Dhangar Community

About Dhangar Community:

• The Dhangars are a community of shepherds with populations in several states. They live in Gujrat, karnataka and Andhra Pradesh besides Maharashtra.
• The Dhangar community is on the Vimukta Jati and Nomadic Tribes (VJNT) list in Maharashtra.
• They live a largely isolated life and wander mainly in forests, hills and mountains.
• Households and Population:
• Dhangar households are typically small, close-knit units, where family plays a central role.
• The community is estimated to have a population of around 1 crore, which is about 9% of Maharashtra’s total population.
• Clusters and Sub-Castes:
  • Within the Dhangar tribe, there are around 20 sub-castes and clusters, each with its own distinct customs and traditions.
• Occupation:
  • They are relying on their sheep and goat herding practices as a primary means of livelihood.
  • They practice both nomadic pastoral and semi-nomadic and agrarian lifestyles in rural areas.
  • Seasonal Migration: With the end of the bajra harvesting season in October, the Dhangar tribe starts their annual migration in search of greener pastures for their cattle.
• Culture:
  • They practice a variety of customs and rituals in this journey, like-the Worship of their ancestors.
  • The tradition of singing songs, especially during the night, is a significant aspect of Dhangar culture and serves multiple purposes.
  • They use these songs called sumbaran- an oral tradition of Dhangars.

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