HPAS Notes: Cultural & Social Demography
1. Prehistoric Context: Evidence of Early Life
Discovery of Quartzite Implements
Fair reasons exist to believe that life existed in this part of the world during the earliest periods of human evolution, based on specific archaeological finds:
- Olaf Prufer (1951): Discovered quartzite implements in the Shivalik foothills near Nalagarh at the banks of the ‘Sirsa river’.
- B.B. Lal (1955): Discovered implements in Kangra district at Dehra and Guler on the banks of the Beas and Ban Ganga.
The Two Distinctive Cultural Zones
From a cultural point of view, Himachal Pradesh is broadly classified into two distinctive zones.
Zone 1: The Great Himalayas (Tribal Belt)
Characteristics
- Inhabitants: Tribes or semi-nomadic, semi-agricultural, and semi-pastoral people.
- Racial Composition: An admixture of the Indo-Aryan or Mongolian races.
- Geographical Area:
- Districts of Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur.
- Upper Shimla and Upper Kullu.
- Interior of Sirmaur.
- Pangi division of Chamba.
- Remote parts of Kangra district.
- Major Tribes:
- Kinnauras, Lahulas, Gaddis.
- Jads (Lambas, Khampas, and Bhots or Bhods).
- Pangwalas and Swanglas.
Zone 2: Outer & Mid-Himalayas (Shivaliks)
- Similarity to Plains: The people of this zone have much in common with those in the plains of Punjab.
- Distinction: The primary difference is that hill-dwellers are generally fairer in complexion.
- Reason for Similarity: The common habits and moorings are attributed to the continuous inter-migration of people during medieval and later periods.
Historical Waves of Migration
Why people moved to the Hills?
The text highlights three specific historical waves that shaped the Outer Himalayan culture:
- Reign of Aurangzeb: A great number of Hindus (Brahmins and Rajputs) migrated from the plains to these easily accessible lower parts of HP when they were persecuted.
- Mughal Harassment: Sikhs came and settled in Himachal Pradesh when they were harassed and driven by the Mughals (noting that relations between Sikhs and Mughals were historically never cordial).
- Partition (1947): When India was partitioned, Himachal Pradesh received its share of 4,660 displaced persons.
Summary: The Societal Blend
The resulting society in Himachal Pradesh is described as a unique blend:
- Tribal and Non-tribal.
- Semi-civilized and Civilized.
- Pastoral and Semi-industrial.
- Backward and Modernized.
- Identity: A mix of hills and plains culture.
HPAS Notes: The Dasas (Pre-Vedic Inhabitants)
1. Origins and Identity
- Region: The Shivalik hills are believed to have been inhabited during the pre-Vedic period by the ‘Dasas’.
- Associated Tribes: They are grouped along with ‘Panies’, ‘Asuras’, and ‘Vratyas’.
Connection to Indus Valley Civilization
The text notes a significant historical theory:
- The Dasas, along with the associated groups mentioned above, are supposed to be the authors of the Indus Valley Civilisation.
2. Conflict with Aryans
The Dasas did not submit easily to the incoming Aryans. They put up strong resistance to Aryan advancement.
Powerful Dasa Chiefs (Exam Key Fact)
The text lists four specific powerful chiefs who led this resistance:
- Chamuri
- Dhuni
- Pipru
- Sushna
3. Integration (Aryanization)
Eventually, the conflict gave way to assimilation. The Dasas were later accepted into the Aryan fold due to the constant efforts of two great Rishis:
- Rishi Vishwamitra
- Rishi Vashishta
HPAS Notes: The Kinners (Ancient Tribes)
1. Etymology and Appearance
- Origin of Word: The word ‘Kinner’ originated from two Sanskrit words: ‘Kim + Nara’.
- Meaning: It translates to “What kind of strange persons are they?”.
- Reason for Name: This question was raised because Kinner males do not have beards and moustaches as abundantly grown in males of other races.
- Mythological Look: They are described as ‘Ashwamukha’ (Half man and half horse).
2. Literary References
Ancient Texts (Yes/No Checklist)
- Rig Veda: Has NO reference to Kinners. (Important for elimination questions).
- Mahabharata: Contains references about them.
- Kalidas: Mentioned in his immortal epics, specifically in the book ‘Kumarasambhava’.
