Uttarakhand, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, is home to several unique tribes, each with its distinct culture, traditions, and heritage. These tribes have enriched the state's diversity and continue to preserve their ancient customs amidst modernization. Here’s an overview of the major tribes of Uttarakhand:
1. Tharu Tribe
The Tharu tribe is the largest in Uttarakhand and resides mainly in Udham Singh Nagar district, particularly in Khatima, Kichha, and Sitarganj areas. Beyond Uttarakhand, they can also be found in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and along Nepal's Mahakali River.
- Physical Features: Short stature, broad facial structure resembling Mongolian features.
- Cultural Highlights:
- Celebrate Holi with the traditional Khichdi Dance.
- Unique practices like Lathmar marriage and feasts.
- Devotees of Hindu gods, offering homemade alcohol as part of rituals.
- Belief: Consider themselves descendants of Maharana Pratap, with some historians tracing their origins to Rajasthan's Thar Desert.
2. Jaunsari Tribe
The second-largest tribe in the state, Jaunsaris, primarily inhabit Dehradun’s Chakrata, Kalsi, Tyuni, and Tehri’s Jaunpur regions.
- Language: Speak Jaunsari, with hints of Devnagri and Himachali dialects.
- Culture:
- Divided into three social classes: Khasas, Artisans, and Harijan Khasas.
- Celebrate unique festivals like Bissu (Baisakhi), Diwai (Diwali), and Nunnai (Janmashtami).
- Claim lineage from the Pandavas.
- Traditional Wear:
- Men: Woolen pajama (Jhango), cap (Diguba).
- Women: Long kurti (Jhaga), outerwear (Cholti).
3. Bhotiya Tribe
Known as semi-nomads, the Bhotiya tribe historically engaged in trade with Tibet and China. They predominantly inhabit border villages in Uttarkashi, Chamoli, and Pithoragarh.
- Physical Features: A mix of Tibetan and Mongolian traits.
- Cultural Practices:
- Devotees of Hindu deities, with some Buddhist influence.
- Celebrate the Kandali Festival every 12 years.
- Traditional Attire:
- Men: Woolen coats (Ranga), caps (Chukuli).
- Women: Long dresses (Chyuma), waist wraps (Jyukh).
4. Boksa Tribe
The Boksa tribe resides mainly in Udham Singh Nagar, Nainital, and parts of Dehradun, with historical roots debated among scholars. Some link them to the Pawar dynasty, while others trace them to Chittor or Marathas.
- Cultural Practices:
- Worship Hindu gods, with special reverence for Chaumunda Devi.
- Men wear dhoti, kurta, and pagri, while women wear lehenga and choli.
- Legacy: The Boksa Council works for the community’s upliftment.
5. Raji Tribe
The smallest tribe, the Raji tribe, resides primarily in Pithoragarh and Champawat districts.
- Cultural Identity:
- Refer to themselves as Hindus and claim Rajput lineage.
- Use a mix of Sanskrit, Tibetan, and Mundari languages.
- Customs:
- Follow unique marriage rituals like Pinttha Sanskar and Palyan marriage, where the groom lives with the bride’s family.
- Allow equal rights for remarriage.
- Traditional Attire:
- Men wear Angrakha and pagri, while women wear lehenga and odhni.
These tribes reflect Uttarakhand’s deep-rooted heritage and the harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. Their customs, beliefs, and festivals form an integral part of the state’s cultural mosaic.
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This entire article was originally written by Deepak Bisht for wegarhwali.com. With his permission, it has been translated into English. If you find any errors, please feel free to let us know. :)