Lambada Tribe

Why in News?

The long-standing controversy over whether the Lambada community should be treated as a Scheduled Tribe (ST) in Telangana has once again reached the Supreme Court.

• The Lambadas, also known as Banjaras, are a Scheduled Tribe community mainly found in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
• They are one of India’s largest tribal groups.
• Origin and Identity - Traditionally nomadic traders and transporters of goods
• Played a major role in moving grain, salt, and commodities during medieval times
• Known for their distinctive dress, jewellery, and folk culture.
• Language - Speak Gor Boli (Lambadi), an Indo-Aryan language, written in Devanagari or Telugu script.
• Settlement - Live in exclusive hamlets called “Tandas”
• Tandas are socially and administratively distinct from nearby villages.
• Social Structure - Headed by a Naik (village chief).
• Assisted by Karbhari (administrative officer) and Bhagat (religious head).
• Livelihood - Traditionally traders and carriers.
• Now engaged in agriculture, animal husbandry, wage labour and crafts.
• Famous dances - Lambadi Dance, Fire dance.
• Festivals - Teej, Diwali, Holi.
• Constitutional Status - Recognised as a Scheduled Tribe in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and several other states.
• In some states, they are classified as Other Backward Classes (OBCs).

Reference

Down To Earth | Lambada Tribe