Banjara caste.docx

Banjara-LambadiThe word Banjara is a deprecated, colloquial form of the word of Sanskrit origin. The sanskit bi-word Vana chara transliterated as "Forest wanderers", presumably because of their primitive role in the Indian society as forest wood collectors and distributors. The Banjara are a class of usually ascribed as nomadic people from the Indian state of Rajasthan, North-West Gujarat, and Western Madhya Pradesh and Eastern Sindh province of pre-independence Pakistan. They claim to belong to the clan of Agnivanshi Rajputs, and are also known as Banjari, Pindari, Bangala, Banjori, Banjuri, Brinjari, Lamani, Lamadi, Lambani, Labhani, Lambara, Lavani, Lemadi, Lumadale, Labhani Muka, Goola, Gurmarti, Gormati, Kora, Sugali, Sukali, Tanda, Vanjari, Vanzara,and Wanji Together with the Domba, they are sometimes called the "Gypsies of India". Distribution The Banjara have spread to Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and other states of India. About half their number speak Lambadi, one of the Rajasthani dialects, while others are native speakers of Hindi, Telugu and other languages dominant in their respective areas of settlement. Rathore, Parmar, Pawar, Chauhan, castes belong to Vanjara community in Rajasthan and Gujarat now are in General Seats after the communal rights taken place in Rajasthan for Reservation in 2008 as they were landlords in Amarkot, Fathaykot and Sialkot before Partition of India and Pakistan. They are an ST in Andhra Pradesh (where they are listed as Sugali), Orissa, Karnataka (SC), Haryana, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh. Culture in Andhra Pradesh In Andhra Pradesh, Lambadas in the Telangana region were only recently recognised as Schduled Tribes; earlier we were recognised as Denotified Tribes. Lambadas are of North-west Indian origin, who lived primarily by Our earnings from transportation on the pack bullocks. There is evidence to show that we supplied food grains etc. to the Moghuls when we invaded the Deccan. However, there is some dispute about the nature of Our Moghul connection. Whether we accompanied the Moghuls as an ordinance corps in the conquest of the Deccan, and some of them later stayed back to continue trade, or whether we were already present as traders, having come in an earlier period, and assisted the Moghuls when the latter came South. Women, Lambadi / Gor women (Thandri) wear a very colourful red style dress and lots of jewellery. The clothes we wear are decorated with pieces of mirror and cowl. we wear ivory bangles and ornaments, which are innumerable. The dance performed by Lambadis is more a rhythm based one. But when performed to the beat of the drums, it gains momentum. Dance, Lambadi is a special kind of dance of Andhra Pradesh. In this form of dance, mainly the female dancers dance in tune with the male drummers to offer homage to Our Lord for a good harvest. At Anupu Village near Nagarjunakonda, Lambadi dance originated. we are actually semi-nomadic tribes who are gradually moving towards civilization and decency. This dance is mainly restricted among the females and rarely the males participate in Lambadi Dance. Lambadi is a special kind of Folk Dance which involves participation by tribal women who bedeck themselves in colorful costumes and jewelry. Food The traditional food of Lambadis is Bati which is Roti. Daliya is a dish cooked using many cereal (wheat, jawar). Banjara people are very much fascinated about non-vegetarian food. Saloi (made from goat blood and other parts of goat) is a non-vegetarian dish made exclusively by Banjara people. They prefer eating spicy food. Dress Women are known to wear colorful and beautiful costumes like phetiya (as ghagra) and kanchalli (as top) and have tattoos on their hands. The dress is considered fancy and attractive by Western cultures. They use mirror chips and often coins to decorate it. Women put on thick bangles on their arms (patli). Their ornaments are made up of silver rings, coins, chain and hair pleats are tied together at the end by chotla. Men wear Dhoti and Kurta (short with many folds). These clothes were designed specially for the protection from harsh climate in deserts and to distinguish them from others. Arts, literature and entertainment Their customs, language and dress indicate they originated from Rajasthan. They live in settlements called thandas. They lived in zupada (hut). Now many of them live in cities. They have a unique culture and dance form. On many occasions they gather, sing and dance. Their traditional occupation is agriculture and trade. Banjaras are also a group of nomadic cattle herders. The accurate history of Lambanis or Lambadis or Banjaras is not known but the general opinion among them is that they fought for Prithvi Raj against Muhammad of Ghor. The trail of the Lambadi/Banjara can be verified from their language, Lambadi borrows words from Rajasthani, Gujarati, Marathi and the local language of the area they belong to. Banjaras originally belong to Rajasthan and they were Rajputs who migrated to southern parts of India for trade and agriculture. They settled down in the southern or central area of the country and slowly loosened contacts with Rajasthan, and their original community. Over a period of time both the communities separated and they adopted the local culture. The language spoken by Banjaras settled in Yavatmal district of Vidarbha, Maharashtra is an admixture of Hindi, Rajasthani and Marathi. The word "Banjara" must have evolved from Prakrit and Hindi and Rajasthani words "Bana/Ban or Vana/Van" meaning Forest or Moorlands and "Chara" meaning 'Movers'. The Banjara are (together with the Domba) sometimes called the "Gypsies of India". Lambadi Dance is a special kind of dance of Andhra Pradesh. In this form of dance, mainly the female dancers dance in tune with the male drummers to offer homage to their Lord for a good harvest. At Anupu village near Nagarjunakonda, Lambadi dance originated. They are actually semi-nomadic tribes who are gradually moving towards civilization. This dance is mainly restricted among the females and rarely the males participate in Lambadi dance. Lambadi is a special kind of Folk Dance which involves participation by tribal women who bedeck themselves in colorful costumes and jewelry. Banjara Marriage Culture The banjaras are grouped into 4 categories called gotras. The lambadi language term for gotra is Goth/Pada. The gotras are 1. Rathod/Bhukya 2.Chavan 3.Pawar 4.Vadtya. Under each of these gotras there are several Jaaths. People falling in the same Gotra Dont marry, they are considered brother and sister. The term for this is Bhaipana meaning brotherhood. If people fall under different gothras and can marry, the term used is Laagach means can marry. People usually have their jaath name as the surname, A detailed Jaath check of which jaath can marry which jaath and whom they fall under can be done at banjarapoint website in their jaath check / gotras check page. This was traditionally done by people called dhadi bhaats who were kind of knowledge agents/Knowledge experts. e Vadtiya and they are brother and sister.it means there are 6 gotras can be said Examples of Banjara Marraige Culture Bhaipana example Ghugloth (Vadtiya) and Aajmera (Vadtiya) cannot marry as fall under same category i.Rathod/Bhukya (27)  Aaloth  Bhaanaavath  Bhilavath  Degaavath  Depaavath  Devsoth  Dungaavath  Jhandavath  Kaanaavath  Karamtoth  Khaatroth  Khethaavath  Khilaavath  Kodaavath  Kumaavath  Meghaavath .The Rahtod/Bhukya Gotra/category has been said to have split into 2 making Banoth as a separate gotra by itself.Turi(badawat)is also said to be an additional gotra. i. So some people say there are 5 gotras.e Ghugloth falls under Vadtiya and Bhukya Falls under Rathore/Rathod. Laagacha example Ghugloth (Vadtiya) and Bhukya (Rathore) can marry as they fall under different categories. here are some of the sub-caste of gotras: I. Pawar (12) .Chavan/Chauhan (6)  Dumaavath/Chauradiya  Kayloth  Korra  Mood  Paalthyaa  Sabavat  Banoth (15)  Aadoth  Ade  Baanoth  Bhojaavath  Daanaavath  Dharmasoth  Dheeravath  Jaatroth  Karnaavath  Kuntaavath  Lavori  Mudavath  Paanaavath  Rupavath  Sabdasoth III.  Meraajoth  Meraavath  Nenaavath  Paathloth  Pithaavath  Raajavath  Raamavath  Raathla/Phulia  Ranasoth  Sangaavath  Sotki II.  