Banjara Culture
Social Life of Banjara Community
The unique community life, language, religious customs, festivals, and ceremonies marked the socio-cultural life of Banjaras. Predominantly Banjara maintained a unique and separate tribal identity. They claimed to have descended from Rajput ancestry from Rajasthan region.
Banjaras, unlike any other people have a unique tradition of socio-cultural life, Thanda settlement, dress, language, festivals, gods, customs and manners as independent of public life. Dubois rightly pointed out that, “The Lambadis form a caste entirely distinct from the rest of Hindus being wholly different from them in religion, language, manners, and customs.” Mothiraj writes that Gorvamshiya(Banjara) had a unique culture, independent public life, unique tradition of livelihood, and much evident in their lifestyle, food habits, festivals, rituals, worship, likes and dislikes, dances, songs, languages, clothing and Thanda life. Nagarjuna Sagar in Nalgonda district of Andhra Pradesh is said to be the origin of Banjara dance and other cultural practices.
Banjara does not follow the caste system, rather have a clan system. However they follow Hinduism in their practice of religious and social life. During Deepavali and Holi Banjaras sacrifice goats to deities and go from house to house, dancing and receiving alms. The social and cultural life of Banjara distinguished them from other people.
Community Life
Banjara people live in “Thanda” keeping a distance from non-Banjara people. The community was held above the individual interests and “Naik”(head of the community) led the community both in matters of socio-political and religious life. The kinship and clan or sub-clan relationship enhanced the strong sense of communitarian life.
Banjara and Non-Banjara
The Banjara settlement was a sign that they did not mixed with others. Banjara lived outside the villages in camps keeping the distance from other non-Banjara people. This helped them to preserve their unique socio-cultural life, language, dress, the songs and religious life. However the introduction of modernism and rise of poverty among Banjaras forced them to mingle with others.
Banjara Settlement/Thanda
The settlement of Banjara in camps outside the non-Banjara habitations was called Thanda/encampment. It was their exclusive characteristic to live in “Thanda” which they acquired from the days of their nomadic life. In the modern times though have settled still continued to live in Thandas. The traditional house of Banjara looked very different from other non-Banjara house which is naturally built and easily dissolvable. As they have been assimilated into the main stream society government is providing permanent houses. The social life settings of Banjara was still experienced and visible in present day. Some peculiarities of Banjara settlements are given here.
Thanda Jury Board-Nasab
The political organization of Banjara tribe was headed by the Naik/chief for the disciplinary and juridical matters of the community. Naik is the head of the both spiritual and secular matters of the Thanda and governs his people standing in front. Each Nangar or Thanda was under a headman or Naik and this post could be mostly hereditary but sometimes people chose able person. The Thanda council is called Nasab or Thanda judiciary, dealt with matters related to adultery, rape, elopement, and family settlement. It also has got the power to impose fine and punishment to the offenders.
Thanda Jury Board is headed by Naik, and Karbhari who gives valuable suggestion to Naik for wellbeing of the Thanda. Normally there was no practice of going out to register cases in Police station or trial in courts; all cases are dealt within the Thanda judiciary which saves time, money, and reputation.
Structure of Thandsas
Naik : President
Karbhari : Secretary
Hasabi : Treasurer
Dawsan : Advisor
Asami : Member
Dhaliya : Thanda Musician
Sanar : Thanda Gold Smith
Hajam : Thanda Smith
Dhadi : Genealiogist
Geriya : Holi Organizer
Naik - A Leader / A chief or a Governor who exercises command over a group of people.
Naikda - Group of Naiks
Thanda - Village
In the judiciary system the dispute of two rivalry group will be solved by the "Panch" comprising of Naik, Karbhari, Dawasan and they do "Hassb-Nasab" in the meeting called "Malao".
Banjara Nomenclatures
Rabari Banjara: Sheepherder
Gawariya Banjara: Cowherder
Charan Banjara: Traders
Baldiya Banajara: Cowherder
Bazighar Banjara: Acrobat,Musicians
Gor Banjara: Salt Carrier
Mathura Banjara: Cow Protectors
Kangsya Banjara: Making wood comb
Lohar Banjara: Iron Items traders
"Banjara" is known as Vanijyyam in Sanskrit, Vanjara in Gujarathi, Banajara in Rajastani, Banjari in Marathi, Banjare in Urdu and Banzara in Hindi.