3. Geography and Habitat
- Ancient Habitat: They are believed to have inhabited the inner Himalayan terrain stretching right from the Ganges upto the Chandrabhaga (Chenab) river till the Gupta period.
- Present Status: The Kinner population is now confined to the Kinnaur district only.
4. Lineage and Legends
The Royal Connection
- Earliest King: According to legend, Pradumna (the son of Lord Krishna) was the earliest king of the Kinners.
- Modern Claim: It is believed that Raja Vir Bhadra Singh (six-time CM of HP) is the 131st descendant of this dynasty.
5. Anthropological & Linguistic Roots
The Munda Connection
Historical evidence points to a specific origin:
- Origin: They are of Munda origin.
- Evidence: This is based on the similarity of their grammar with that of ‘Mandari’, spoken by the aborigines of the ‘Chhota Nagpur’ area.
- Conclusion: This linguistic link speaks of the amalgamation of the Munda aboriginals with the Tibetans in very early times.
HPAS Notes: The Kiratas (Ancient Tribes)
1. Identity and Nomenclature
- Status: In the history of Kashmir, they have been mentioned as low-caste people along with ‘Kaivartas’ and ‘Chandalas’.
- Civilization: They were a well-organized society with a law and order system. They lived in towns and built forts.
- Literary Reference: The Bhairvi classic ‘Kiratarjuniya’ is woven around the historical battle that took place between the Kirata King and Arjuna.
Alternate Names (Mavana)
Later in history, the Kiratas came to be known as ‘Mavanas’ or ‘Mavies’ in the region across the Jamuna and the Satluj.
2. The Great Aryan-Kirata War
Shambar vs. Divodas (The 40-Year War)
The Aryans arrived in Himachal around 3000-2500 B.C., crossing the Ravi to reach the Beas valley. This led to a massive conflict:
- The Rivals:
- Kirata King: Shambar (Ruled Lower Shivaliks from a stronghold near Baijnath).
- Aryan King: Divodas.
- The Advisors:
- Rishi Bharadwaj: Advisor to King Divodas.
- Rig Veda Sources: The war is discussed by Rishi Vashishta and Vamdeva.
- Key Events:
- Duration: The war lasted for forty years.
- Destruction: It resulted in the destruction of Shambar’s ninety-nine forts.
- The End: Shambar and his ally Verchi were killed at a place named ‘Udubraj’.
3. Aftermath of the War
- Other Defeats: The Aryans also defeated minor kings named Kirang, Parnya, and Chumri.
- Succession:
- King Divodas was succeeded by his son ‘Sudas’.
- Rishi Bharadwaj was succeeded by the illustrious leader Vashisht.
HPAS Notes: The Nagas (Ancient Tribes & Cult)
1. Identity and Origins
- Habitation: They inhabited the Himalayan region at one time in history.
- Belief System: They were worshippers of Nagas (Serpents).
- Cult Origin: The Naga cult is considered an offspring of the Shiva-Shakti cult and is still in vogue today.
- Literary Evidence: In the Puranas, there are elaborate references to the Nagas and Naga deities inhabiting the hills and water springs.
2. Mythology and Kings
The Eight Mythological Nagas
Hindu mythology lists eight prominent Nagas:
- Shesh (Most significant; believed to support the earth on his head).
- Takshaka.
- Vasuki.
- Vajara.
- Danshan.
- Kar Kotik.
- Kemmali.
- Sankhu and Kali.
Famous Kings: The text specifically names Vasuki, Kali, and Takshaka as famous kings of this tribe.
3. Festivals and Deities
- Major Festival: ‘Naga Panchami’, which falls in the month of July.
- Goddess of Snakes: ‘Mansa Devi’ is worshipped as the goddess of snakes.
4. Geographical Distribution of Shrines
Important Naga Shrines (District-wise)
Mandi District:
- ‘Nagchala’ near Mandi town.
- ‘Rewalsar lake’.
- ‘Kamru Naga’.
Kangra District (Known for Snake Bite Cures):
- ‘Shibu-Ka-Than’ (Nurpur).
- ‘Saloh’ (Palampur).
- ‘Tripal’ (Kangra).
Chamba District:
- ‘Kelang Naga’ temple near the village Kugti (Bharmaur).