Aamgoth  Aivath Pammar  Baanni  Chaivoth Pammar  Injraavath  Inloth Pammar  Jharapla  Lunsavath/Nunsavath  Pamaadiyaa  Tarabaanni  Vankdoth  Vislaavath IV.Vadithya/Jadhav(52)  Ajmera  Badavath  Barmaavath  Bhagvaandas  Bharoth  Bodaa  Dhaaraavath  Dungaroth  Gangaavath  Goraam  Gugloth  Halaavath  Jaadhav  Jaloth  Jayt  Kagla  Kunsoth  Lokaavath  Lonaavath  Loolaavath  Maaloth  Mohandas  Pipaavath  Poosnamal  Salaavath . Vanzara. Vanjari. Lemadi. Lamani. Banjuri. Kora. Bangala.  Sejaavath  Tejaavath  Tepaavath  Teraavath  Tuvar  Undaavath  VaderJhaad  Vadithya Jaajigiri Our Histry Banjara The Banjara are a class of usually ascribed as nomadic people from the Indian state of Rajasthan. Maturia. Sukali. They are divided in three tribes. Brinjari. They claim to belong to the clan of Agnivanshi Rajputs. Labana. Lambani. Labhani. North-West Gujarat. they are sometimes called the "Gypsies of India". Tanda. Pindari. Goola. Banjori. Lamadi. Lambara. Sugali.and Wanji Together with the Domba. Lumadale. and Western Madhya Pradesh and Eastern Sindh province of pre-independence Pakistan. Labhani Muka. Gormati. Lavani. and are also known as Banjari. Gurmarti. and Charan. . Parmar. 5. other Hindustani populations The word Banjara is a deprecated. Maharashtra. Haryana. Telugu and Marathi Seats after the communal rights taken place in Rajasthan for Reservation in 2008 as they were Religion landlords in Amarkot. Hindi. The sanskit bi-word Vana chara transliterated as "Forest wanderers". castes belong to Languages Vanjara community in Rajasthan and Gujarat now are in General Lambadi. and Himachal Pradesh. colloquial form of the word of Sanskrit origin. Haryana. About half their number Karnataka 1. one of the Maharashtra 0. Pawar.6 million The Banjara have spread to Andhra Pradesh. Madhya Pradesh 0. Daliya is a dish cooked using many cereal (wheat. Chauhan.3 million of settlement.2 million Uttar Pradesh and other states of India. Banjara Total population Distribution ca. Kannada. jawar).4 million Telugu and other languages dominant in their respective areas Rajasthan 0. Rajasthan.9 million Rajasthani dialects. presumably because of their primitive role in the Indian society as forest wood collectors and distributors. Regions with significant populations Karnataka. Madhya Pradesh. Fathaykot and Sialkot before Partition of India and Hinduism Pakistan. Orissa. Punjab. while others are native speakers of Hindi. Banjara people are very much fascinated about non-vegetarian food. They are an ST in Andhra Pradesh (where they are listed as Related ethnic groups Sugali). They prefer eating spicy food. Saloi (made from goat blood and other parts of goat) is a non-vegetarian dish made exclusively by Banjara people. The dress is considered . Andhra Pradesh 2. Rathore. Dress Women are known to wear colorful and beautiful costumes like phetiya (as ghagra) and kanchalli (as top) and have tattoos on their hands. Food The traditional food of Lambadis is Bati which is Roti. Karnataka (SC).1 million speak Lambadi. Maharashtra is an admixture of Hindi. They have a unique culture and dance form. This dance is mainly restricted among the females and rarely the males participate in Lambadi dance. The Banjara are (together with the Domba) sometimes called the "Gypsies of India" Dance. mainly the female dancers dance in tune with the male drummers to offer homage to their Lord for a good harvest. Arts. sing and dance. Lambadi dance originated. chain and hair pleats are tied together at the end by chotla. The trail of the Lambadi/Banjara can be verified from their language. coins. Lambadi borrows words from Rajasthani. Over a period of time both the communities separated and they adopted the local culture. Banjaras originally belong to Rajasthan and they were Rajputs who migrated to southern parts of India for trade and agriculture. who are simply Muslim converts from the Banjara caste. They lived in zupada (hut). and their original community. Rajasthani and Marathi. They use mirror chips and often coins to decorate it. On many occasions they gather. In this form of dance. The word "Banjara" must have evolved from Prakrit and Hindi and Rajasthani words "Bana/Ban or Vana/Van" meaning Forest or Moorlands and "Chara" meaning 'Movers'. Now many of them live in cities. Their traditional occupation is agriculture and trade. Related communities In Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat. language and dress indicate they originated from Rajasthan. The Muker. These clothes were designed specially for the protection from harsh climate in deserts and to distinguish them from others. They settled down in the southern or central area of the country and slowly loosened contacts with Rajasthan. The accurate history of Lambanis or Lambadis or Banjaras is not known but the general opinion among them is that they fought for Prithvi Raj against Muhammad of Ghor. Their ornaments are made up of silver rings. Lambadi is a special kind of Folk Dance which involves participation by tribal women who bedeck themselves in colorful costumes and jewelry. The language spoken by Banjaras settled in Yavatmal district of Vidarbha.fancy and attractive by Western cultures. Banjaras are also a group of nomadic cattle herders. Lambadi is a special kind of dance of Andhra Pradesh. Women put on thick bangles on their arms (patli). . Men wear Dhoti and Kurta (short with many folds). there are several communities of Muslim Banjaras. They are actually semi-nomadic tribes who are gradually moving towards civilization. At Anupu village near Nagarjunakonda. They live in settlements called thandas. literature and entertainment Their customs. Marathi and the local language of the area they belong to. Gujarati. Three other castes that claim kinship with the Banjara are the Labana of Punjab. the Gawaria of Haryana and Uttar Pradesh and Lavana of Rajasthan..(52) Ajmera Baadaavath Barmaavath Bhagvaandas Bharoth Bodaa Dhaaraavath Dungaroth Gangaavath Goraam Gugloth Halaavath Jaadhav Jaloth Jayt Kagla Kunsoth Lokaavath Lonaavath Loolaavath Maaloth Mohandas Pipaavath Poosnamal Salaavath Sejaavath Tejaavath Tepaavath Teraavath Tuvar Undaavath VaderJhaad .another Muslim community also traces its ancestry from the Banjara..(6) Dumaavath/Chauradiya Kayloth Korra Mood Paalthyaa Sabavat Lavadiya Vadithya/Jadhav -. People from one Gothra can marry another gothra Rathod/Bhukya -.(12) Aamgoth Aivath Pammar Baanni Chaivoth Pammar Injraavath Inloth Pammar Jharapla Lunsavath/Nunsavath Pamaadiyaa Tarabaanni Vankdoth Vislaavath Chavan/Chauhan -.there r some more which i dont know..(27) Aaloth Bhaanaavath Bhilavath Degaavath Depaavath Devsoth Dungaavath Jhandavath Kaanaavath Karamtoth Khaatroth Khethaavath Khilaavath Kodaavath Kumaavath Meghaavath Meraajoth Meraavath Nenaavath Paathloth Pithaavath Raajavath Raamavath Raathla/Phulia Ranasoth Sangaavath Sotki Pawar -..If u knw plz send me the other sub categories of this gotra . 1) Banjara 2) Banajara 3) Banjare 4) Banjari 5) Brijjari 6) Brijwasi 7) Labhan 8) Lamani 9) Lambhadi 10) Lambhad 11) Baldiya 12) Ladeniya 13) Sugali 13) Gawariya Gawar 14) Gawar 15) Gawaliya 16) Gawana 17) Kangi 18) Kanada 19) Sarakiband 20) Sarakiwala 21) Singwale Banjara Sub-castes: 1) Gor 2) Mathura 3) Dhaliya 4) Dhadi 5) Sanar 6) Nhavi 7) Shingada 8) Jogi 9) Bham 10) Bamaniya 11) Bagora 12) Digora 13) Charan 14) Bhat 15) Bazigar 16) Rohidas 17) Dhonkutte The word Banjara is attached in front of sub-castes e. Gor Banjara. CBC 1464/146691-M dated Feb.(15) Aadoth Ade Baanoth Bhojaavath Daanaavath Dharmasoth Dheeravath Jaatroth Karnaavath Kuntaavath Lavori Mudavath Paanaavath Rupavath Sabdasoth nnexure I Banjara Castes and Sub-castes: Gotra (Family) Tree Gor Banjara is not a caste but a tribe.O. In Maharashtra the list of castes and sub-castes of Gor Banjara was announced by the Government of Maharashtra in 1965 as Free Castes vide G.g.No. All these and the like sub- castes are Gorvamshiyas. 1965. The All India Banjara Sewa Sangh has identified following names of Gor Banjaras in the country based on a nationwide study. The Gotra Family Tree of Gor Banjaras The Clan (Gotra) is given more importance than lineage (Vamsha) in the socio-religious life of Gorvamshiyas. Banoth /Aade -. He must memorize the names of chiefs of his earlier 7 generations of his clan . The list is as follows: Banjara-like Castes: 1) Gor 2) Banjara 3) Lambad 4) Labhani 5) Lamani 6) Charan Banjara 7) Laman Banjara 8) Banjara Laman 9) Labhan 10) Dhadi 11) Dhaliya 12) Shingada Banjara 13) Jogi Banjara 14) Banjari. Khatrot 9. and Lana – 4.otherwise he is considered as Kamsal i. Dunga 4. Barnot Two sons of Bhika – 1. Malasi Four sons of Menasi – 1. . Dhunasi Seven sons of Khamdhar – 1. Bharot-4. Dhetaji 3. Lakha – 4. Bochran 3. Kinasot – 4. Udawat 2. Menasi 2. Pota 4. Bharat 4. Bega One son of Daha – Megha One son of Megha – Khamdhar Six sons of Megha – 1. Brahmawat 3. Gugul Six sons of Dhetji – 1 Mala 2. Dr. whose origin is a real or imaginery one (Bharatiya Janjati by Harishchandra Utpreti. 