Culture
Banjara people have a unique cultural life and practices that differentiate them from others. The language, food, dress and ornaments, art and dance, body tattooing and ceremonies formed the cultural world of Banjara people. The influx of modern life style and growing contact with non-Banjara world had affected the Banjara cultural life.
The division of banjaras clans as Chawhan, Rathod, Pawar, Jadhav, are derived from the legends of Lords Krishna.
Language
The language of Banjara is known as “Gor boli” “Gor mati Boli, "Gore Wate" or “Brinjari,” an
independent dialect. The dialect spoken by Banjara/Roma Gypsy falls in the category of Indo-Aryan language. Robert Caldwell writes that “the Lambadis, the gypsies of peninsula, speak a dialect of Hindustani.” The dialect was spoken since the pre-Indus period in Gor provinces of Afghanistan, Baluchistan, Sindh, Punjab, Gujarat, Kethewada, Harappa and Mahenjodaro. Banjaras can easily understand the Hindi and Sanskrit language as about 90% words resembled with ‘Gor boli’. Gor Boli was spoken within the family and kin groups, and the regional/local languages were used to communicate with others.
Food
The traditional food of Banjara people were Daliya (mixed cereal), Bati (roti), Saloi (made from goat or sheep or pork blood and intestines), and Ghuggari (boiled cowpea, red gram, land gram etc.) and occasionally rice is used. ‘Patali baati’ was made from quality wheat or bazra or ragi and eat with chicken curry or boiled green leaves. They were found of non-vegetarian food except beef. The Banjara dogs were famous for hunting the wild animals.
Vegeterian
I would strongly recommend checking out book "Textiles of the Banjara" Cloth and Culture of a Wandering Tribe (Charllotte Kwon, Tim McLaughlin, Rosemary Crill) if you are interested about the clothing and designs.
The unique community life, language, religious customs, festivals, and ceremonies marked the socio-cultural life of Banjaras. Predominantly Banjara maintained a unique and separate tribal identity. They claimed to have descended from Rajput ancestry from Rajasthan region.
Banjaras, unlike any other people have a unique tradition of socio-cultural life, Thanda settlement, dress, language, festivals, gods, customs and manners as independent of public life. Dubois rightly pointed out that, “The Lambadis form a caste entirely distinct from the rest of Hindus being wholly different from them in religion, language, manners, and customs.” Mothiraj writes that Gorvamshiya(Banjara) had a unique culture, independent public life, unique tradition of livelihood, and much evident in their lifestyle, food habits, festivals, rituals, worship, likes and dislikes, dances, songs, languages, clothing and Thanda life. Nagarjuna Sagar in Nalgonda district of Andhra Pradesh is said to be the origin of Banjara dance and other cultural practices.
Banjara does not follow the caste system, rather have a clan system. However they follow Hinduism in their practice of religious and social life. During Deepavali and Holi Banjaras sacrifice goats to deities and go from house to house, dancing and receiving alms. The social and cultural life of Banjara distinguished them from other people.
Community Life
Banjara people live in “Thanda” keeping a distance from non-Banjara people. The community was held above the individual interests and “Naik”(head of the community) led the community both in matters of socio-political and religious life. The kinship and clan or sub-clan relationship enhanced the strong sense of communitarian life.
Banjara and Non-Banjara
The Banjara settlement was a sign that they did not mixed with others. Banjara lived outside the villages in camps keeping the distance from other non-Banjara people. This helped them to preserve their unique socio-cultural life, language, dress, the songs and religious life. However the introduction of modernism and rise of poverty among Banjaras forced them to mingle with others.
Banjara Settlement/Thanda
The settlement of Banjara in camps outside the non-Banjara habitations was called Thanda/encampment. It was their exclusive characteristic to live in “Thanda” which they acquired from the days of their nomadic life. In the modern times though have settled still continued to live in Thandas. The traditional house of Banjara looked very different from other non-Banjara house which is naturally built and easily dissolvable. As they have been assimilated into the main stream society government is providing permanent houses. The social life settings of Banjara was still experienced and visible in present day. Some peculiarities of Banjara settlements are given here.
