Patwari Exam · Rajasthan GK

Tribes of Rajasthan

This note introduces Rajasthan's major tribes and communities — Bhil, Meena, Garasia, Sahariya and others — their habitats and cultural identity.

Key Facts

Bhil tribe: Rajasthan's largest tribe; lives in Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Banswara and Dungarpur; famous for the Bhagoria festival.
Meena tribe: The second largest tribe; found in Jaipur, Dausa, Sawai Madhopur and Alwar; the name comes from "meen" (fish).
Garasia tribe: Found in the Abu Road area; practises the "Walra" farming system (shifting cultivation); has the "Mor Bandhiya" marriage custom.
Sahariya tribe: Found in Baran district; Rajasthan's only Primitive Tribal Group; the Shergarh Sanctuary falls within their area.
Kalbelia community: Found in Barmer-Jodhpur; a snake-charmer community, identified by black clothing, snake-catching and dance.
Kanjar tribe: Found in Kota-Baran; a nomadic tribe; has the "Santhara" practice (linked to Jain tradition).
Gadulia Lohar: Nomadic blacksmiths who do ironwork at crowded fairs; they vowed never to return to the city after the fall of Chittor.
Rabari tribe: Found in western Rajasthan; engaged in animal husbandry; has sub-groups such as "Dhebaria" and "Gujar Rabari."
Banjara community: Traders of salt and grain; worship Tejaji; known for colourful traditional attire.
Scheduled Tribe population: Scheduled Tribes make up about 13.5% of Rajasthan's total population (2011).

Which is Rajasthan's largest tribe?+

The Bhil is Rajasthan's largest tribe, living in Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Banswara and Dungarpur.

Which is Rajasthan's only Primitive Tribal Group?+

The Sahariya tribe (Baran district) is Rajasthan's only Primitive Tribal Group, whose area includes the Shergarh Sanctuary.

What is the Scheduled Tribe population in Rajasthan?+

According to the 2011 census, Scheduled Tribes make up about 13.5% of Rajasthan's total population.