29. Jatot from Jatiya 7. Gopal 6. Khalwan 5. ‘Balanot from Bala 3. Jethot 5. Kukrecha 8. Clan of Rathod Lineage Bala and Bhika were the 2 sons of Phulsingh and Udaikaran. Khetawat – 1. Kalawat 3. ‘Dhalwan’ from Aalot 4. Arasi 3. Six sons of Bala – 1. Modaricha 7. Mohan 3. Ramniya 2. Kilawat 2. Gor are Chandravamshis. Muchhal 6. Junasi 6. Teja Four Padas of Purushottam Panda 1. Dhara 4. Boda (Pade Ajmera) Three sons of Netji – 1. Bada 6. Malan 2. ‘Munawat’ from Mohan 5. Netji Four sons of Khetaji – 1. Dharmasot The numbers of Pada of the Gotras are as under: Bhukya – 27. Khetaji 2. Bahadot Two sons of Khatrot – 1. Dalu 2. Muchhal 4. Lakhasi 5.e. ‘Bhukya’ from Bhika 2. Boda – 4. Munawat – 56. Muchhal Kula – 52. incomplete. Sadrath Ten sons of Malasi – 1. & 32). Luna 3. I. Lakha 2. Majumdar has made this definition of clan (Gotra): Probably a Gotra is a combination of some lineages. Suryavamshi and Chandravamshi are the main lineages in Kshatriyas. Brahmawat and 4. Kinsot 3. Devsot Eight clans (Gotras) of Rathod – 1. Dhanawar 5. Palot 4. Dhanakawat – 4. Itrajarni Other Padas: Jthot – 7. Malpot 10. Jadhav Wadatiya Lineage Clan: Three sons of Wadatiya – 1. Jatiya 5. Ramawat 6. Dalbaan 4. Daha 2. Balnot – 12. Karmatot 7. A Bhat is said to be described the linage of Bhukiya as : Kaspot Dhudya – Kas ke Kanwar – Awaraj – Dhawaraj – Tarasinh – Rao – Ratan – Doharaj – Bhika – Bhukiya II. Anna 2. pages 28. Dharmasot 6. Hala 2. Khunasi 3. Peri 3. . lÉä ÊÉ®ú EòÉ ºÉ®únùÉ®ú **4** SÉÉè½þÉxÉ ¨ÉxÉ EòÉ ¨ÉÉèVÉ´ÉÒ. When this fact came to light in all 16 panch (juries) heard the case and gave decision to marry the daughter with the Bhat and allowed the Bhat to become a Banjara. VÉÉVÉ¨É nùÒ fø±ÉEòÉªÉ ªÉÉnù´É xÉä EÆòSÉxÉ ÊEòªÉÉä. ¦ÉÚ±ªÉÉ ¦Éänù ¤ÉiÉÉªÉ ®úhÉVÉÒ ±ÉÉänùªÉÉ ±ÉÉJÉhɺÉÒ. On this the Bhat started a sit-in agitation and lived near Zarpala. On the other hand Zarpala owed some money to a Bhat (regarded as Brahmin). Zarpala 2. Goram 5. Kurra 4. Chhaiyot 3. ±ÉÖ¦ÉÉxÉÉ {ÉÉ®úvÉÒ xÉ]õ ˺ÉvÉ ¨É±ÉäÊb÷ªÉÉ +ÉäºÉªÉÉÇ. he (Goram) kept his daughter as a mortgage with Zarpala and said that he will not show up again till he clears the debt and went to other region. Chauhan Clan Linage: Six sons of Tejmal – 1. ¦ÉÉäVÉ Eò½ÖÆþ +¨É®úÉ´É **5** ¤Éb÷ EòÒ UôɪÉÉ ÉÒiɱÉÒ. IV. ʨɱÉÒ ºÉÖ{ÉÉ®úÒ {ÉÉxÉ **12** ¦ÉÉÆMÉ EòºÉÚ¤ÉÉÆ MÉÚPÉ®úÒ. BEò ±ÉÉJÉ ®úÉä nùÉxÉ **11** ºÉÉä±Éä +`öÉ®úÉ ¤ÉèÊ`öªÉÉ. EÆòSÉhÉ ¤ÉÊhɪÉÉä EòÉ¨É SÉÉ±É ¦É±ÉÒ ®úVÉ{ÉÚiÉ EòÒ. Gradually he fell in love with the Goram’s daughter. {ÉÆ´ÉÉ®ú EÖò±É nùÉiÉÉ®ú ®úÉ`ö+Éèb÷É VÉºÉ MÉÉʴɪÉÉ. Aariyot 2. ¨ÉÉxÉÉä ºÉiÉ Äð]õ PÉÉäb÷É ½þÉlÉÒ ÊnùªÉÉä. Mud – 13. This ritual was performed under a Banyan tree hence his name was also changed to Wadatiya. bÆ÷b÷ +`öÉ®úÉ Eò®úÉªÉ **6** PÉÉSÉÒ ¨ÉÉäSÉÒ ®äúMÉ®ú EÆòVÉ®ú. Palathya 2. VÉ±É ±ÉÉä]õÉ ºÉxɨÉÉxÉ III. ºÉiÉVÉÖMÉ ¨ÉÚ±É ¨ÉÆb÷ÉhÉ =ÊnùªÉÉMÉfø EòÉä ºÉ®ú ÊEòªÉ. 1. Aamgot 3. Lunsawat 7.The reason behind Purushottam Panda becoming a Banjara was that Purushottam Panda also known as Baba Brahman was a Wadatiya who had fallen in love with a Banjara girl of Zarpala clan. Winshalawat 2) Five clans originated from 5 sons of Hanjal viz. +Éè®ú ºÉ¤É ¦ÉɨÉ]õ **7** MªÉÉ®úÉ ¡Öò]õªÉÉ +ÉVÉ ºÉä. Chauradiya. iÉÒxÉÉå ºÉ¦ÉÉ Eäò ®úÉ´É xÉ®ú Eò½ÖÆþ xÉÉ®úɪÉhÉ Eò½ÖÆþ. Kurra – 42 & Chawadiya – 5 padas. EòÉføÒ ÊºÉiÉxÉ xɽþ®ú =näù{ÉÖ®úÒ VÉÒ Mɯû ʨɱªÉÉ. Legend says that one Banjara from Goram clan owed some money to a Banjara from Zarpala clan. Asalat. Kuelut 6. 1. The number of Padas of each Clan was: Palathya – 5. iÉÒxÉÉä VÉÖMÉ{ÉiÉ ®úÉªÉ **1** ºÉiÉMÉÖ¯û º´ÉɨÉÒ ÊºÉ¨É®úiÉÉ. Pawar Clan Linage: 1) The seven sons of Kasturi further ran into 7 clans in Banjara viz. ¡ò¯ûEäò vÉVÉÉ ÊxÉÉÉhÉ **2** +ººÉÒ ¨ÉhÉ ±ÉÉä½þÉ MɱªÉÉ. The lyrical description regarding assimilation of Wadatiyas into Banjara tribe is as follows: ʺɨɮúhÉ ¤É½þÌ¹É ÉÉ®únùÉ. Winjarawat 6. ºÉÉSÉÒ ÊEòxÉÒ ¨É½þ®ú **3** |ɦÉÉiÉä ʺɨɮúhÉ Eò¯Æû. Sapawat 5. Banni 4. When Bhat insisted on getting the money back. Zarpala said that he couldn’t return the money till Goram clears his debt. Tirbani 5. When Zarpala insisted on getting the money from Goram. Mud 3. Bakdot 4. Maalpot 159. Balawat 127. Jadawat 63. Hampawat 209. Khaatrot 41. Vinjarawat 190. Maalpot 170. Khaalwan Ga 43. Patarwal 119. Gaur 49. Handawat 210. Bharot 142. Salawat 197. Aalot 5. Paatlot 112. Lakhanot 186. Lotawat 185. Aadot 6. Chhajawat 59. Kitawat 11. Lhawadiya 187. Jamanawat 62. Zarpala 2. Baalnot 135. Dhasadi 101. Lalawat 181. Kotwali 29. Delawat 94. Tarbani 84. Aarod 9.These 12 sons were responsible for the continuation of 12 clans afterwards. Goram 5. Doolawat 86. Lagawat 182. Palthya 115. Phoonasot 125. Some people treat the 12 clans as under: 1. Galawat 45. Rajawat 3. Kheemapot 40. Chavaan Chha 58. Teelawat Tha 74. Aarsot 3. Jalhane Ta 73. Deplaan 89. Haanawat 208. Daipot 87. Kadawat 17. Khetawat 38. Sadasot 200. Tegawat 4. Badawat 143. Bhanchawat 144. Raitala 174. Jeenwalo 70. Pepawat 106. Gangawat 44. Dhansawat 97. Moochchal 166. Binjarot 134. Megawat 151. Rajawat 173.Kunthawat 22. Kilawat 24. Mangawat 149. Pemani 121. Saranot 205. Panchawat 110. Udawat 12. Malawat 154. Dhanawat 96. Palot 118. Peepawat 108. Dudhawat Dha 95. Udaawat K 13. Chhaiyot 10. Jogawat 67. Kasanawat 23. Somawat 198. V. Boda 140. Cheenawat 54. Karamtot Kha 35. Bhegawat 146. Kookrechya 31. Chandavtak 56. Pandiya 116. Khanawat 37. Aaiyot 8. Chadawat 52. Harasawat 207. Phoolawat 124. Aasalat 4. Daalwan 76. Saktawat 195. Bahadot Bha 140. Sangawat 194. Paangot Pha 123. Saangrot 199. Jarpala 72. Raimalot 177. Sapawat Ha 206. Loona Va 189. Ramawat La 180. Goram 50. Keensot 34. Hardeo. Kelut 33. Jeewawat 71. Kalawat 211. Winjarawat 6. Bharatawat 141. Panwar 117. Dharawat 98. Brahmawat 132. Josawat 64. Moolawat 150. Tejawat 81. Nagawat 104. Chhaiyot 60. Moonawat 156. Dedawat 93. Khola 39. Roopawat 175. Phulawat 9. Lakhawat 183. Hirapot 212. Dangrot Ta 79. Gujrot 47. . Jasawat 2. Dhanakawat Na 102. Ranawat 172. Sandol 202. Isarot U 11. Kadakawat 14. Bojgar 139. Aa 1. Baangot 138. Nenawat Pa 105. Bechadot 136. Jesawat 65. Aamgot 3. Karadawat 25. Boochawat 130. Wadatiya 192. Kandawat 12. Jodhawalo 69. Manakpot 160. Tegawat 82. Boonawat 133. Deglot 90. Bandawat 129. Pachanawat 109. Sadrath 203. Bhangawat 145. Tarawat 80. Modaricha 167. Sadawat 196. Maansot 163. Kurawat 16. Chhonchhawat Ja 61. Siraya 201. Pachamanot 114. Kitawat 26. Bandhawat 128. Maulan 169. Baakdot 137. Kandhlot 28. Sankara 204. Mohan Ra 171. Dheerawat 99. Khoonasi 42. Ranasipota 176. Paatlot 113. Jaatot 68. Tejsod 83. Turi: 1. Phoolaya Ba 126. Kammawat 20. Gopal Cha 51. Lunsawat 7. Kanthiwalo 30. Wishalawat 8. Mokawat 152. Meratiya 164. Nalawat 103. Perajat 120. Dapawat 92. Malot 161. Thaakran Da 75. Wankadot 4. Geedawat 46. Aajmera E 10. Chandot 57. Badhawat 131. Rathod 179. Mepawat 155. Poonawat 111. Khammawat 36. Kumpawat 19. Motiwalon 165. Baarnot 142. Bhakiya 143. Vijarani Sa 193. Tunwar Da 85. Deglot. Kanna 32. Chintawat 55. Popapawat 107. Dharamsot 100. Bocharan 144. Chundawat 53. Laadwan 188. Dehawat 78. Bhojawat 147. Vinsalawat 191. Winjod Gorvamsha is given according to Clan Tree and alphabetically. Mhalan 162. Jetsalot 66. Googlot 48. Motawat 153. Karanawat 21. Kurra 15. Doomawat 77. Lumbawat 184. Aamgot 7. Menawat 158. The clan names of concerned sub-castes are also included in it. Bani 141. Aanawat 2. Ramniya 178. Palasiya 122. Mundawat 157. Deosot 88. Dewawat 91. Karamsiyot 27. Bhansot Ma 148. Kalawat 18. Mood 168. e. Luniya. Tanda Chala’ (Tanda halted. In a way he was the king of the Tanda. nobody should suffer from any thing and there should be a cordial relationship among the Tanda members. This practice later on turned to become a primitive culture. Even today the settlements of Gor Banjaras are known as Tandas.g. Naik used to marry 2 women as a matter of prestige. All activities including trade. In every linage (e. Dhaliya . The Gors had similar tradition. He was keeping an eye on all the activities of the Tanda. The Tanda equally respected his wives.” (Indian Culture by C. The Tandas were having temporary structures made up of wood and grass. In a given situation it was the Naik who would provide succour to the needy.e. Rathod.N. Luniya says: “The cattle was the real wealth of the Aryans. The Tanda members had a feeling of pride about the Naik. His characteristics included dharma. the Manager. And it is still thriving today. Jadhav etc. Other parallel words with same meaning are Sthan. Chavan.’ The Tanda moves as per the orders of Naik. The settlement near the mountains and forest is known as ‘Toda’ in Nemadi. It was also an honorable post. Naiks also fulfilled all the responsibilities as the supreme. The matrimonial relations were also fixed on the basis of the Naik’s reputation instead of the bride and groom’s name and personality. page 38). Tanda moved on) came into vogue. On the basis of these virtues only the whole Tanda respected and honoured the Naik completely. The wealthiness of a person was decided on the basis of the amount of cattle with him. He was expected to be striving for spreading the popularity of the Tanda and make it an ideal one with its overall development. Owing to its nomadic nature the phrase ‘Tanda Ruka. He was responsible to see whether the Naik’s orders were being followed or not. He had total control over the Tanda. He was to report all activities to the Naik and discuss the matter with him. Tandu is used. Thano etc. Naik Every group (Toli) had its own chieftain. The Naik maintained humanitarian approach so that members of other Tandas should also join his Tanda due to his worthy behaviour. The Naik was responsible for taking care of his Tanda which included avoiding any kind of blame.) the same family was entitled for Naikship and it went to next generation. If the Naik and Karbhari failed to fulfill their duties then the senior most person from their linage was appointed to the post. The Tanda was known by the name of the Naik only.N. forgiveness. Gor Banjaras called this chieftain as ‘Naik. internal dealings were carried out with his approval only. In Marathi the same word i. Karbhari (Manager) The second important person in the Tanda was the Karbhari i. C. When the source of fodder was shortened the Tandas move to another place. The Tandas were used to settle at places in the plains where there is enough source of water and rich water absorbent soil. The word Tanda was originated in Gor Boli from this word. The place was known as Gor Tanda. They needed grasslands for their cattle.The Tanda System Every group had a leader. truthful and justice-loving. The Naikship was handed over through specific generations only. Pawar. He greeted the Tanda members with ‘Ram. Apart from them Jogi Banjara. They also fought with a war bugle in one hand while sword in the other. He was paid according to his job. They were lyricists who praised Naik and Manager and wrote lyrics on brave men. On the occasion of marriages he was engaged in playing an instrument called ‘Duf.’ The barber’s family resided with the Tanda. He was also given prizes on the occasion of festivities. They designed special ornaments for the Gor Banjara women. In a way they were like ‘charan bhats’ and lived their life. He used to fulfill all the assignment given by the Naik and the Karbhari. He was an integral part of the Tanda. Kolam tribals also have this custom in their tribe (Adivasi Evam Upekshit Jan. He traveled to different Tandas on special occasions and earned money. Naik and Karbhari gave him clothes to wear. They were also singing war songs with the sound of war bugle. There was a king named Bhratari during the regime of Nine Naths (Navnath). A. Hajam (Barber) Gor Banjara men have a penchant for hairstyles. As an artist the Tanda members honoured him. The craftsmen engaged in women ornaments like ‘Mathiya and Bodalu’ were known as Malenda. He used to sing a song written by him. Their unique hair cutting style is known as ‘Zalpa. A Dhadhi was instrumental in establishing matrimonial relations in ancient times.H. Dhadhis were born artists and intelligent.Every Tanda had a servant known as Dhaliya. He followed Muslim religion though he lived with the Tanda. He was given prize for his performance. He gave up all worldly pleasures and became a sage. He was a honourable person. Dhadhi An ancient tribe named Dhadhi lived with the Tandas. Naik & Karbhari solved any of his financial needs. Hindi Tr. He made some followers too. Gor Banjara still sing the story of King Bhratari in their folk songs. Sanar: (Goldsmith) Two families of Goldsmith accompanied the Tanda. This king moved with the Tanda as a sage.’ All his familial needs and food were taken care of by the Tanda. He was also responsible for handing over the messages to other Tandas. Inamdar. Shingada Banjara were also part of the Tandas. His family helped others on special occasions. This tribe was also . which included ballads and story-songs on an instrument called Kingari. Ram’ and people reciprocated it with equal honor and blessed him for his well-being. He also took some order for other Tandas but never left the Naik with whom he resided. Some people were engaged in this job and they were later came to be known as Shingada Banjara. The people of this linage started calling themselves as Jogi Banjara. Some Naiks gave a refuge to these people as a status symbol. They wondered in all the Tandas of the region and had every information about them. Page 67). He was equally regarded as a poet in King’s court. Shingada Banjara During the regime of Gorvamshis an instrument called Turahi was played during the war to energize the soldiers. The roof is covered with grass. But the rows of the houses were different according to the linage and the clan. Hajam. The All India Banjara Sewa Sangh report says that the Banjaras are known by 27 different names in different regions of the country (All India Banjara Study Team. Malenda. There are different castes like Lamani and Mathura Lamani. Hajam and Sunar have some similar surnames. It is divided in 2 portions. The house of Naik and Karbhari was also like others. Hajam. Sunar. Normally the Tandas used to settle at a distance of 1-2 Kilometers from other community or village. The door of the house is directed towards East. This caste is known as Lambada or Lambadi in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The homes in the Tanda were built with wood like a hut. One should look after its own work and the Tanda was the practice. There is an open space in front of the house. The dialect of Dhadhi. The kitchen was on the left side while the sitting and sleeping place was to the right. and Jogi is the Gor Boli. Only on the basis of similarities in the dialect and profession the other sub-castes cannot be called as Gorvamshiyas. Only those people who proclaim themselves as Gor are the Gorvamshiyas. are found among Shingada Banjara. Bhoomi Puja (Worshipping the Land) . The women of Dhalia. Mane. There used to be homes for all types of class in the Tanda. The above mentioned castes cannot keep matrimonial or other transactions with the Tanda though they are living with the Tanda for generations. In the open ground in front of the Tanda. The people engaged in the trade of salt (Lavan) thus came to be known as Lamani. They can be differentiated on the basis of their dialect. where the cattle shade was built. Some families also reside in Pusad Tehsil. The Hajam Banjara has their independent Tanda in the Kannad Tehsil. page 9). javelin and other instruments. Shingada and Hajam call themselves as Banjara. it was called as ‘Damani’. Jogi. Only the Dhadhi men and women have clothing styles like the Gor Banjaras. Jogi and Shingad caste wear blouse and nine yard saris. Though these people speak Gor dialect still some independent words are in their vocabulary. The rows of the houses in the Tanda were erected in a semi-circular fashion. Among them Laman is a Gorvamshiya Banjara caste. Their festivals and other traditions have similarities. The word Lawan means salt. Shingada Banjara has a huge Tanda near Killari village in Maharashtra. The houses were having no windows and had only one door. The Dhadhi. Kamble etc. But Dalit surnames like Gaikwad. The Structure of the Tanda The Tandas used to halt at a place in the plains where there is provision of water at the bottom of the mountains and the soil is fast drying and water absorbent in the rainy season. The valuable items were also kept in the Tagadi. But they are not Gors. rituals and clothing. Dhalia. Convener-Ranjit Naik.engaged in giving training to use swords. In the center there was a place called Tagadi. where the statues of gods were kept. rituals like Ori and Samanka and community functions were conducted. Such is the classless system in any Tanda. The principle was not to get involved too much in the affairs of the village. Dhadhi. Jogi. When asked about their caste by Gor Banjara these people do not proclaim themselves as Gormati instead tell their own caste’s name. They were known as Lamani only since 100 years in Vidarbha. This is called as Samank Pooja. In order to solve the disputes this Jati Panchayat would decide on the matters.’ . Then he can marry with a girl from the Tanda. The goat was sacrificed in the open space in front of the Tanda in the evening and its blood was offered to the earth. The whole Tanda was given a feast on the occasion. It was considered as a sin to approach courts and offices for settling the dispute. After practicing agriculture for 4 months then again after the Diwali festival Tandas were starting their ‘ladeni’ profession. The men had the Dhero Suo (big needle) while the women would make designs on clothes with small needle. Gor people used to take along children of other community or sometimes forcibly abduct the children and took them along with them. The old men and women would look after the remaining cattle and prepare sacks for the ladeni. On the return of Ladeni. Jati Panchayat (Juries) Tribal Kshatriya Vamshas had an important system of Jat Panchayat. defeat any enemy feelings and solve the internal disputes within the four walls. As the number of such people grew. The same procedure was repeated when the Tanda was dismantled for migration. Spinning while maintaining the cattle and making of the special sack called ‘Gunli’ in Gor dialect were their main works. In Gor dialect it is called as Ladeni. Method of allowing into the Caste During the course of Ladeni. The Panchayat then would meet on the scheduled date outside the Tanda. first the marriages were arranged before the onset of monsoon. The label of being an outsider (Kamsal) would be erased during his three generations. Lakhs of oxen were involved in this trade. With such inclusion he would become an integral part of the Tanda. Jat Panchayat is still in vogue among the Gors. Then a small fireplace is prepared at the same place. The community was living in groups. When a person from another caste enters a Tanda he was not allowed to leave it. The man from other caste was called as Jangad. maintain peace. they had matrimonial relations among them. The women did not accompany the ladeni. After that he would become a Gor Banjara. This profession is termed as Balad in Malawi Nimadi. Ladeni These people were involved in the trade of goods by loading the same on oxen. The Tandas were working for 6-7 months and before the start of the rainy season they were returning to their home. Then Naik would call the Karbhari to decide a date to hear the matter. It was quite natural that some issues might crop up among them. The aggrieved person would go to the Naik with his complaint. After he was allowed to dine with the people Tanda he would become one of the Gor tribe. Also in order to pacify the spirits people used to collect money and sacrifice a goat for them. the meat was cooked and the Tanda used to eat the offering there only. The main objectives of the Panchayat were to keep the Tanda safe from any blasphemy. There are historical references to the fact that lakhs of oxen were seen laden with goods and going places. When they would grow up they were included in the caste after performing a special ritual called ‘Bheler’ (to assimilate). But most of the disputes were concerned with women. They were treated as servants and were asked to do all the chores in the Tanda. This ancient ritual was prevalent in the Tanda till recently. It was called as ‘Nasab or Malav.The worship of Nature (Nisarga Pooja) was performed wherever the Tanda stopped. The hunting of wild boar was considered as most important. The first day of the New Year i. Laman used oxen for carrying the goods. Banjaras were in the forefront in this profession. Two European travelers viz. they were away from the civic life for many years.T.e. Blunt had traveled on this route in 18th Century (Shabda Bhugol Siddhant Prayog by Hiralal Shukla. Naik is the chairman of the Panchayat and moderates the process of the hearing. The biggest trade route of the Lamans was from Mirzapur to Nagpur. Depending on the nature of the crime he is sentenced.Naik. The distance of this route would be shortest and passing near water facilities. “In the absence of common roads and highways people in those times would load the goods in bullock carts or on the back of oxen to reach the places. Whoever stands by the family would also be treated as outcast. Then both the persons are asked some questions in front of the people and asked to reason with the dispute. The person hunting the wild boar was called as ‘Surama Mati. In the end the convict is decided by the Daisane with due consultation.’ Hunter dogs were used for this purpose. Slowly they came into contact with other people.’ The meeting would start with an informal dialogue. Tattooing . Chaitra Shukla Pratipada was celebrated with a hunt. Karbhari and the aged. Rules of hunting were also prescribed. Naik declares the name of the convict.’ The wild boar is called as Sur in Gor dialect. Hunting During spare time the Tanda members would go for hunting. experienced persons of the Tanda work as jurists. Owing to the independent systems of the Tanda. The Naik would get a share of honour if a wild boar was killed. Motle and J. The routes undertaken by them would later on become passenger routes. It was considered as the highest form of punishment. The Daisane decide the quantum of the sentence in privacy a little distance away from the meeting. The complainant stands up and explains the injustice meted to him. The weapons used for hunting included spears and sticks. All members were given equal share of the hunt. If the animal gets alerted and starts running the dogs would be ordered to chess it. They are known as ‘Daisane. It was known as ‘Yed Ramer. Pin-drop silence prevails over the meeting. They are called as Laman in Bundelkhand. page 22). But such events were rare. some anecdotes were shared and then the Nasab would begin. The map of this route has been given by Banjara Study Team. If the punishment is not acceptable to the convict then he may approach the Naik and Nasab of another Tanda for justice. The one who located the animal and hunted it on the spot would get the head of the animal as an honour. T. After arguments from both sides are over the root cause of the dispute is examined. Almost every household had a pet dog. The Tanda would boycott the whole family of the convict. Then they again join the meeting and tell their decision to the Naik who declares it. Laman Route In ancient times the route taken by the Gor Banjara for trade was known as Laman Route. Normally the punishment is in the form of monetary fine. The accused then stands up and refutes all the charges made by the complainant and tries to prove himself innocent. If the convict refused to undergo the punishment the Panchayat would declare him as an outcast. They had a wild herb for medication on all types of illnesses. the first one i. Another type of illness i. The other acts of witchcraft included Bhanamati. In order to diagnose these ‘Barer’ ailments a ritual called ‘Samal’ was performed. The child would be buried in a ditch outside the Tanda in standing position and lakhs of oxen loaded with goods made to run over him. Among the two main types of illnesses. Normally a person from another caste was sacrificed for the purpose. Among them such woman was called Dakan and male a Daki. Such small children only were made to sacrifice.” (Nimad Ka Samskritik Itihaas by Ramanarain Upadhyay. page 221). Chintali).’ They were called as Jaanies (Bhagat). Talwar etc. attaching a coin to a plate. The girls tattooed names of their brothers while women tattooed circles. on their arms. “The tribes from Nimad area believed that by performing human sacrifice and offering the meat to the goddess she blesses all. It included overturning the grinding stone. men tattooed designs of Jambiya. physical (danger) is treated with the forest herbs and juice of leaves. There was a blind faith behind it. page 130). Their overall health was good owing to their habitat in forests and mountain region. sitting on a small water container and moving of necklace and through these acts the illness was understood. The Tanda also included people who were expert in black magic. Specific men and women in the Tanda used to perform this ritual of ‘Samal. Samal means to predict future or favour. On such occasions. Even the attack of ghosts and spirits would also be treated with mantras and medicines. a lemon are moved over the body of the patient and thrown away.The trait of tattooing on the body is in vogue in all the Tandas. They were ignorant about hospital facilities for many years. For treatment of both humans and animal they used to depend on the wild herbs and medicines. Everyday bath was taken to cleanse the body (Adivasi Samudai. They believed that such a sacrifice pacifies the spirits.e. Health concerns and Measures The Tanda people deeply believed in magic. girls and males were fond of tattooing on the body. Chetaki. The Bhagat would give ash and water treated with mantras and ask the patient to drink it. Aghori Kheler.” (‘Adivasi Samudaay mein Swasthya Ke Kuchh Paksha’ by Markandeysinh Yadav. If a snake or a scorpion bites any person then they chant mantras and use medicines to treat him. and Walandya etc. old timers say. Most of the people get tattooed to preserve the memory of their loved ones (Handli. Parir Zapate. Fasal Siyama. Earlier the women used to tattoo each other with a needle. A thread made up of Seven knots of hair of a cow is tied around the waist of the patient. Fisting. a hen. The patient was treated according to their instructions. ‘Barer’ was considered to be an effect of outside forces like black magic. before starting off the Tanda. Bhoot Kadher. Small children were abducted and later engaged as servants (Jangad) the Tanda. Women.e. Widow Remarriage System . Munja. page 219). He is asked to observe a day’s fast in the name of the Goddess. “The custom of tattooing on the body is prevalent among the tribals on large scale. Then an egg. ghosts and spirits. Human Sacrifice Gor Banjaras practiced transport of goods by loading them on lakhs of oxen. human sacrifice was given. which mentions this story: "xÉ VÉɳÖý ½þɺÉÒ xÉ VÉɳÖý JÉÖÉÒ xÉ ®úÉEÖò VÉä`ö ¨É±ÉÉVÉÉä +ÉiÉ®úÉ VɱɨÉÉhÉÉå EòÉ ÊEònùÒ ªÉÉb÷Ò" Even today the Gors tease each other on the marrying with the elder brother: "½þÉäiÉÒ ½þÉäiÉÒ VÉMÉEò®ú. It was a very grave situation. page 21) There was a saying in Malwa in this connection: "PÉÉMÉ®úÉä >ðEòÉä PÉä®únùÉ®ú.. The expenses of the marriage are paid to the first husband.) HISTORY Of banjara (lambani) BanjaraBanjara woman in traditional dressRegions with significant populations Andhra Pradesh&Telangana3.3 million Madhya Pradesh2. If a woman left her husband and marries to another man then she was called as ‘Bhangali’ woman. The rituals had almost come to an end when Kanji was killed in an internal skirmish. She was forcibly married to him. ®úÉÆb÷ªÉÉ MÉÉä®úÒxÉ {ÉhÉ ±ÉɪÉÉå ¦ÉÚEòÒªÉÉ" (History of Gor Banjara by Baliram Patil. The younger brother would marry his own sister-in-law after the death of his elder brother. The bride refused to marry with her would be brother-in-law.2 million Karnataka2.2 million .9 million Maharashtra2. meaning divorce. (Continued. Evidence has it that an elder brother married his younger brother’s would be wife when the young brother died before his marriage. This is called as ‘Mamala Toder’.Custom of Polygamy and widow remarriage was prevalent among Kshatriya Gors.. There is one folk song. xÉ ½þÉäiÉÒ ÊEònùÉä ®úɪɨɱÉ.4 million Rajasthan2. SÉÉä±ÉÒ >ðEòÒ iÉÆMÉ. ºÉÉä±ÉÉ näù´É®ú UôÉäb÷Eäò MÉ< VÉä`ö Eäò ºÉÆMÉ" In ancient times there was a custom of abducting the women and bring them to Tanda. One Raimal’s young brother Kanj’s marriage ceremony was in progress. [2]They are divided in two tribes. Labhani. The festival.J Roy Burman. Lambani. known as "Dadhis" or"Gajugonia" . Lamadi. and are also knownas Lakha Banjara meansLakhapati. [7]Singers of the community. They truly descend fromRajputs. Maturia. andLabana. Bangala.0 million Languages Banjari Religion Hinduism TheBanjara. Together with theDomba. Lumadale. Sugali. Goola. Sukali.Their traditional living place.[4]Art work by Lambani womanEtymologyBanjaras are traditionally known as suppliers and pack bullock carriers and Banjara word is derived fromSanskritwordvana chara(wanderers in jungle). Pindari. the Lamans were originally from Afghanistan and there is an independent province and village calledGorin that country.Punjab2.[1]They are known for coloured dress.Lambara. and Wanji. The bowls with seedlings are kept in the middle and the girls sing and dance circling the bowl. Lamani. it is considered as good omen for their future groom. is usually located outside a village (in India) . Brinjari.[5]CultureTraditional Banjara DressBanjara people celebrateTeej. Gormati. they are sometimes called the"gypsies of India". The nameLamanis popular long before the name Banjara and the Laman Banjaras originally came from Afghanistan before settling in Rajasthan and other parts of India.Ethnography of a Denotified Tribe The Laman Banjara. Tanda. in his book titled.Lambani.[6]Girls sow seeds in bamboo bowls and water it three times a day for nine days and if the sprouts grow "thick and high".Banjara Lambaniare a class of usually described as nomadic people from the Indian state ofRajasthan. Lemadi.Banjari. now spread out all over Indian subcontinent. calledTanda. Gurmarti. Lavani. also calledLamani. isconsideredas a festival of"unmarried girls" who pray for a "better groom". Vanjari. folk ornaments and bangles.dhadi. He states that according toMotiraj Rethod. [6]Holiis also celebrated by Banjara people. The wordLambani or Lamani is derived from Sanskrit wordlavana(salt) which was the principal goods they transported across the country. Labhani Muka. Vanzara. Kora. Banjori. Banjuri.[3]OriginsAccording to J. celebrated during theSharavanmonth (August). enabling the community people to exclusively market them in that name. grains.rangoli. as of 2012) in India. The temple has a Shiva's idol which is believed to be 150 year old. Seva Bhayya or Sevalal. government employment and other labour. [15]BeliefsBanjara people are "strong believers" of god. [19]which may give the language better status to get more funds for research and development.Balaji.painting.LanguageThey speakBanjari languagewhich is also called asGoar-boliwhich belongs to Indo-Aryan group of languages and the language has no script and recorded history. adopting the predominant language of their surroundings. they are spread in northern parts of the state[20]and Karnataka has second largest population (1. [17]The community as a whole islearning local Indian languages in schools and gradually they are losing the original dialect and most of them have become bi-lingual or multi-lingual. [18]Efforts are being put toinclude Banjara language in 8th Schedule of Constitution of India. Banjara people were transporters of goods from one place to other and the goods they transported included salt. In Karnataka. Lambani women specialise in "lepo" embroidery on clothes by vowing glass pieces in clothes. This practice is gradually losing its importance. They also pray tl Sati Aayi.A Banjara FamilyDistributionThe most numerous Banjara orLambadicommunity is inAndhra PradeshandTelanganastates at 2.1 million. with his original name as Siva Rathode. [9]ArtFolk art of Banjara people include activitieslikedance. Mithu Bhukhiya was an "expert decoit" of the tribe and is worshipped in a hut built infront ofTandaor village with a white flag on top. He protected the women of his community and his story is quoted by British administrators who tagged his period around 1857 A. [14]They also worshippeerandBanjara Deviby praying in the forest. the British colonial authorities brought the community under the preview ofCriminal Tribes Act of 1871. [15]No member of the community is allowed to sleep in the special hut built for Mithu Bhukhiya (also spelled Mitthu Bhukhiya). firewood and cattle. Of these. mainly because the people aremore engaged in agriculture.tattooing. and had construed many temples. By .[8]perform songs withsarangi. [13]and worship Hindu gods likeKrishna. [10]Specifically embroidery and tattooing has more significance in the community. [16]Seva Bhaya or Seva Lal was a saint and is highly respected by the Banjara people.Jagadamba DeviandHanuman.embroidery. [21]In India.music.2 million where they speak their own dialect along withTelugu. [12]ReligionBanjara people follow Hinduism. such asShri Shiva Anjaneya Swamy Temple. During 18th Century. Mithu Bhukhiya which are gods of their community. represented by a heap of stones.[11]"Sandur Lambani Craft" practiced by the Lambani people had received a Registered Geographic Indication tag in India.D. Goola.enforcing this act. Brinjari. and Wanji. They claim to belong to the clan of Agnivanshi Rajputs.ClassificationIn some states of India. the British Raj curbed the movement of Banjara people.