Thanda Jury Board-Nasab
The political organization of Banjara tribe was headed by the Naik/chief for the disciplinary and juridical matters of the community. Naik is the head of the both spiritual and secular matters of the Thanda and governs his people standing in front. Each Nangar or Thanda was under a headman or Naik and this post could be mostly hereditary but sometimes people chose able person. The Thanda council is called Nasab or Thanda judiciary, dealt with matters related to adultery, rape, elopement, and family settlement. It also has got the power to impose fine and punishment to the offenders.
Thanda Jury Board is headed by Naik, and Karbhari who gives valuable suggestion to Naik for wellbeing of the Thanda. Normally there was no practice of going out to register cases in Police station or trial in courts; all cases are dealt within the Thanda judiciary which saves time, money, and reputation.
Structure of Thandsas
Naik : President
Karbhari : Secretary
Hasabi : Treasurer
Dawsan : Advisor
Asami : Member
Dhaliya : Thanda Musician
Sanar : Thanda Gold Smith
Hajam : Thanda Smith
Dhadi : Genealiogist
Geriya : Holi Organizer
Naik - A Leader / A chief or a Governor who exercises command over a group of people.
Naikda - Group of Naiks
Thanda - Village
In the judiciary system the dispute of two rivalry group will be solved by the "Panch" comprising of Naik, Karbhari, Dawasan and they do "Hassb-Nasab" in the meeting called "Malao".
Banjara Nomenclatures
- Banjara: An Arrow, Banaj in Hindi
- Vanjari/Vanjara: Burners of Forest(Van+Chara)
- Lambadi: Long Body, Lamb+Bada, Lavana
- Lamani: Lavana,Lavuk
- Labhan: Salt Carriers, Lavan
- Lobhan: Lun(Salt)+Bana(Trade)
- Lubana: Rice Marchant
- Gawariya: Cattle Breeders
- Charan: Cattle
- Gor/Gawariya: Cattle Bleeders
Rabari Banjara: Sheepherder
Gawariya Banjara: Cowherder
Charan Banjara: Traders
Baldiya Banajara: Cowherder
Bazighar Banjara: Acrobat,Musicians
Gor Banjara: Salt Carrier
Mathura Banjara: Cow Protectors
Kangsya Banjara: Making wood comb
Lohar Banjara: Iron Items traders
"Banjara" is known as Vanijyyam in Sanskrit, Vanjara in Gujarathi, Banajara in Rajastani, Banjari in Marathi, Banjare in Urdu and Banzara in Hindi.
Banjara people have a unique cultural life and practices that differentiate them from others. The language, food, dress and ornaments, art and dance, body tattooing and ceremonies formed the cultural world of Banjara people. The influx of modern life style and growing contact with non-Banjara world had affected the Banjara cultural life.
The division of banjaras clans as Chawhan, Rathod, Pawar, Jadhav, are derived from the legends of Lords Krishna.
Language
The language of Banjara is known as “Gor boli” “Gor mati Boli, "Gore Wate" or “Brinjari,” an
independent dialect. The dialect spoken by Banjara/Roma Gypsy falls in the category of Indo-Aryan language. Robert Caldwell writes that “the Lambadis, the gypsies of peninsula, speak a dialect of Hindustani.” The dialect was spoken since the pre-Indus period in Gor provinces of Afghanistan, Baluchistan, Sindh, Punjab, Gujarat, Kethewada, Harappa and Mahenjodaro. Banjaras can easily understand the Hindi and Sanskrit language as about 90% words resembled with ‘Gor boli’. Gor Boli was spoken within the family and kin groups, and the regional/local languages were used to communicate with others.
Banjara Women in India in their traditional attire | Photo by Tim McLaughlin
The traditional food of Banjara people were Daliya (mixed cereal), Bati (roti), Saloi (made from goat or sheep or pork blood and intestines), and Ghuggari (boiled cowpea, red gram, land gram etc.) and occasionally rice is used. ‘Patali baati’ was made from quality wheat or bazra or ragi and eat with chicken curry or boiled green leaves. They were found of non-vegetarian food except beef. The Banjara dogs were famous for hunting the wild animals.
