Tribes & Communities — Set 2
Rajasthan GK · जनजातियां और समुदाय · Questions 11–20 of 120
Guru Jambheshwar, founder of the Bishnoi sect, was born in which village?
Correct Answer: B. Pipasar
Guru Jambheshwar, the founder of the Bishnoi sect, was born in 1451 AD in the Pipasar village of Nagaur district in Rajasthan. He is also known as 'Jambhoji' or 'Bishnoi Dharam Ke Pretak'. He laid down 29 rules (principles) for his followers, hence the sect is called Bishnoi (Bish = 20, Noi = 9). His teachings emphasized environmental conservation and non-violence.
The Khejarli massacre of 1730 is associated with which community's sacrifice?
Correct Answer: C. Bishnoi
The Khejarli massacre of 1730 is associated with the Bishnoi community of Rajasthan. When soldiers of Maharaja Abhay Singh of Jodhpur came to cut Khejri trees for fuel for the palace, Amrita Devi and 362 other Bishnois sacrificed their lives by hugging the trees. A total of 363 Bishnois died protecting the trees. This event inspired the Chipko Movement centuries later and the Amrita Devi Bishnoi Award is given in their honor.
Which dance form is traditionally performed by Bhil women during festivals?
Correct Answer: B. Gair
The Gair dance is traditionally performed by Bhil men and women during the Holi festival and other occasions. It is a group circle dance where participants carry decorated sticks. The dance is performed to the rhythm of drums and other folk instruments. Gair is also popular among the Meena community and has become one of Rajasthan's representative folk dances.
What is the traditional weapon of the Bhil tribe?
Correct Answer: B. Bow and arrow (Dhanush-Baan)
The bow and arrow (Dhanush-Baan) is the traditional and iconic weapon of the Bhil tribe. Bhils are historically renowned as skilled archers. Their proficiency with the bow is mentioned in ancient texts and epics including the Mahabharata. The bow and arrow also holds cultural and religious significance in Bhil society and features prominently in their art and rituals.
The Meena tribe is primarily associated with which occupation historically?
Correct Answer: B. Revenue collection and guarding treasuries
Historically, the Meena tribe was associated with revenue collection and guarding royal treasuries in Rajasthan. The Meenas were known as reliable custodians and were employed by Rajput kings to guard their forts and treasure. This historical role gave them a certain status and influence. Today they are predominantly agriculturists but many serve in government services.
Which fair is specifically celebrated by the Meena tribe?
Correct Answer: C. Jeen Mata Fair
The Jeen Mata Fair held at Jeen Mata temple near Sikar is particularly important for the Meena tribe. Jeen Mata is considered the kuldevi (clan deity) of many Meena families. The fair is held twice a year during Navratri. Thousands of Meena pilgrims travel to this temple to offer prayers and seek blessings.
The Garasia tribe's marriage ceremony is unique because:
Correct Answer: B. It can involve elopement (mela pratha)
The Garasia tribe has a unique marriage tradition called 'Mela Pratha' where young men and women elope from a fair and live together. After some time, they formalize their union through a ritual. This practice gives young people freedom to choose their partners. The Garasias also practice a form of bride price (dahej) and have elaborate wedding rituals mixing Rajput and tribal customs.
Which community in Rajasthan is known for the Kalbelia dance form?
Correct Answer: B. Kalbelia (Sapera) community
The Kalbelia dance is performed by the Kalbelia community, also known as Saperas or snake charmers of Rajasthan. The dance mimics the movements of a cobra and is performed by women in swirling black skirts embroidered with silver thread. UNESCO included the Kalbelia folk songs and dances in its Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2010. Gulabo Sapera is the most famous Kalbelia dancer.
The Teratali dance of Rajasthan is performed by which community?
Correct Answer: B. Kamad community
The Teratali dance is performed by women of the Kamad community (also known as Kamadia) of Rajasthan. The performer sits cross-legged and ties 13 (tera) small brass cymbals (manjeeras) on various parts of her body and plays them skillfully. The dance is performed in honor of the folk deity Baba Ramdev. It is recognized as a unique art form of Rajasthan.
Which Rajasthan tribe is known for the Gavri/Gauri folk theater?
Correct Answer: B. Bhil
The Gavri (or Gauri) folk theater is a traditional ritualistic performance unique to the Bhil tribe of Rajasthan. It is performed after Raksha Bandhan and continues for 40 days. The performances depict mythological stories especially related to Shiva and Parvati. Gavri is considered one of India's oldest theatrical traditions and is performed as a form of devotion to the goddess Gauri.