[23]There has been continuous efforts by Government agencies to improve the conditions of community by activities such as building 8622 houses for them during 2009-10.In the state of Tamil Nadu they are Backward Classes (BC). Together with the Domba. Pakistan. The Banjara are a class of usually described as nomadic people from the Indian state ofRajasthan. Karnataka. while . Lamadi. In Karnataka. Kora. North-West Gujarat. Labhani. Banjori. Lambani.[22]Thestigma attached to this continued until 1952 when the Act was abolished by the newly Independent India. Banjuri.Uttar Pradesh and other states of India. Sugali. Sukali. After the fall of the Rajputs. one of theRajasthani dialects. they are considered as Scheduled Caste while in other states they are categorized as Scheduled Tribe. Haryana. Distribution The origin of Banjara community is stated in the area between Bikaner and Bahawalpur. Vanjari. About half their number speak Lambadi. Tanda. they started spreading across the country. The Banjara had spread to Andhra Pradesh. they areOther Backward Classes (OBC)category. and Western Madhya Pradesh and Eastern Sindhprovince of Pakistan. they are categorised as Scheduled Caste since 1977 . Pindari. Maharashtra. Banjari. Lavani. Lamani. Lambara. Vanzara. and are also known as Lakha Banjara means 'Lakhapati'. Labhani Muka. Bangala. Lemadi. Gurmarti. Lumadale. [19]In the state Rajasthan. Gormati. Banjara people also enjoy many non-vegetarian foods. and Himachal Pradesh.P. "forest wanderers" was given to them presumably because of their primitive role in the Indian society as forest wood collectors and distributors. colloquial form of the word of Sanskrit origin. such as wheat or jawar.Lucknow. Fathaykot and Sialkot before Partition of India and Pakistan.They are also called Lakha.[4] The word Banjara is a deprecated. fish is their main food.others are native speakers of Telugu.In U. Haryana. made from goat blood and other goat parts. Chauhan.Hindi and other languages dominant in their respective areas of settlement.). Etymology The word "Banjara" must have evolved from Prakrit and Hindi and Rajasthani words "Bana/Ban or Vana/Van" meaning Forest orMoorlands and "Chara" meaning 'Movers'. Rathod. Gud and deshi Ghee). Nat Brijvasi and speaking fluently Gor boli) and Scheduled Tribe in Andhra Pradesh (where they are listed as Lambani in Karnataka & Sugali in A. The Banjara are (together with the Domba) sometimes called the "Gypsies of India". Daliya is a dish cooked using many cereal.P they are they are very fond of Malida(mixing Moti Roti. . Among the non- vegetarian dishes unique to them are saloi. Pawar. The Banjara are also known for preferring spicy food. Kannada and Gor boli. The Sanskrit compound-word vana chara. and Jadhav castes belong to Banjara community in Rajasthan and Gujarat now are in General Seats after the communal rights taken place in Rajasthan for Reservation in 2008 as they were landlords in Amarkot. In Andhra. Even though they settled across the country. they still consider themselves as nomad community. Naik. They are a Scheduled castes in Karnataka and Uttar Pradesh(Gorakhpur. Orissa. Culture Food The traditional food of Banjara is Bati (roti). Bareiiy and Moradabad divisions where they are known as Gual. Punjab. Dress Women are known to wear colorful and beautiful costumes like phetiya (as ghagra) and kanchalli (as top) and have mehendi tattoos on their hands. Men wear dhoti and kurta (short with many folds). coins. These clothes were designed specially for the protection from harsh climate in deserts and to distinguish them from others. The dress is considered fancy and attractive by Western cultures. . They use mirror chips and often coins to decorate it. chain and hair pleats are tied together at the end by chotla. Their ornaments are made up of silver rings. Women put on thick bangles(bandiya) on their arms (patli). Arts. They lived in zupada (hut). Banjaras originally belong to Rajasthan and were Rajputs[citation needed] who migrated to southern parts of India for trade and agriculture. They settled down in the southern or central area of the country and slowly loosened contacts with Rajasthan. They have a unique culture and dance form. The accurate history of Lambanis or Lambadis or Banjaras is not known but the general opinion among them is that they fought for Prithvi Raj Chauhan against Muhammad of Ghor. The Lambadi people have large . Lambadi borrows words fromRajasthani. Rajasthani and Marathi. They live in settlements called thandas. In this form of dance. Now many of them live in cities. mainly the female dancers dance in tune with the male drummers to offer homage to their Lord for a good harvest. literature and entertainment Their customs. This dance is mainly restricted among the females and rarely the males participate in Lambadi dance. On many occasions they gather. At Anupu village near Nagarjunakonda. Over a period of time both the communities separated and they adopted the local culture. sing and dance. Gujarati. Lambadi dance originated. Maharashtra is an admixture of Hindi. Lambadi Dance is a special kind of dance of Andhra Pradesh. Their traditional occupation is nomadic cattle herding. They are actually semi-nomadic tribes who are gradually moving towards civilization. The language spoken by Banjaras settled in Yavatmal district of Vidarbha. language and dress indicate they originated from Rajasthan. and their original community. The trail of the Lambadi/Banjara can be verified from their language. Lambadi is a special kind of Folk Dance which involves participation by tribal women who bedeck themselves in colorful costumes and jewelry. they are OBC category and in other states they are scheduled tribes. Only in the state Rajasthan. Later they slowly moved into agriculture and trade. Marathi and the local language of the area they belong to. The people of Lambadi such as belongs to Rajasthan. the community prospered and converted in their entirety to Sikhism.Jaruplavath.mundi phoda.bhat.g..g.In Maharashtra also they are OBC category. Dhadi branch of the Mirasis are musicians..badawath (Vadatya) :.) . The bhalias are part of a dress code and it is believed to save anyone wearing them from curses or evil. bane bani 11 ramdas 12 dehavat or Devavat.- (Amgot. In Maharashtra they are called the Laman..-(kantiwal mudawath. which is a small drum.Amgoth.[13] dhadi equated with bhats the dhadi clans 1 Tajnath 2pochala 3 rathnavat or rathna 4 dungroth 5 sehravat 6 rudha or rudi 7 Baji 8 sagrawat or sugunavat 9 Bhimla 10 Bhagrawt or banavath .barmavath. ) bhukya :.52 "padha" or sub cast e.) pawar :. hindu cast dhadi is orginall bhat cast Gotras The Banjaras are grouped into five gotras..nanawath etc..g.tejavath. called "bhalia".white bangles..Eslavath..-(korravath. The Dhadi are associated with singing stanzas called karkha praising the soldiers of the Sikh guru’s armies as well as other hymns.etc.. Other instruments used are the sarangi.lakawath. the Gawaria of Haryana and Uttar Pradesh and Lavanaof Rajasthan. Related communities Three other castes that claim kinship with the Banjara are the Labana of Punjab.6 "padha" or sub cast e.- (Goram.etc.g.g..banjara are sub divided with sub caste as follows :.27 "padha" or sub cast e.jatoth. balladeers and panegyrists.) Jadav :.ajmera etc.tarbani.. Gormati and Banjara. Their name is derived from a dhad.pamadia.. The banjara community needs to be compared with the 'Harappa and Mahenjodaro' history to trace the origin and the pali language and the deep study of Sanskrit words to locate the foundation of their spoken language .dhalyawal.. the pakhwai (two ended drum) and daf (a tambourine).Ingravath.chevath pamr) chavan :. or super-families.daravath.meravath.lokavath. which they use.