Vegeterian
- Sangai
- Toti Tadi
- Laapsi
- Kheer
- Galwani
- Kardao
- Kado
- Raabdi
- Churmo
- Bhunji Lapsi
- Boti-bati
- Saloi
- Bhang
- Ghota
- Doodh
- Gholya
The Banjara women wore a colorful dress with rich embroidery, jewellary and mirror patch works. Their dress include Phetiya (the skirt), kanchali (blouse), Kurta (the top), Chantiya (the veil). The ornaments used were: Baliya(bangles), Kasautiya(armlet), sadak(skirts decorated with draw string), Gagri/topli(clips worn by married women), Pawlar Haar/Haasli(the necklace made of coins), Bhuriya (nose ring), finger rings, Ghoogri-Chotla(metal flowers and balls suspended from the hair), kolda(leg ankle rings), which were different from others. Banjara men wear Dhoti, Kurtha or long shirt and pagadi (turban) with multiple rounds. However, due to the influence of modern developments there is a gradual change taking place in their dress and ornaments of Banjara women.
All the jewellery, ornaments and clothing can weigh up to 6kgs (13 Pounds)
"Kanchali" or a "Choli" (Women's Blouse)
Handmade Embroidery of Banjara women in the Kutch District of western India
Banjara Handmade Coin Necklace
For the Banjara, embroidery is inscribed within a set of oppositions: the communal and the individual, the historic and the contemporary, the traditional and the modern. Materials, motifs, colors, and execution are combined to create utilitarian artifacts that have both talismanic and auspicious powers: works are made to act as highly visible displays of skill and belonging. Men wear "Dhoti" and "Kurta". These clothes were designed for the protection from harsh climate in deserts and to distinguish them from others. A coarse turban forms the headgear of a Banjara men, they are mostly seen dressed up in tight breeches, which extend a few inches below the knee.
Art and Dance
The Banjara women’s best art work is seen on their costumes and dress with rich embroidery. 54 K. S. Singh mentioned that “The art of body tattooing and crafts like embroidery (cloth), carpentry, and balcksmithy were practiced by them. Community possessed the oral traditions, folk-tales, and folk-lore in which their history was continued. Folk songs were sung by both men and women. Percussion, bronze plates and cymbals were their musical instruments.” Banjara dance was famous in which both men and women danced to the tune of Drum (nangara) and songs. Due to the impact of modernism many of its cultural identities were slowly lost.
Banjara Literature
Traditionally, Banjaras never kept any written records nor sustained an oral history due to their frequent travels. Banjara dialect does not have script hence the history and tradition of Banjaras are reflected in the form of songs, ritual songs, folklores, stories, myths, proverbs and phrases. Hiralal says that their history and songs were learnt by heart and transmitted orally from generation to generation.
Due to the impact of modern influence on younger generation, much of the oral history and songs were lost and therefore the local script is used to write and preserve the rich traditional history of Banjara.
Economic Life of Banjara Community
Before the establishment of British colonialism in India, the economic life of Banjara had flourished through trade on packed bullocks. During colonial times as the new transport, market and circulation system were developed, free pass was restricted and tax were laid on sale by the Banjara. As a result the economic life of Banjara was put to death. Francis in this regard writes:
“They used to live by pack-bullock trade, and they still remember the names of some of the generals who employed their forebears. When peace and the railways came and did away with these callings, they fell back for a time upon crime as a livelihood, but they have now mostly taken to agriculture and grazing.”
As their business diminished, they resorted to dacoities and cattle stealing. Majority Banjara live under severe poverty and in the modern times a very few hold white collar jobs. Tanaji G Rathod who did a study on socio-economic life of Banjara in Karnataka says that due to illiteracy, alcoholism, crimes, anarchy, exclusion from outside world, rigidity, and ignorance and lack awareness of situations Banjara were still under the severe poverty. The loss of their livelihood led to indulge in various types of crimes 68 and unsocial works. Despite various programs by the governments, NGOs, and self-help groups the economic condition of Banjara remains pathetic.
The Banjara migrants who have settled in Bagepalli taluk about two centuries ago have not been assimilated into the main stream economic life. Poverty, food insecurity, debts, and economic difficulties prevailed among them. 69 People constantly move to distant places for earning livelihood. As a result during off season and whenever possible migrate to the cities.
Land and Banjara people
A few Banjara owned land, but majority were landless laborers and still live the migratory life. Land gives the identity and autonomy to the people which Banjara does not have. Banjara, the nomads, had never own land, but always on move from one place to another. Banjara people were pushed to the periphery, and were controlled by the local land lords.
