Peoples and Tribes of Rajasthan

Rajasthan, the Land of Maharajahs has history dating back to Puranic times. As such, Rajasthan's people are an amalgamation of diverse ethnicity and religions, all living in peaceful coexistence. Each contributes to the state's rich heritage, cuisine, dress, culture, religious beliefs, ritual practices and life style in their own special way, making the State of Rajasthan the tourist's delight that it is.

Ethnicity: Although Rajasthan is known for Rajputs, the warrior community, numerous other clans, castes and sub castes inhabit the state. Rajputs are believed to be of Scythian origin, having originated from Iran and Caucasia in central Eurasia and then moved to the south of the Himalayas. The sub - categories among Rajputs are Sisodias, Rathors, Chauhans, Kachawahas, Bhattis, Panwars and Solankis. There are also Muslim Rajputs.

Brahmins, Ksatriyas, Vaishya and the artisans or laborers, as defined by the Hindu caste system have all made a home in Rajasthan.

Tribes inhabiting Rajasthan include Bhils, Minas, Lohars, Garasias and Sahariyas. The Bhils were known for their allegiance to the throne of Udaipur and are skilled in guerilla warfare. The Minas or Meenas, a tribe of the proto-dravidian descent, inhabit the southwest of Rajasthan and areas around Jaipur, Sawai- Madhopur, Alwar and Udaipur. They are believed to be original natives of the Indus valley region before the onset of Aryan influx. Lohars or the Gadulia Lohars are wanderers or nomads from Udaipur region. They became famous due to their allegiance to Maharana Pratap of Chittorgarh. The Garasias tribe is believed to be descendent of Chauhan Rajputs and has made Mt. Abu and Kotra in Udaipur its home. The Sahariyas live in the jungles of Shahbad, Jhalawar, Sawai Madhopur, Dungarpur and Udaipur. Essentially Hindus, they worship the Hindu deities. The Rabari or Raika are shepherds and manage cattle. They have two sub sects- the Marus who tend to camels and Chalkias who look after and breed sheep and goats. The nomadic Meo and the Banjara and the Sansi and Kanjar tribes are also the inhabitants of Rajasthan.

Religion: Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Jains, Sikhs; all live in Rajasthan.