Kashmir (Historical Link):
- ‘Aba van’: A ruined historical temple in Kashmir visited by snake-worshippers in the past.
HPAS Notes: The Khasas (Ancient Tribes)
1. Identity and Origins
- Linguistic Theory: Famous philologist Grierson suggests that the earlier known Indo-Aryans of the Himalayan tract were Khasas.
- Current Representation: At present, they represent both the Brahmin and Kshatriya parts of the population.
- Self-Identification: In Kinnaur, they call themselves ‘Khashiya’ and associate themselves with the Rajputs.
- Manu’s View: Manu also recognized Khasas with Kshatriyas.
The “Shudra” Classification Controversy
Despite being linked to Aryans, their social status fluctuates in ancient texts:
- Aryan Fold: It is believed they were taken into the Aryan fold completely in the past.
- Denigration: However, Indo-Aryan literature denigrated them to the position of ‘Shudras’.
- Reason: This was because they did not observe the Aryan rites.
2. Geographical Distribution & History
- Ancient Homeland: Their homeland was ‘Khasdesh’, situated between the North Western provinces and Nepal.
- Settlement Range: Their settlement extended from Eastern Turkistan over Kashmir to Nepal and Assam.
- Naming Influence: They gave the name to Khagsar and Kashmir.
- Current Location: Distributed in Shimla, Sirmaur, parts of Kullu and Kinnaur (HP), and Tehri, Kumaon, Garhwal (Uttarakhand).
3. Literary Evidence
References in Texts
- Sources: Found in Puranic and epic literature (Bhagvata Purana, Vayu Purana).
- Brihat Samhita: In this text by Varahmihira, Khasas were mentioned alongside Kulutas (inhabitants of Kullu), Tanganas, and Kashniras.
- Ethnic Stock: Khasira of Nepal, Kasya of Kumaon/Garhwal are people of the same ethnic stock.
4. The Struggle for Supremacy
Khasas vs. Aborigines (Outcome)
The arrival of the Khasas reshaped the Himalayan demographic map:
- The Contenders: After the Aryans took to the plains, the remnants of Kiratas, Kinners, Nagas, Yakshas, and the newly arrived Khasas contended for power in the hills.
- The Victor: Ultimately, the Khasas emerged victorious.
- The Losers:
- Kiratas and Kinners: Were pushed to the inaccessible areas (explaining their current tribal status).
- Nagas and Yakshas: Were lost to history.
5. Key Term: “Khas Brahmin”
- Definition: In the Jaunsar Bawar area of Uttarakhand and Chopal/Shillai areas of Himachal Pradesh, ‘Khas Brahmins’ are those Brahmins who entered matrimonial alliances with the Khasas.
HPAS Notes: Social Life of the Khasas
1. Traditional Dress
The Khasa community does not have a single uniform dress; it varies according to local conditions.
Regional Variations (Kinnaur vs. Others)
- In Kinnaur:
- Men & Women: Both use ‘gachi’ (waist string) and ‘chhuba’ (long coat).
- Women: Specifically wear ‘dohru’ (a warm sari).
- In Other Areas:
- Women: Use ‘thipuh’ (head scarf).
- Men: Wear ‘achkan’ with folds inside.
2. Food and Dietary Habits
Staple Diet & Dishes
- Staple Grains: Wheat, rice, maize, and barley.
- Pulses: Rajmah, mah, moong, arhar, and channa.
- Non-Vegetarian: They are non-vegetarian, consuming meat (goat, sheep, wild birds/animals), fish, pork, and eggs.
- Special Dishes: ‘Poltu’ and ‘Siddu’ are quite popular.
3. Unique Dietary Features
- Alcohol: They have a tendency towards both local and non-local alcoholic drinks.
- Milk Scarcity: Milk is not much in use. This is because of the difficult terrain, leading to a scarcity of buffaloes and other milching animals.
HPAS Notes: Social Life of Khasas (Marriage Systems)
1. Classification of Marriage Types
The Khasas practice three distinct types of marriage systems. This divergence is based on the method of arrangement and the location of the ceremony:
The Three Forms
- 1. Biyah System:
- This is the standard arranged marriage.
- Definition: Marital relations are settled by the parents.
- 2. Praino System:
- This is a form of love marriage.
- Etymology: The term originated from the ancient word ‘pranay’, meaning love.