Religious Life of the Banjara People
Banjara were animists or nature worshippers. In the Banjara religious world the animal sacrifices, ceremonies, gods, house, ancestors, stories and myths, sin and punishment, and future of death occupy the centre stage. The religious life of Banjara worshipped Nature, Sun, Fire, Water, and the Earth. The festivals, gods, rituals, and beliefs, ceremonies were peculiar to Banjara people. Banjara follow Hinduism but practices in their own way. Iyer writes that “Banjaras resemble other Hindus in their religious faith and worship all the gods of the Hindu Pantheon.” They worship lord Krishna, Bull, Hanuman, lord Venkateshwara, and Shiva besides their tribal gods Tulja Devi, Banashankari, Maramma, and Huliamma, Mittu Bhukiya, Banjari Devi, and Siva Bhiya/Sheval Bhaiya. They also worship cattle. Whole community participates in the religious celebrations, but only men perform the ritual.
Festivals
The festivals also distinguished Banjaras from others as festivals brought identity and vigor to the community life. Banjara celebrate the Hindu festivals Dusshera, Diwali, Ugadi, Holi, Ganesh Chathurthi, and in recent times they also celebrate the New Year. During Holi women go around villages, perform kolata (Holi dance) and collect alms for celebrations. On full moon day early morning both men and women gather around the fire to quench their desires. Both men and women will have great fun letting their vent to various propositions. Teej is famous festival of Banjara where both boys and girls come out to enjoy in celebration.. Bhog is another important celebration of Banjara during which the new born child’s hair cutting will be held and child was dedicated.
Teej
Banjara women were not strictly subordinated to men and at the same time not fully free. Women were allowed to divorce, remarry, and also if unjustly deserted she will be given half the portion of husbands property. Women also involved in agriculture, animal husbandry, collection of firewood, cattle breeding, and they contribute to the income of the family by making liquor. The women can participate in social, religious and political activities but only men have the voice and perform the ritual ceremonies
The Thanda nasab was male hierarchical and women were not allowed to head the Thanda. The property and succession in the family devolves upon the eldest son. In the modern times due to the influence of outside society, modern education and contact with outside world the role and place of women was changing and women have been given a good place.
Sacrifices
Banjara were a non-vegetarians and offered sacrifices during marriage, festivals, rituals, journey, and celebrations. On occasions such as sickness, death, and pilgrimages sacrifices was offered. For invoking the blessings of gods and their legendary ancestors Banjara people offered animals and it was an important part of Banjara religious life.
Ancestor Worship
Banjara were animists and worshiped nature viz., sun, moon, water, trees, wind, fire, earth and cow. Banjara have a strong belief in ancestors and during Diwali and Holi festivals, on the day of ‘Pitrupuja’ they mix cooked rice with Jaggary and Ghee (clarified butter), and offer it on fire, it is known as “Dhabkar.” Also sweets, goat curry, and liquor were offered to their ancestors. This ritual is performed by only men, women were not allowed. In the common worship or prayer both men and women participate, normally in the evening. Normally the place of worship will be in the east side of the Thanda and but facing West side they pray with folded hands. Head of the family or Thanda will lead this prayer. Even today this practice was continued among them.
Spirits/Demons
Banjara people believed in magic, sorcery, and spirits for good and bad purposes. For good purpose such as health, successful travel, while going for dacoiti, to find offenders, the Bhagat or janiya, the witch doctor was consulted. For bad purpose such as to harm, bring sickness, and death, breaking the family, and any bad works the dakun(witch) was consulted. There was a belief that the spirit of those who had died due to suicide, poison consumption, unnatural death and with gross sins will be turned into demons(Bhoot) and troubled people. Since Banjara lived in seclusion and away from outsiders they highly believed in them.
Rituals of Death
According to the Banjara traditional custom the dead persons were buried with their head facing to the North and legs towards the South. Gor people still follow this direction while burying the dead. In Some places Banjara people burn the married person on funeral pyre and unmarried were buried.
The word “Samgo” or “Saat Wego” is used to convey the news of a dead person. Whole Thanda is gathered in front of the bereaved family to express solidarity in their sorrow by part-taking water from a single pot.
On the third day the relatives collect donations and cut a goat to give food to the bereaved family. As a custom the ritual is performed outside the Thanda under a tree where the relatives and Naik prepare rice cake, mix with jiggery and Ghee which is called “Churmo”. After offering the water and Churmo to the dead person the remaining is shared among them. 76 The Churmo is eaten in the same place and not allowed to take home. No other community or people practice such a ritual to a dead person.
