Tribes & Communities — Set 1

Correct Answer: B. Bhil

The Bhil tribe is the largest scheduled tribe in Rajasthan with a population of over 46 lakh as per recent census data. They are mainly concentrated in the southern districts like Udaipur, Banswara, Dungarpur, and Chittorgarh. The Bhils are known for their warrior history and distinctive cultural practices. They speak the Bhili language and have a rich oral tradition.

Correct Answer: C. Meena

The Meena (also spelled Mina) tribe is the second largest scheduled tribe in Rajasthan after the Bhils. They are primarily found in the Jaipur, Sawai Madhopur, Dausa, Tonk, and Alwar districts. Meenas have historically been associated with administration and revenue collection. They celebrate their own unique festivals and follow distinct customs.

Correct Answer: B. Sirohi and Pali

The Garasia tribe is mainly concentrated in the Sirohi and Pali districts of Rajasthan. They are also found in parts of Abu Road tehsil. Garasias are considered a sub-group of the Rajput community and have blended tribal and Rajput customs. They are known for their distinctive folk songs called 'Ghoomar'.

Correct Answer: C. Baran

The Saharia tribe is primarily concentrated in the Baran district of Rajasthan, particularly in the Shahabad and Kishangarh tehsils. They are considered one of the most primitive tribal groups in Rajasthan. The Sahariya are forest-dwellers and their livelihood is closely linked to forests. They are also found in small numbers in Kota and Jhalawar districts.

Correct Answer: B. Bhagoria

Bhagoria is the most important and famous festival of the Bhil tribe celebrated before Holi. During this fair young men and women freely choose their life partners in a tradition called 'bhagoria'. The festival is celebrated with music, dance, and traditional food. It is a unique expression of Bhil social customs and tribal democracy.

Correct Answer: C. Pal

The traditional cluster of houses or hamlet of the Bhil tribe is called 'Pal' or 'Faliya'. A Pal typically consists of houses of related families grouped together. The Bhil house is usually made of mud walls with a thatched roof. The Pal serves as the basic social unit of Bhil community life.

Correct Answer: B. Dungarpur

The Damor tribe is mainly found in the Dungarpur district of Rajasthan. They are also present in parts of Banswara district. Damors are considered a sub-tribe of the Bhil community. They speak a dialect closely related to Bhili and share many cultural practices with the Bhils.

Correct Answer: D. All of these

The correct answer is 'All of these'. Tattooing, locally known as 'Godna', is practiced across multiple tribal communities of Rajasthan including Bhils, Meenas, and Garasias. Godna is considered a permanent ornament and has religious and social significance. It is traditionally done by women of the community using thorns and natural dyes. The patterns and designs vary by community and region.

Correct Answer: D. Pal Panchayat

The traditional governance system of the Bhil tribe is called the 'Pal Panchayat'. The head of this system is called the 'Pal Mukhia' or 'Gameti'. The Pal Panchayat resolves disputes, maintains social order, and organizes community events. This system has coexisted with the constitutional panchayati raj system in tribal areas.

Correct Answer: B. Trees and animals, especially the Khejri tree

The Bishnoi community of Rajasthan is famous for their deep reverence for trees and animals, especially the Khejri tree (Prosopis cineraria). They follow 29 principles laid down by Guru Jambheshwar in 1485 AD, which include protection of wildlife and forests. The 1730 Khejarli massacre, where 363 Bishnois sacrificed their lives to protect Khejri trees, is a landmark event. This community is considered pioneers of environmental conservation in India.