- 3. Gadar System:
- This is unique due to the venue of the ceremony.
- Process: The bride goes to the house of the bridegroom, and the wedding ceremony is observed there (contrary to the standard Hindu custom where the groom goes to the bride).
2. Rules of Union and Separation
Flexibility and Force
- Divorce: The marriage is dissolvable by mutual consent at any time.
- Forced Marriage: In some cases, the practice of marriage by force is also found among them.
3. Regional Divergence (Himachal vs. Uttarakhand)
The ‘Tekwa’ or ‘Viyag’ System
A crucial distinction exists between the Khasas of Himachal Pradesh and those of the neighboring Jaunsar Bawar region regarding the ‘Tekwa’ system.
- The System: ‘Tekwa’ or ‘Viyag’ allows a dead or incapacitated husband to be replaced by another man (a hired husband) to procreate a male child for the family.
- In Himachal Pradesh: There is NO Tekwa or Viyag system among the Khasas of HP.
- In Uttarakhand: This system was found among the Khasas of Jaunsar Bawar, Tehri, and Garhwal.
HPAS Notes: Religion of the Khasas
1. The Village God System
- Core Belief: Almost every remarkable hill is considered the abode of some spirits.
- Role of Gods: The village gods are viewed as the heads and protectors of the habitat.
- The Intermediary (‘Gur’): The ‘Gur’ (Oracles) represent the spirits and communicate on their behalf.
- Rituals:
- Village gods are made to dance in palanquins made of wood.
- Sacrifices of goats and rams are made to village gods and spirits.
2. Prominent Deities
The Mahasu Cult
- Status: The Mahasu cult is very prominent among the people of this community.
- The Milk Taboo (Historical): In earlier days, the worshippers of ‘Pawasi Mahasu’ did not use milk. However, there are no such restrictions now.
Other Deities Worshipped:
- Hatkoti Devi.
- Nag Deities.
- Chureshwar, Dom, Chikhreshwar, and Koteshwar.
3. The Three-Fold Worship System
Hierarchy of Worship
The Khasas established a specific system of worship that is still prevalent in Himachal today:
- 1. Ishta Devta: The deity of the individual.
- 2. Griha Devta: The deity of the household.
- 3. Gram Devta: The deity of the village.
4. Script and Language
- Past Script: The script of the community in the past was ‘Tankri’.
- Present Script: They use the Devnagari script now.
HPAS Notes: Community System of the Khasas
1. The ‘Khoond’ Warrior System
The Khasas have distinct warrior groups known as ‘Khoond’. These groups form the basis of their social organization.
Classification of Warrior Groups
- Shatha: Represents the ‘Sixty’ (i.e., the Kaurva group).
- Pasha: Represents the ‘Five’ (i.e., the Pandava group).
- Logic of Subgroups: These are further divided into groups like Chhabishi (6×20), Charbishi (4×20), Barabishi (12×20), etc..
- Purpose: The availability of warrior young men for battle was the main criterion for these subgroups. They used to supply warriors to the ‘Ranas’ on demand.
- Head Hunting: Among the ‘Khoonds’, head hunting was practiced in cases of mutual animosity.
2. Traditional Sport: ‘Thodo’
Martial Archery
- Definition: ‘Thodo’ is a martial bow and arrow game arranged in open courtyards.
- Attire: Participants wear a typical dress with high-heeled shoes and ‘suthan’ made of very coarse and rough cloth.
3. Laws of Inheritance
Jethong and Kanishong
The Khasa community follows specific customary laws for dividing ancestral property:
- General Rule: Ancestral property is divided among all sons.
- The Exception (Extra Share):
- Jethong: The eldest brother gets an additional share of a field and the ancestral house.
- Kanishong: In some cases, the youngest brother also gets an additional share.
4. Social Identity
- Occupation: They are by and large a pastoral and peasant community.
- Gotra: Various gotras exist, but the most common is the Kashyap gotra.
HPAS Notes: Political Structure of the Khasas
1. The ‘Mavana’ System (Rise of Strongmen)
From Strongman to Republic (Janapada)
The Khasas were democratic in nature, but their political organization evolved through a specific process of “survival of the fittest”:
- The Election: They organized themselves into families and villages and elected a ‘Mavi’ or ‘Mavana’, meaning a strong person among themselves.
