil Kataria, Bhil Mama, Bhil Meena, Bhil people, Bhilala, Damor, Dhanka, Dholi Bhil, Dungri Bhil, Dungri Garasia, Garasia, Mewasi Bhil, Rawal Bhil, Tadvi Bhil and Vasava.
2.7 TRIBES OF BIHAR
The Scheduled Tribe (ST) population in the State of Bihar is 103,804,637 as per 2011 census, constituting 1.9% of the total population (1,336,573) of the State. The State has a total of twenty nine (29) Scheduled Tribes and all of them have been enumerated at 2011 census. The Scheduled Tribes are over- whelmingly rural as 94.6% of them reside in villages. District wise distribution of ST population shows that Katihar district has the highest proportion of STs (5.9%) followed by Jamui (4.8%), Banka (4.7%) and Purnia (4.4%). Sheohar district has the lowest proportion of the STs (0.01%), preceded by Darbhanga and Khagaria (0.03% each).
Bihar is home to a multitude of tribes that constitute the major chunk of social and culture map of Bihar. Before the year 2000, the number was even higher. But after the segregation of Jharkhand state, most of the tribes have moved to the Jharkhand. Most important and biggest of them all was the Santhal tribe. Their way of living is totally different from each other which make it a great experience to know each one of them. Most of them possibly migrated from Sub-Himalayan region. Like everywhere, tribals in Bihar as well earn their living from agriculture, including shifting cultivation and small cottage industries. Visiting one of their villages is truly an eye opening. Their houses are mud thatched with baked tiles for roofs. Most of the homes have their own gardens and farms from where the people obtain vegetables and necessary cereals. One can get to see a part of their culture and traditions on the walls of the houses itself. They are painted with different kinds of artwork and images. Every tribe has their own rituals, dances, festivals and music witnessing which helps understand and enjoy their culture better.
2.7.1 BATHUDI
Bathudi Tribe is among the most important tribes left in Bihar. They are the most colorful and artistic of all tribes in the state. Their homes which are ordinary mud thatched houses are made extraordinary with some exquisite multi colored flowery designs. The dressing style is also different from other with men usually preferring coarse dhoti of cotton and women choosing saris of different colors. Silver ornaments are also a must for Bathudi women. You will find most of the women sporting floral tattoos on their forehead or arms, which is a ritual of the tribe. The Bathudi people call this tattooing as Khada. The people of Bathudi tribe are mostly all Hindus and worship Hindu Gods and Goddesses. The common language spoken by Bathudi people is Bihari.
2.7.2 BINJHIA
The Binjhia tribe is known for their rich culture and heritage. You will find this tribe mostly residing near forests and hilly areas. Anthropologists consider Binjhia tribe to be the most advanced of all. It is evident from their homes which are built using tiles, wood, bamboo and are nicely and spaciously designed. Even the social structure is nicely laid out. A normal family consists of father, mother and their unmarried children. Father is the head of the family. Monogamy is more prevalent with widow remarriage being allowed. Binjhia tribe men wear dhoti, kurta, and ganji where as women dress up in sari, saya and blouse. Women also prefer wearing ornaments while going out.
2.7.3 BIRJIA
Birjia is one of the largest tribes in Bihar today. Earlier they were mainly resident of hilly areas but because of difficulties in agriculture, they moved down to plains. Most of the Birjia people are farmers and only few of them indulged in occupations like gathering, hunting, fishing, basketry, and working as daily labors. Their social structure is also similar to others with father being the head of the family and the main decision maker. Most of the Birjia tribe people practice Hinduism and worship Hindu Gods and Goddesses. Birjia folks also worship ancestral spirits for peace and prosperity.
2.7.4 CHIK BARAIK
Chik Baraik tribe is mainly found in the rural parts of Bihar. The most peculiar feature of this tribe is that you will not find any village or premises dedicated to them alone. They are considered very friendly and share space with other tribes. Chik Baraik is famous as a tribe of artists. They are involved in making cotton threads and cotton clothes. They also work as weavers, bird trappers, farmers and daily labors. The languages spoken by Chik Baraik people include Mundari, Sadani and Hindi.
2.7.5 KHOND
Khond tribes of Bihar are basically of Proto-australoid race and are considered as one ofthe scheduled tribes. Jharkhand, Singbhum, Hazaribagh are the abode of this tribal community. As per the history, the Khond tribe is migrated from Orissa and is one of the major tribes of India. This tribal community linguistically belongs to Austro-Asiatic family. Their language is known as ‘Kuvi’ and is a type of Dravidian language. Khonds, also known as Kandhs, are an aboriginal tribe. They are divided in groups like hill Khonds or Kutia and plain-dwelling Khonds. They know the use of medicinal plants and treat diseases with the plants. The Khonds are a group of people who are tall and have some features of Aryan. They are considered as mixed Dravidian race. Khonds are divided in clans like Hansa, Beck, Hembram, Bedia, etc. The costumes of the male Khonds include dhoti, ganji and Shirt. The costumes of the women include saree and salwar kamiz dupatta. Ornaments play a major part in the costumes of the Khond women. They prefer to wear ornaments in neck, ear, finger, hair, nose, wrist and feet. The ornaments are basically made of bronze, shell, gold, brass, steel, nickel, seeds, thread, and gold and brass imitation. The Khonds follow animistic religion and they worship almost eighty-three gods. Some are also followers of Hinduism and Christianity. The name of their main deity is Sing Bonga. Their local deities are Thakur Dei, Thakur Deo, Burha Dei, Burha Deo, Borang Buru, Bhagbonga, and Tila bonga. Apart from worshipping their local deities, the Khonds worship god- dess Durga, Bhagwati, goddess Lakshmi, Lord Shiva.
