The Gorait Tribes: Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Culture, Tradition, and Society

Introduction

The Gorait tribes, an integral part of the proto-Australoid group and belonging to the Austric racial group, have carved their unique identity in the hilly regions of Bihar. Known for their preference for settling in densely forested areas, the Gorait tribes have fostered amicable relationships with neighboring tribal communities, fostering a cultural exchange that enriches their heritage.

Read more- Scheduled Tribes in West Bengal: Diverse Tapestry

Geographical Presence

Spread across regions such as Palamu, Sathal Pargana, Singhbhum, Dhanbad, Ranchi, and Hazaribagh, the Gorait tribes boast a heritage steeped in rich culture and traditions. Their cohabitation with other tribes has led to a cultural fusion that reflects in various aspects of their lives, including marriage rituals, traditional attire, and housing styles.

Diverse Housing Styles

The construction of houses among the Gorait tribes varies from district to district, but a common pattern prevails. Typically, the tribes build one-roomed houses with a kitchen, bed, and storage area. Adjacent to the house, a verandah serves as a cattle shed, constructed with wooden and bamboo pillars.

Occupations and Economic Life

Anthropological evidence suggests that a significant portion of the Gorait tribes engages in farming and irrigation, employing tools such as Khamti, khurapi, axes, and sickles. Some also take on roles as drum players, village messengers, and watchmen. In addition to agriculture, weaving is a prevalent occupation, with the tribes crafting baskets, mats, brooms, and winnow trays.The economy of the Gorait society revolves around agrarian practices, reflecting their close connection to the land.

Artisans and Craftsmanship

Apart from their agricultural pursuits, the Gorait tribes are skilled hunters and craftsmen. They create various weapons, including bow-arrow, Lathi, Ber, and Barchha. The tribes are also known for crafting musical instruments like Dhol, Manar, nagara, and flutes. Traditional attire distinguishes the Gorait males and females, with men wearing shirts and dhotis while women don sarees and blouses, adorned with steel, thread, glass, and silver ornaments.

Societal Structure and Governance

The Gorait tribal society follows a patriarchal system, with the family unit being the smallest segment. Despite the authoritative power resting with the male head of the family, decisions involving commodities, marriage, worship, and social relations consider the opinions of both wives and children.

The Panchayat, led by the Panchayat Pradhan, governs the society, establishing and enforcing laws. Lineage and succession are patrilineal, with families within the same lineage providing support during times of trouble and ceremonies. Inheritance is equal among sons, while daughters receive maintenance and bride price.

Clans and Marriage Customs

The Gorait tribes follow the rules of tribal endogamy and clan exogamy, prohibiting marriage within the same clan. Totemism plays a significant role, with clans such as Indnar, Tudu, Khalkho, and Toppo based on totemic beliefs. Widow remarriage is common, and divorce is permissible, reflecting the flexibility within their societal norms.

Religious Practices and Festivals

The religious practices of the Gorait tribes encompass manaism, animism, animalism, naturalism, Bongaism, witchcraft, and Sharananism. Their belief in the rebirth of man is accompanied by a devotion to various Gods, Goddesses, and spirits, including Vana Deo, Burha Deo, Nag Deo, and Goddess Kali.

Festivals like Karma, Sarhul, Jitia, Sohrai, Nawakhani, Maghi, and Phagu mark their calendar, celebrating the diverse facets of their spiritual beliefs.

Conclusion

The Gorait tribes stand as a testament to the richness and diversity of India's tribal heritage. From their distinctive housing styles to their vibrant cultural practices and spiritual beliefs, the Gorait tribes have woven a tapestry that reflects their harmonious coexistence with nature and neighboring communities. As we delve into their world, we discover a captivating mosaic of tradition, societal structures, and a resilient way of life.

FAQ

Q. Where do the Gorait tribes prefer to settle, and what is their relationship with neighboring tribal communities?

A. The Gorait tribes prefer settling in hilly areas densely covered with forests and greenery. They share friendly and amicable relations with neighboring tribal communities living in close proximity.

Q. Which regions in Bihar are inhabited by the Gorait tribes, and what aspects of their culture reflect their rich heritage?

A. The Gorait tribes reside in hilly areas of the Bihar region, specifically in parts of Palamu, Sathal Pargana, Singhbhum, Dhanbad, Ranchi, and Hazaribagh. Their rich culture is reflected in various aspects like marriages, traditional attire, and other cultural practices.

Q. What is the common pattern in the construction of houses among the Gorait tribes, and how do they utilize the adjacent verandah?

A. The Gorait tribes typically raise one-roomed houses with a kitchen, bed, and storage. Adjacent to the house is a verandah, which they use mainly as a cattle shed, sheltered by wooden and bamboo pillars.

Q. What are the primary occupations of the Gorait tribes, and what tools do they use for farming and irrigation?

A: Most Gorait tribes engage in farming and irrigation, using tools such as Khamti, khurapi, axes, and sickles. Some also work as drum players, village messengers, watchmen, and weavers, crafting items like baskets, mats, brooms, and winnow trays.

Q. Describe the societal structure of the Gorait tribes and how the Panchayat governs their community.

A. The Gorait tribal society follows a patriarchal system, with the family being the smallest segment. The Panchayat, led by the Panchayat Pradhan, governs the society, creating and implementing laws. The Panchayat members work closely to maintain proper administration.

Q. What is the role of lineage and succession among the Gorait tribes, and how is inheritance handled within the family?

A. Lineage and succession among the Gorait tribes are patrilineal. Families belonging to one lineage stay together and assist each other. The property of the father is inherited equally by all sons, while daughters receive maintenance and bride price.