Belief of Sin and Salvation
Banjara exactly do not believe in Sin and Salvation but believed that a person’s future is based on his/her works. According to Banjara for an unjust cause if any person does wrong or commits crime is a sin and will go to hell. For a just cause or without knowing if any wrong is done it is pardonable. The unjustly sinned person will be thrown into the “angaarer Khuvema” (well of fire) and is tormented forever.
Banjara believe in life after death or in salvation of the soul. The righteous person will go to Hariyali Bag.” The soul will rest in a place where happiness exists and there is no thirst or hunger, the person will live in eternity. Therefore, they never harm the Mother Nature and before venturing into any works they asked forgiveness for any untoward works done.
Sorcery, Magic/Charms
Before venturing into any works Banjara people invoked their ancestors for fruitful result in their journey, robbery, work or family and for fortune. They had also used magic, charms, and sorcery for both good and bad purposes. Especially for healing the Banjara witch doctor was highly consulted.
Use of Intoxicants
Liquor, Bhang, hookah, beedi, tobacco, and chewing beetle nut/leaf, have been part and parcel of Banjara life. Without liquor no Banjara programs were held. Banjara women and men brewed the alcohol at their homes and in nearby hills. Because of the use of intoxicants poverty, debts, health problems, bonded labor and illiteracy prevailed among them.
Conclusion
Banjara were one of the ancient nomadic tribes of India which possessed a peculiar habitation, history, culture, religious and social practices, festivals, language, folk lore, dress, governing system, understanding of death, sin and salvation. The Thanda living helped Banjara people to preserve their traditional and cultural practices undefiled from outsiders. At various point of times and due to various reasons Banjaras had migrated to Europe through Asia Minor and Greece. The British colonialism had uprooted them from their nomadic trade, culture and social life by branding them as criminals. Many tribal characteristics, cultural and social practices have under gone tremendous change. Severe poverty among Banjara had forced them to migrate to the cities where they came in contact with modern culture, language, lifestyle, and living system which impacted on their tribal life. At this juncture of transition in early 1970s Christianity entered the Banjara community (In South Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka)
References:
http://www.sintiroma.org/images/dalit/Babu_History_Banjara.pdf
http://tribes-of-india.blogspot.com/2009/07/lambani-tribe-western-india.html
https://www.lambadiwala.tk/p/culture.html
Photos:
Art and Dance
The Banjara women’s best art work is seen on their costumes and dress with rich embroidery. 54 K. S. Singh mentioned that “The art of body tattooing and crafts like embroidery (cloth), carpentry, and balcksmithy were practiced by them. Community possessed the oral traditions, folk-tales, and folk-lore in which their history was continued. Folk songs were sung by both men and women. Percussion, bronze plates and cymbals were their musical instruments.” Banjara dance was famous in which both men and women danced to the tune of Drum (nangara) and songs. Due to the impact of modernism many of its cultural identities were slowly lost.
Banjara Literature
Traditionally, Banjaras never kept any written records nor sustained an oral history due to their frequent travels. Banjara dialect does not have script hence the history and tradition of Banjaras are reflected in the form of songs, ritual songs, folklores, stories, myths, proverbs and phrases. Hiralal says that their history and songs were learnt by heart and transmitted orally from generation to generation.
Due to the impact of modern influence on younger generation, much of the oral history and songs were lost and therefore the local script is used to write and preserve the rich traditional history of Banjara.
Economic Life of Banjara Community
Before the establishment of British colonialism in India, the economic life of Banjara had flourished through trade on packed bullocks. During colonial times as the new transport, market and circulation system were developed, free pass was restricted and tax were laid on sale by the Banjara. As a result the economic life of Banjara was put to death. Francis in this regard writes:
“They used to live by pack-bullock trade, and they still remember the names of some of the generals who employed their forebears. When peace and the railways came and did away with these callings, they fell back for a time upon crime as a livelihood, but they have now mostly taken to agriculture and grazing.”
As their business diminished, they resorted to dacoities and cattle stealing. Majority Banjara live under severe poverty and in the modern times a very few hold white collar jobs. Tanaji G Rathod who did a study on socio-economic life of Banjara in Karnataka says that due to illiteracy, alcoholism, crimes, anarchy, exclusion from outside world, rigidity, and ignorance and lack awareness of situations Banjara were still under the severe poverty. The loss of their livelihood led to indulge in various types of crimes 68 and unsocial works. Despite various programs by the governments, NGOs, and self-help groups the economic condition of Banjara remains pathetic.