- The Conflict: The stronger ‘Mavana’ would subdue the weaker one and annex his territory.
- The Result: In this process, the whole region was split into small units called Mavanas.
- Final Evolution: Later, these areas developed into tribal republics known as ‘JANAPADA’ in Sanskrit literature.
2. Social & Political Institutions
The Khasa society was structured around three key leadership roles:
- Head of the Family.
- Head of the Clan.
- Head of the Panchayat.
3. The Aryan Influence & Regional Divide
Lower Hills vs. Upper Hills
A distinct political-religious divide existed based on proximity to the Aryans:
- Lower Hills: Khasas here were closer to the Aryans. Thus, they adopted the institution of ‘Purohit’.
- Upper Regions: In these areas, the non-Brahmanical order remained much in vogue.
4. The Role of Rishis (Sages)
The Aryan conquerors who left for the plains maintained contact with the Khasas through Rishis who visited the Himalayas for peace and meditation:
- Political Influence: Being influential gurus of powerful Aryan kings, their word was respected.
- Deification: Famous Aryan Rishis were accorded the status of local gods. Examples include Vashishta, Vyasa, Jamdagni, and Parshuram.
- Modern Parallel: The text notes this is similar to the respect given to Pujaris and Sadhus today.
HPAS Notes: Culture & Economy of the Khasas
1. Cultural Influences and Distinctiveness
- The ‘Dum’ Influence: The culture of the Khasas has been deeply influenced by their contacts with the ‘Dums’.
- Origin of Dums: The cultural life of Dums resembles that of the many tribes of pre-Dravidian origin.
- Aboriginal Proximity: Their unique culture is attributed to their close proximity with the aboriginal life of the hills.
Khasas vs. Plains Hindus (Key Differences)
Although they claim themselves to be Hindus, their cultural life does not resemble the Hindus of the plains:
- Widow Remarriage: Unlike traditional plains Hindus, the Khasas remarry widows.
- Divorce: They have made divorce legal.
2. Religious Syncretism
A Mixture of Beliefs
The religion of Khasas is described as a mixture of Hindu and tribal beliefs:
- Hindu Gods: They worship standard gods like Vishnu and Shiva.
- Animistic/Tribal Worship: Besides Hindu gods, they also worship:
- Their own deities.
- Demons and spirits.
- Stones and weapons.
3. Economy and Occupation
- Chief Occupation: Agriculture and Horticulture.
- Modern Change: They are now coming under the influence of modern systems and exposure, which has provided a new thrust to their outlook and lifestyle.
4. Physical Anthropology
Physical Features
The text provides a specific physical description of the Khasa people:
- Stature: Generally tall.
- Appearance: Handsome with fair complexion.
- Facial Features: Misty eyes, curly hairs, and regular well-cut features.
HPAS Notes: Minor Ancient Tribes & Modern Demographics
1. The Pishachas
- Identity: Known as consumers of raw flesh.
- Habitat: They inhabited the North frontier and the adjoining Himalayan tract.
- Vedic Connection: The tribe known as ‘Rakshas’ in Vedic times were akin to the Pishachas.
2. The Yakshas
Mythological Identity
- Tree Gods: They were known as the tree gods, endowed with mysterious super-human powers.
- Mahabharata Reference: There is a famous reference to the encounter between Yudhishthira (and his brothers) with a Yaksha.
- Geography: It is difficult to ascribe a particular region to such a type of tribe.
3. Summary of Ancient Tribal Struggle
The text provides a concluding note on the ancient struggle for power in the Himalayas:
- Shelter for All: Every part of the Himalayan tract has provided shelter to almost every kind of tribe.
- The Victor: Khasas were the only tribe to gain supremacy over the region extending from Kashmir up to Kumaon hills.
4. Modern Tribal Demographics
In modern Himachal Pradesh, the following are listed as the famous tribes:
- Gujjars, Gaddis, Kinnaurs (Kinners), Lambas, Khampas, Bhots, Jads, Lahaulas, Pangwalas, and Swanglas.
High Yield Fact: Area vs. Population
The distribution of tribes in modern Himachal shows a stark contrast between land area and population density:
- Geographical Area: Tribes occupy 40 percent of the total geographical area of the state.
- Population Share: However, they constitute only 4.6 percent of the total population of the state.