Unveiling the Diversity of Uttar Pradesh: Top 5 Largest Tribes
Embark on a journey into the heart of India and discover the rich cultures and traditions of the Tharu, Bhotiya, Jaunsari, Raji, and Buksa tribes.
Yes, according to the 2011 census, these are the top 5 biggest tribes in Uttar Pradesh by population:
1. Tharu:
With more than 660,000 members, the Tharu tribe is the biggest in Uttar Pradesh. The districts of Bahraich, Shravasti, Lakhimpur Kheri, and Balrampur are where they are mostly found. The Tharu people are renowned for their own language, music, and dance, as well as their own culture and customs. They are also adept in weaving, fishing, and agriculture.
2. Bhotiya:
At more than 150,000, the Bhotiya tribe is the second biggest in Uttar Pradesh. The districts of Pithoragarh, Bageshwar, and Chamoli are where they are mostly found. The Bhotiya originate from Tibet and are closely related to their Tibetan counterparts in terms of culture. They are well-known for both their distinctive clothing and yak herding skills.
3. Jaunsari:
With a population of more than 120,000, the Jaunsari tribe is the third biggest in Uttar Pradesh. Their main locations are in the Uttarkashi and Dehradun districts. The Jaunsari are renowned for both their unusual language—a mix of Hindi and Tibetan—and their picturesque highland settlements. They are also adept at raising animals and farming.
4. Raji:
In Uttar Pradesh, the Raji tribe ranks fourth in terms of number, with approximately 100,000 members. The districts of Saharanpur, Muzaffarnagar, and Meerut are where they are mostly found. The Raji are renowned for their distinctive clothing and prowess in herding cattle. They are adept in weaving and agriculture as well.
5. Buksa:
With more than 70,000 members, the Buksa tribe is the sixth biggest in Uttar Pradesh. The districts of Sitapur, Lakhimpur Kheri, and Bahraich are where they are mostly found. In addition to farming and raising animals, the Buksa are renowned for their prowess in hunting and gathering.
Only a small portion of Uttar Pradesh's richly diverse tribal populations are represented by these five tribes. Every tribe has an own culture, set of customs, and way of life. Respecting and protecting these communities' cultural legacy is crucial.
In Uttar Pradesh, there are other lesser tribes in addition to the five mentioned above. The Gond, Sahariya, Baiga, Kol, and Pasi are some of these tribes. Every one of these tribes has a distinct history and way of life.
Uttar Pradesh's indigenous people are vital to the state's economy and society. They work in forestry, handicrafts, agriculture, and other fields. They also add to the diversity of cultures in the state.
Supporting the indigenous groups in Uttar Pradesh and making ensuring they have access to healthcare, education, and other necessities are crucial. Additionally, we have to endeavor to safeguard their cultural legacy for next generations.
Numerous online and in-person resources are available if you're interested in learning more about the indigenous groups of Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, you may go to tribal settlements and interact with the locals.