The Banjara migrants who have settled in Bagepalli taluk about two centuries ago have not been assimilated into the main stream economic life. Poverty, food insecurity, debts, and economic difficulties prevailed among them. 69 People constantly move to distant places for earning livelihood. As a result during off season and whenever possible migrate to the cities.
Land and Banjara people
A few Banjara owned land, but majority were landless laborers and still live the migratory life. Land gives the identity and autonomy to the people which Banjara does not have. Banjara, the nomads, had never own land, but always on move from one place to another. Banjara people were pushed to the periphery, and were controlled by the local land lords.
Religious Life of the Banjara People
Banjara were animists or nature worshippers. In the Banjara religious world the animal sacrifices, ceremonies, gods, house, ancestors, stories and myths, sin and punishment, and future of death occupy the centre stage. The religious life of Banjara worshipped Nature, Sun, Fire, Water, and the Earth. The festivals, gods, rituals, and beliefs, ceremonies were peculiar to Banjara people. Banjara follow Hinduism but practices in their own way. Iyer writes that “Banjaras resemble other Hindus in their religious faith and worship all the gods of the Hindu Pantheon.” They worship lord Krishna, Bull, Hanuman, lord Venkateshwara, and Shiva besides their tribal gods Tulja Devi, Banashankari, Maramma, and Huliamma, Mittu Bhukiya, Banjari Devi, and Siva Bhiya/Sheval Bhaiya. They also worship cattle. Whole community participates in the religious celebrations, but only men perform the ritual.
Festivals
The festivals also distinguished Banjaras from others as festivals brought identity and vigor to the community life. Banjara celebrate the Hindu festivals Dusshera, Diwali, Ugadi, Holi, Ganesh Chathurthi, and in recent times they also celebrate the New Year. During Holi women go around villages, perform kolata (Holi dance) and collect alms for celebrations. On full moon day early morning both men and women gather around the fire to quench their desires. Both men and women will have great fun letting their vent to various propositions. Teej is famous festival of Banjara where both boys and girls come out to enjoy in celebration.. Bhog is another important celebration of Banjara during which the new born child’s hair cutting will be held and child was dedicated.
Teej
- Teej perer
- Kal Dhud layaer
- Barer Phere pherer,
- Boy-Girl Sakthar
- Girls retorts
- Teej toder
- Verayer
- Gangore Poojer
- Khuti Mungri
- Bhagat
- Ghat verayer
- Kali Amawas Pooja
- Laxmi pooja
- Gowdhan pooja
- Mera Maanger
- Ubheti Lengi
- Dundh Song
- Khuta Wakder
- Phagnam
- Bhand lengi
- gerni Bhand Lengi
- Holi Fire
Banjara women were not strictly subordinated to men and at the same time not fully free. Women were allowed to divorce, remarry, and also if unjustly deserted she will be given half the portion of husbands property. Women also involved in agriculture, animal husbandry, collection of firewood, cattle breeding, and they contribute to the income of the family by making liquor. The women can participate in social, religious and political activities but only men have the voice and perform the ritual ceremonies
The Thanda nasab was male hierarchical and women were not allowed to head the Thanda. The property and succession in the family devolves upon the eldest son. In the modern times due to the influence of outside society, modern education and contact with outside world the role and place of women was changing and women have been given a good place.
Sacrifices
Banjara were a non-vegetarians and offered sacrifices during marriage, festivals, rituals, journey, and celebrations. On occasions such as sickness, death, and pilgrimages sacrifices was offered. For invoking the blessings of gods and their legendary ancestors Banjara people offered animals and it was an important part of Banjara religious life.
Ancestor Worship
Banjara were animists and worshiped nature viz., sun, moon, water, trees, wind, fire, earth and cow. Banjara have a strong belief in ancestors and during Diwali and Holi festivals, on the day of ‘Pitrupuja’ they mix cooked rice with Jaggary and Ghee (clarified butter), and offer it on fire, it is known as “Dhabkar.” Also sweets, goat curry, and liquor were offered to their ancestors. This ritual is performed by only men, women were not allowed. In the common worship or prayer both men and women participate, normally in the evening. Normally the place of worship will be in the east side of the Thanda and but facing West side they pray with folded hands. Head of the family or Thanda will lead this prayer. Even today this practice was continued among them.