2.7.6 PAHARI KORWA
Pahari Korwa tribe occupies a major part of Bihar. The people of Pahari Korwa tribes practice cultivation, thereby, producing various crops. According to researches, these tribes belong to the Austro-Asiatic family group. If one divides the whole of the Pahari Korwa tribal community, one can find that there are two sub tribes, popularly known as Pahari Korwa and Dihari Korwa. The anthropologists have given a vivid description of their physical stature and form. According to them, these Paharia Korwa tribes have got medium to short height and have a dark brown or black skin. The society of the Paharia Korwa tribes is further segregated into 5 ‘totamistic clans’, namely, Hansadwar, Samar, Edigwar, Ginnur and Renla. It has a rich heritage of culture and tradition, as depicted in their fairs, festivals, music and dancing forms. The villages that these Paharia Korwa tribes built are usually selected on the top of the hill. Sometimes they are being constructed in the fringes of the forest areas. Most of the families of Paharia Korwa follow the nuclear family structure. Just like any other tribal communities of Indian subcontinent, the religious practices of these Paharia Korwa is restricted to ancestral worship and to the worship of a handful of gods and deities.
2.7.7 SANTAL
Santal tribes reside in the serene regions of Singhbhum, Hazaribagh, Santhal Pragana, Giridih, Dhanbad, Ranchi and Bhagalpur, Purnea, Sharsha and Munger in Bihar.
Though a large part of tribal population has come under the state of Jharkhand, Bihar still boosts of most socially advanced and culturally rich tribes. Visit Bihar to witness a unique world of these tribes, uninfluenced by the outside ways and teaching us a lesson or two in how to live peacefully with the nature.
The most important festival for the tribes of Bihar is Sarhul, which commemorates the blossoming of Sal trees. Each and every tribal communities of Bihar fete this festival in the early days of spring time. Sal trees are worshipped in the sacred orchard. Different tribes have different ways of feting this festival. However, each one of these tribes of Bihar worships the ‘spirit’ of the Sal tree to try to find its blessings for a good harvesting.
Just like any other tribes, most of these tribes of Bihar practice cultivation including shifting cultivation. The most significant crop of these tribes of Bihar is paddy. On a daily basis, the meal of these tribes comprises of boiled cereals, millets. Amongst the delicacies include a curry of boiled vegetables or meat or any of the edible roots, and tubers nicely seasoned with salt and chilies. What is quite interesting to note is that milk and all the milk products are entirely missing from the menu of these tribes of Bihar. Marriage is also an important institution amongst all the tribes of Bihar state. Special rituals are feted. As soon as a child is born, he is in the beginning given a sip of milk of the goat before he is allowed to suck the mother’s milk. Taboo is that goat’s milk is never savored afterwards, as they thought that it is going to make the child quite argumentative. Religious nature of these tribes of Bihar is best reflected in the fact that there are diverse gods and goddesses, varying both in number and strength. For example, the Ho tribes have the tradition of appeasing only two village deities. These are namely, Desauli and Jahira Buru. According to the eminent anthropologists, some of these tribes of Bihar worship as many as 10 to 12 deities throughout the year. Invocation of spirits too is a popular phenomenon. However, most of the tribes revere the Singh Bonga as the Supreme Being.
2.8 TRIBES OF UTTAR PRADESH
2.8.1 AGARIYA
One of the Scheduled Tribes of India is the Agariya people who live primarily in the Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh states of India. During the years of the British rule, the ones who lived in and around Mirzapur were involved in the mining of iron. The languages that are spoken by the people of this tribe are Hindi, Agariya language and Chhattisgarhi.
2.8.2 KOL
Kols are mainly found in the Allahabad, Varanasi, Banda and Mirzapur districts, the Kol is the largest tribe in Uttar Pradesh. As stated in the history, this community migrated from the central parts of India almost five centuries ago. They are one of the Scheduled Castes available in UP. Divided into exogamous clans like Monasi, Rautia, Thaluria, Rojaboria, Bhil, Barawire, and Chero, they are followers of Hinduism and speak in Baghelkhandi dialect. Most of them do not have any land and depend upon the forest for the income. The leaves and firewood is collected by them and sold at the local markets.
