Garasias: The fallen Rajputs

The fallen Rajputs
According the legend the Garasia tribals are descendents from the Chauhan Rajputs of south-west Rajasthan. From Six centuries ago, after defeat in a battle, they fled to the hills, where they mingled with the local Bhil tribals to become a distinct group. The tribal population of Garasias is confined to regions around Mt. Abu and the Kotra region of Udaipur.

If there be some truth in the legend of the Garasia origin, it is not surprising that their culture and habits have a semblance of Bhil culture where bows and arrows feature prominently, both for hunting and personal protection. However, their beginnings as fallen Rajputs give them a higher status than the aboriginal Bhils.

Lifestyle and Social Customs
The Garasias have interesting customs of marriage through elopement which usually take place on the occasion of annual Gaur fair held during the full moon of March and April. After the elopement, which can be premeditated or spontaneous, a bride 'price' is paid to the bride's father. Should this agreement not work out the girl returns home with her father who receives some money (for the inconvenience caused).

Widows are forced to remarry since their children and not they are given a share in their husband's property.

The Garasias celebrate Nat, a feast of honor, for their dead which is performed only on Mondays, and a stone memorial called Sura is erected after the cremation. The religious practices of the Garasias are essentially Hindu and they are governed by a panchayat of five Patels(or judges) who administer justice and levy fines.

Bhils | Minas | Lohars | Garasias | Sahariyas