People and Tribes Of Rajasthan

The population of Rajasthan is divided into many castes and sub-castes. Rajasthan is known as the land of Rajputs who fought great battles in the past. They were the former rulers of this princely state. Majority of the population of Rajasthan belongs to several Rajput clans who were known for their bravery. Rajput clan consists of Sisodias, Rathors, Chauhans, Kachawahas, Bhattis, Panwars and Solankis. There are also Musalman Rajputs.

Kayasthas, Khatris, Orwals, Mohnots, Bhandaris, Singhis, Lodhas and Mohatas are the eight communities of Rajasthan which are grouped under 'writers and chroniclers'. Their main occupation is trade, business and administration. Dholi, Dhadhi, Hinjara, Jagri-Patur, Bhagtan, Kalawat and Bhand are the other communities belonging to the 'Minstrels and Instrument Players' group. The Hinjaras, Kalawats and Bhands from the above category are purely involved in entertainment.

The artisan community is a huge one encompassing carpenters, barbers, tailors, black-smith, utensil makers, cloth-printers, dyers and tiers, patwaris, weavers, washer men, potters, cobblers sweepers, stone-dressers, nats, sansis and badris.The other castes are Brahmins, Vaishya, Jat, Gujar, Mali, Kalvi.

Tribes

The tribal communities of Rajasthan consist of nearly 12% of the total population. Bhils and Minas are the most pronounced scheduled tribes of Rajasthan. Foothills of Vindhya, Aravali are dotted with several communities of the tribes. Bhils mainly reside in the districts of Udaipur and the Minas occupy the districts of Jaipur, Madhopur and Udaipur. Garasias and Sahrias are the other scheduled tribes spread over in the Sirohi and Kota district. Agriculture is the main source of livelihood for the tribes. Some of the tribes are also involved in business.

Hinduism is followed by most of the tribal people. Some also follow Sikhism. A few tribal communities have started showing inclination towards Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, and Parsi religions. Music and dance are the areas these tribal people are perfect at. They are invited by rich people for performances during the celebrations.

Whether it is the Rajput clan or the people of the Bhils tribe every community has contributed to the richness of Rajasthan culture.