2.8.3 KORWA
The Korwas, a Scheduled Tribe found in the Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Uttar Pradesh is economically and socially poor community. They receive many facilities from the Indian Government for their upliftment. In UP, the community is divided into four sub-groups, Dam Korwa, Agaria Korwa, Pahar Korwa and Dih Korwa who are further divided into Guleria, Huhar, Haril, Leth, Mura, Munda and Pahari. They are isolated tribes and most of them are hunter gatherers. A few of them practice settled agriculture and are a part of the Hindu community. However, they worship their own tribal deity, Dih. Each settlement has a shrine of Goddess known as Diwar. Korwa people communicate in their mother tongue Korwa which is also known as Singli and Ernga alternatively. As a second language, Korwa people speak Chhattisgarhi and Sadri too.
2.8.4 SAHARIYA
These are the Scheduled Caste that is found in the Bundelkhand region. They are also referred to as the Banrawat, Rawat, Soarain and Banrakha. The name Sahariya originated from the Hindi word sahra which means the jungle. And, thus, Sahariya means the dwellers of the jungle. Many claim to have descended from Baiju Bhil, the worshipped or Shiva, the Hindu God and others trace the origin from Ramayana’s Shabri. The division of the community is done in various gotras naming Lodhi, Sanauna, Solanki, Bagolia and more. The traditional occupation of the Sahariya community includes collecting honey, wood cutting, mining, making basket, breaking stones, etc. as they are majorly dependent upon the forests for their livelihood. Essentially followers of Hinduism, the Sahariyas also have numerous deities such as Gond Devi, Bhavani, Bijasur and Soorin.
2.8.5 THARU
Tharu tribe claim themselves to be the descendants of Ranas of Chittor. Dangurias are the dominant group of Gonda and Bahraich regions. The origin of this Tharu tribal community has got an important history to bank upon. After being thrown from the original homeland, they migrated to several other places including that of the state of Kerala. Thus as a natural consequence these Tharu tribes were displaced off their fertile lands and started working as bonded laborers in the fields of some of the affluent land employers. Tharu is considered as the biggest, traditional and primitive tribes in Uttar Pradesh. This tribe has mongoloid affinity. They are meat eaters and are also fond of liquor. Tharu society is patriarchal in nature. However, the women play a dominant role. They prefer joint family system. This tribe has strong traditional Panchayat organization in order to settle their disputes.
Divorce requires a social approval. They follow a monogamous marriage. As far as occupation of Tharu tribal community is concerned, they have tried their hands in practicing cultivation. They produce crops like barley, wheat, maize, and rice. They are also fond of rearing animals. Chickens, ducks, pigs, and goats are some of the common animals usually found in almost each and every household of Tharu village. Since several rivers flow through the region many of them have turned into fishermen. They have also adapted to the profession of hawkers. Agriculture is the main occupation of the Tharus. They are also experts in cattle herding, piggery and poultry. They are also engaged in carpentry, masonry, weaving and basketry.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The author is grateful to the Organizing Secretary, Deendayal Research Institute, Chitrakoot for the support in various ways.
KEYWORDS
- Bhumij
- Ethnic communities
- Indo-Gangetic region and Central India
- Kora
- Munda
- Oraon
- Santal
REFERENCES
Boding, P. O. (1925). The Santhal Medicine. Asiatic Society of Bengal.
Dube, B. K., & Bahadur, F. (1966). A study of the Tribal People and Tribal Areas of Madhya Pradesh. Tribal Research and Development Institute, Bhopal.
Dubey, K. C. (1970). The Dorlas of Bhopalpattam, Bastar District. Bull. Tribal Res. Dev. Inst. Bhopal , 8 , 1–12.
Elvin, V. (1939). The Baigas. Gyan Books Pvt. Ltd, New Delhi.
Elvin, V. (1947). Maria and their Ghotul. Oxford University Press, Bombay.
Grigson, W. (1949). The Maria Gond of Bastar. Oxford University Press, London.
Hoffman, J. H. (1950). Encyclopedia Mundarica. Government of Bihar.
Jain, S. K. (1981). Observations on Ethnobotany of the Tribals of Central India. In S. K.Jain (Ed.), Glimpses of Indian Ethnobotany. Oxford & IBH Publishing Co., New Delhi.
Pushpangadan, P. & Pradeep, P. R. J. (2008). A Glimpse at Tribal India: An Ethnobotanical Enquiry. Amity Institute for Herbal and Biotech Products Development, Peroorkada, Thiruvananthapuram.
Raizada, A. (1984). Tribal Development of in Madhya Pradesh-A Planning Perspective. Inter India Publication, New Delhi.
Russel, R. V., & HiraLal (1919). The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India (Vols. 1-4). Cosmo Publication, New Delhi.
Sahoo, A. K., Pal, D. C., & Goel, A. K. (2013). A glimpse of the tribal and ethnobotanical diversity in India. Ethnobotany , 25 , 47–55.
Sikarwar, R. L. S. (1997). Ethnobotany of Sahariya Tribe. Madhya Pradesh. Applied Botany Abstracts , 17 (2), 129–140.