-(Khetavat.bani. Under the patronage of the sixth Sikh Guru Hargobind (1595 to 1644).mudh.vankdoth. also called goth or pada in Lambadi.Ivat pamar.Inlot pamar.52 "padha" or sub cast e.12 "padha" or sub cast e. 2. making Banoth as a separate gotra by itself and bringing the total to five gotras. and this state is known as kai-laageni (not-related). a term known as bhaipana (brotherhood).Pathlavath. Sevalal Maharaj Temple Sant Shree Sevalal Maharaj (Seva Bhaya) was born on 15. Ramji Naik Tanda when deserted by the end of 18th century.Dungavath. Members of different gotras may marry. which are generally used as surnames of its members. Nowadays the Banjarpoint website (coded by two Banjara software engineers) fulfills a similar function with gotra/jaath webpages to identify which can marry which.Rajavath. hindu cast dhadi is orginall bhat cast Gotras Marriage Members of the same gotra cannot marry as they are considered brother and sister. Others claim the Turi/Badawatis form an additional (sixth) gotra. Traditionally.In Banjara community marriages will take place for around three months with many celebrations. dhadi equated with bhats the dhadi clans 1 Tajnath 2pochala 3 rathnavat or rathna 4 dungroth 5 sehravat 6 rudha or rudi or rudavath 7 Baji 8 sagrawat or sugunavat 9 Bhimla 10 Bhagrawt or banavath . who come to the location with 360 families of his Tanda and about 4000 loaded cattles). the local people built a . Each gotra is divided into subdivisions called 'jaaths.Ketavath. bane bani 11 ramdas 12 dehavat or Devavat.In Rathod goras have many sub gotras Like Ramavath.nenavath.Some believe the Rahtod/Bhukya gotra is split into two.1739 to parents Shri Dharmani Yaadi (mother) and Shri Bhima Naik on this holy land around 274 years back.Dhegavath. etc. the jaaths of prospective couples are checked by experts known as dhadi bhaat who knew the gotra/jaath system and could identify proper marriages. At that time this location was popularly known as Ramagundam or Ramji Naik Tanda (Ramji Naik is grand father of Sevabhaya.Dharamshot. It is mentioned that “Gooty – Bellary – Ma – Janam lido Sevabhaya” (meaning : Sevabhaya was born at Gooty – Bellary). Gooty taluka was in the then Bellary District of the then Madras province of British Raj. Anandpur. It is also mentioned in the book “Sevadas Leelamrut” authored by Sant Shri Ramrao Maharaj of Pohragad (Sevabhaya’s Samadhi place) that Gooty Bellary was birthplace of Sevabhaya. During that period there was no separate District called Anantapur as the Anantapur town was part of Bellary District. Even well-known author. Nardhari. After lot of research works and explorations by many research scholar. linguistics. This land now falls in the revenue village of Peddadoddi. there are abundant folk songs and folklore sung and oral history is also told by Banjaras for last 250 years. Toda vala. historians particularly Banjara Dharmik Parishad of Bangalore have identified and proved this location as sevabhaya’s birthplace. in their native language. In Peddadoddi revenue village there is a piece of land of 18 acres next to dilapidated Ramji Naik Tanda and the same is shown in revenue records as “Nayakuni Bhoomi” (land of Nayak). worshipped in Chennakesava (Shiva) temple on the top of the Chandrayanagutta (hill) nearby Ramji Naik Tanda and grazed his cattle in “Zhoomri Jhol” (Forest of Palms). Akhand Brahmachari. Dist. Narbhedi. Shri Bhima Naik delivered his judgements to Banjaras of his and neighbouring Tandas from this Katta. Andhra Pradesh. He bathed in “Kalo Kundo” (transparent clean water of natural spring water pond).[5] Sant Shree Sevalal Maharaj is also called as Mothivala. Banjaras and non-Banjaras in the locality hold Bhima Naik Katta (platform) in high esteem and reverence since the “ORE” (residue) of Sant Shree Sevalal Maharaj is buried under the ground of this platform which is the tradition of the Banjaras to bury the residue after the delivery of the baby. poet and Banjara folk singer Shri Atmaram Rathod of Yevatmal (Maharashtra) has also established the same location in his popular book “Shri Sant Sevadas Leela Charitra” as Sevabhaya’s birthplace. In narration and in praise of Seva Bhaya’s life and deeds.village known as Chennarayani palle.. Bharosobhari etc. Seva Bhaya lived with his parents at this place up to the age of 12. . Taluk / Mandal – Gooty. Sant Shree Ramrao Maharaj is living Sant of Seventh generation of Shri Sevabhaya family. All the relics and monuments are existings even today. . Banjara Castes and sub Banjara Castes and Sub-Castes : Gotra ( Family) Tree Gor Banjara is not a caste but a tribe. 1 Banjara 12 Ladeniya 2 Banajara 13 Sugali Gawariya 3 Banjare 14 Gawar 4 Banjari 15 Gawar 5 Brijjari 16 Gawaliya 6 Brijwasi 17 Gawana 7 Labhan 18 Kangi 8 Lamani 19 Kanada Lambhad Sarakiban 9 20 i d . The All India Banjara Sewa Sangh has identified following names of Gor Banjaras in the country based on a nationwide study. Gor Banjara. All these and the like sub-castes are Gorvamshiyas. The list is as follows: Banjara Link Castes Banjara 1 Gor 8 Laman 2 Banjara 9 Labhan 1 3 Lambad Dhadi 0 . 1965.No. In Maharashtra the list of castes and sub-castes of Gor Banjara was announced by the Government of Maharashtra in 1965 as Free Castes vide G. 1 Lambhad 21 Sarakiwala 0 1 Singwale Baldiya 22 1 Banjara Sub-castes 1 Gor 10 Maniya 2 Mathura 11 Bagora 3 Dhaliya 12 Digora 4 Dhadi 13 Charan 5 Sanar 14 Bhat 6 Nhavi 15 Bazigar 7 Shingada 16 Rohidas 8 Jogi 17 Dhonkutte 9 Bham The word Banjara is attached in front of sub-castes e.O. CBC 1464/146691-M dated Feb.g. Banjara 4 The Gotra Family Tree Of Gor Banjaras The Clan (Gotra) is given more importance than lineage (Vamsha) in the socio-religious life of Gorvamshiyas. Gor are Chandravamshi’s Clan Of Rathos Lineage Bala and Bhika were the 2 sons of PHULSINGH and UDAIKARAN. whose origin is a real or imaginery one. The definition of clan (Gotra): Probably a Gotra is a combination of some lineages. Six sons of Bala  Malan  Mohan  Muchhal  Jatiya  Dharmasot  Barnot Two sons of Bhika  Menasi . 1 4 Labhani Dhaliya 1 1 Shingada 5 Lamani 2 Banjara Charan 1 6 Jogi Banjara Banjara 3 Laman 1 7 Banjari. He must memorize the names of chiefs of his earlier seven generations of his clan otherwise he is considered as Kamsal or incomplete person. Suryavamshi and Chandravamshi are the main lineages in Kshatriyas.  Malasi Four sons of Menasi  Dalu  Peri  Pota  Sadrath Ten sons of Malasi  Ramniya  Bochran  Dalbaan  Khalwan  Gopal  Modaricha  Kukrecha  Khatrot  Malpot  Bahadot Two sons of Khatrot  Daha  Bega  One son of Daha  Megha  One son of Megha .  Khamdhar Six sons of Megha  Anna  Arasi  Dunga  Lakhasi  Junasi  Dhunasi Seven sons of Khamdhar  Udawat  Kinsot  Palot  Dhanawar  Ramawat  Karmatot  Devsot Eight clans (Gotras) of Rathod  Bhukya’ from Bhika  Balanot’ from Bala  Dhalwan’ from Dhanawar  Munawat’ from Mohan  Jatot’ from Jatiya  Muchhal . A Bhat is said to be described the linage of Bhukiya as : Kaspot Dhudya – Kas ke Kanwar – Awaraj – Dhawaraj – Tarasinh – Rao – Ratan – Doharaj – Bhika – Bhukiya Jadhav Wadatiya Lineage Clan: Three sons of Wadatiya : Khetaji / Dhetaji / Netji Four sons of Khetaji  Lakha  Luna  Dhara  Gugul Six sons of Dhetji  Mala  Brahmawat  Bharat  Jethot  Bada  Boda (Pade Ajmera) Three sons of Netji  Hala  Khunasi  Teja .  Dharmasot The numbers of Pada of the Gotras are as under: Bhukya – 27 /Muchhal Kula 52 / Balnot – 12/ Munawat – 56. Pawar Clan Linage: 1) The seven sons of Kasturi further ran into 7 clans in Banjara viz. When Zarpala insisted on getting the money from Goram.Four Padas of Purushottam Panda ( Kilawat / Kalawat Brahmawat and Itrajarni) . This ritual was performed under a Banyan tree hence his name was also changed to Wadatiya. Zarpala said that he couldn’t return the money till Goram clears his debt. Winshalawat . The number of Padas of each Clan was: Palathya – 5. IV. Sapawat 5. Zarpala 2. When this fact came to light in all 16 panch (juries) heard the case and gave decision to marry the daughter with the Bhat and allowed the Bhat to become a Banjara. Lunsawat 7. Chawadiya – 5 padas. as Baba Brahman was a Wadatiya who had fallen in love with a Banjara girl of Zarpala clan. Goram 5. On the other hand Zarpala owed some money to a Bhat (regarded as Brahmin). Aamgot 3. Bakdot 4. he (Goram) kept his daughter as a mortgage with Zarpala and said that he will not show up again till he clears the debt and went to other region. Mud 3.The reason behind Purushottam Panda becoming a Banjara was that Purushottam Panda also known. Chauhan Clan Linage: Six sons of Tejmal – 1. Winjarawat 6. Mud – 13. Kuelut 6. Palathya 2. 1. Kurra 4. Chauradiya. When Bhat insisted on getting the money back. Legend says that one Banjara from Goram clan owed some money to a Banjara from Zarpala clan. Gradually he fell in love with the Goram’s daughter. Kurra – 42. On this the Bhat started a sit-in agitation and lived near Zarpala. All Rights Reserved. 2) Five clans originated from 5 sons of Hanjal viz. 1. Aariyot 2. Asalat.Some people treat the 12 clans as under: 1. Kitawat 11. Turi: 1. Winjarawat 6. Lunsawat 7. V. These 12 sons were responsible for the continuation of 12 clans afterwards. Kandawat 12. Banni 4. . Tirbani 5. Deglot. Wankadot 4. Zarpala 2. Phulawat 9. Wishalawat 8. Rajawat 3. Goram 5. Aamgot 3. Chhaiyot 10. Winjod Home | About Us | Social Work | Education | Cultural Activities | Night Schools | Contact Us Copyright © 2012 Aware Banjara Organisation. Jasawat 2. Chhaiyot 3. Tegawat 4.