Ancient Roots: The Tribes of Rajasthan

Phase 1: Demographic Distribution

Rajasthan has several major tribes, primarily settled in the Southern and Western regions.

1. Meena (The Largest Tribe)

• Claim descent from Matsya Avatar.
• Settled mostly in Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, and Alwar.

2. Bhils (The Bow-men)

• Second largest tribe. Famous for bravery.
• Slogan: Fayre-Fayre (War cry).
• Fair: Baneshwar Fair (Dungarpur) - The Kumbh of Adivasis.

3. Garasia (Sirohi Area)

• Famous for community living. Their cooperative society is called Helru.

4. Sahariya (Baran Area)

• Only tribe of Rajasthan included in the Primitive Tribal Group (PTG) by GOI.

Phase 2: Tribal Customs

1. Nata Pratha

• Remarriage or living together without formal wedding.

2. Mautana

• Compensation taken for accidental death.

3. Bhil Dances

• Gauri, Nezā, Yuddh.

[!TIP]
Baneshwar: This is a fair held at the confluence of three rivers: Som, Mahi, and Jakham.