Rajasthan
is land of varied culture and community. People of various castes and
sub-castes from various lands came and resided in Rajasthan, giving it a
cosmopolitan touch. According to the 2001 census Rajasthan has a population
of 56.5 million. Rajasthanis are generally stoutly built people of good
height.
Rajasthan Religion
The religion followed by Rajasthanis, in general, is the Hindu religion.
Various other religions are also prevalent in Rajasthan. Jainism is also
important; it has not been the religion of the rulers of Rajasthan but has
followers among the trading class and the wealthy section of society. Islam,
the religion of the State's second largest religious community, The State's
population of Christians and Sikhs, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, Parsi is
small.
Various Castes and Communities of Rajasthan
Rajputs form a major group of residents of Rajasthan.
Other castes found in Rajasthan are as folows : Brahmins, Vaishya, Jat,
Gurjar, Mali, Kalvi.
Many tribes are also found in different parts of Rajasthan. These tribes
have their own social systems and customs. Some of the commonly known tribes
are Meena, Bhil, Garasia, Sansi, Kanjar, Banjara.
Costumes
The religion and costumes of the tribes vary. They each have their own
religion, costumes and profession. Both males and females dress in the
customary dresses fully influenced by climate, economy, status and the
profession, they are engaged.
Starting from brocade garments of the royal family to the typical tie and
dye ghagra choli of the locales the variety of Rajasthani clothing is
endless. The cotton hand painted fabric from Sanganer, silk brocades,
dupattas and odhni with Zari work, mirror worked blouses, tied and dyed
dresses for both men and women, tying design and motifs in mehandi mandana
are some of the those related to the traditional attire of the state.
Besides clothing, the accessories that Rajasthani people wear are
characteristic of the state. The silver karas (bangles) worn by the women on
her hand and feet, the jootis made of camel skin, the turban worn by the
male are some of the things that add to the colorful image of Rajasthan.
But all this are fast changing now with Bushirt, Salwar and Skirts, Saris
and Pants accordingly.
Ornaments
Both men and women wear ornaments but with the passage of time, men are
giving up their use.The ornaments of gold and silver are more prevalent in
Rajasthan. There are certain ornaments which are used by men. In daily use
the ladies wear normal ornaments of neck, hand, nose and ear. On special
occasions and social functions, they wear all the ornaments of different
parts of the body to look beautiful and attractive.
