The Shepherds of India

Author: S S Shashi
Publisher: Sundeep Prakashan
Year: 1978
Language: English
Pages: 253
ISBN/UPC (if available): N/A

Description

This is the first sociological study of the shepherds of India, who are variously known as Dhangars, Kurubas, Palkshatriyas, Baghels, and so on, in particular areas. Though socially and economically backward, they claim to be the descendents of the Holkar dynasty, Ahilya Bai Holkar of Indore, the Pallavas, and the Maharajas of Vijay Nagar and Karoli.

A shepherd means a sheep rarer; and denotes more a profession than a caste as such. Even the Brahmins and Rajputs in hills rear sheep and goats. In fact, their Gotras show that more than 70 percent of them are Rajputs and 30 percent belong to various other castes and tribes.

They live in jungles, in hills, in villages and in towns. Here is an authentic and interesting study of nomads who once ruled. And of how they are today.

Contents

PREFACE

1. The Land and the People

2. Historical Background

3. Social Structure

4. A Socio-Economic Survey

5. Epilogue

APPENDICES

BIBLIOGRAPHY

INDEX

PLATES