Spirits/Demons
Banjara people believed in magic, sorcery, and spirits for good and bad purposes. For good purpose such as health, successful travel, while going for dacoiti, to find offenders, the Bhagat or janiya, the witch doctor was consulted. For bad purpose such as to harm, bring sickness, and death, breaking the family, and any bad works the dakun(witch) was consulted. There was a belief that the spirit of those who had died due to suicide, poison consumption, unnatural death and with gross sins will be turned into demons(Bhoot) and troubled people. Since Banjara lived in seclusion and away from outsiders they highly believed in them.
Rituals of Death
According to the Banjara traditional custom the dead persons were buried with their head facing to the North and legs towards the South. Gor people still follow this direction while burying the dead. In Some places Banjara people burn the married person on funeral pyre and unmarried were buried.
The word “Samgo” or “Saat Wego” is used to convey the news of a dead person. Whole Thanda is gathered in front of the bereaved family to express solidarity in their sorrow by part-taking water from a single pot.
On the third day the relatives collect donations and cut a goat to give food to the bereaved family. As a custom the ritual is performed outside the Thanda under a tree where the relatives and Naik prepare rice cake, mix with jiggery and Ghee which is called “Churmo”. After offering the water and Churmo to the dead person the remaining is shared among them. 76 The Churmo is eaten in the same place and not allowed to take home. No other community or people practice such a ritual to a dead person.
Belief of Sin and Salvation
Banjara exactly do not believe in Sin and Salvation but believed that a person’s future is based on his/her works. According to Banjara for an unjust cause if any person does wrong or commits crime is a sin and will go to hell. For a just cause or without knowing if any wrong is done it is pardonable. The unjustly sinned person will be thrown into the “angaarer Khuvema” (well of fire) and is tormented forever.
Banjara believe in life after death or in salvation of the soul. The righteous person will go to Hariyali Bag.” The soul will rest in a place where happiness exists and there is no thirst or hunger, the person will live in eternity. Therefore, they never harm the Mother Nature and before venturing into any works they asked forgiveness for any untoward works done.
Sorcery, Magic/Charms
Before venturing into any works Banjara people invoked their ancestors for fruitful result in their journey, robbery, work or family and for fortune. They had also used magic, charms, and sorcery for both good and bad purposes. Especially for healing the Banjara witch doctor was highly consulted.
Use of Intoxicants
Liquor, Bhang, hookah, beedi, tobacco, and chewing beetle nut/leaf, have been part and parcel of Banjara life. Without liquor no Banjara programs were held. Banjara women and men brewed the alcohol at their homes and in nearby hills. Because of the use of intoxicants poverty, debts, health problems, bonded labor and illiteracy prevailed among them.
Conclusion
Banjara were one of the ancient nomadic tribes of India which possessed a peculiar habitation, history, culture, religious and social practices, festivals, language, folk lore, dress, governing system, understanding of death, sin and salvation. The Thanda living helped Banjara people to preserve their traditional and cultural practices undefiled from outsiders. At various point of times and due to various reasons Banjaras had migrated to Europe through Asia Minor and Greece. The British colonialism had uprooted them from their nomadic trade, culture and social life by branding them as criminals. Many tribal characteristics, cultural and social practices have under gone tremendous change. Severe poverty among Banjara had forced them to migrate to the cities where they came in contact with modern culture, language, lifestyle, and living system which impacted on their tribal life. At this juncture of transition in early 1970s Christianity entered the Banjara community (In South Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka)
References:
http://www.sintiroma.org/images/dalit/Babu_History_Banjara.pdf
http://tribes-of-india.blogspot.com/2009/07/lambani-tribe-western-india.html
https://www.lambadiwala.tk/p/culture.html
Photos:
- Banjara Women in India in their traditional attire | Photo by Tim McLaughlin | http://tmcl.ca/
- Kanchali or a Choli (Women's Blouse) | Photo Courtesy: friendskorner.com/forum
- Handmade Embroidery of Banjara women in the Kutch District of western India | Photo Courtesy: www.etsy.com
- Banjara Handmade Coin Necklace | Picture Courtesy: www.amazon.com
Banjara- The Truck Driver – Varinder Singh Kattad Fan of Babbu Maan and Punjabi singer Babbu Maan Fans
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