Nomadic Echoes: The Dhangar Tribe’s Transhumance Mobility in Maharashtra

1. Introduction

Who are Dhangars?

The Dhangar tribe, a pastoral nomadic community of Maharashtra, India, is a fascinating and vibrant group known for their rich cultural heritage and unique way of life. This tribe has a distinct presence in the eastern regions of Western Ghats of Maharashtra, and their customs and traditions have been an integral part of the state’s social fabric for generations. The Dhangar tribe predominantly resides in the western regions of Maharashtra, encompassing major areas such as Ahmednagar, Pune, Satara, Sangli and Kolhapur. These areas are characterised by a diverse landscape, which includes plateaus, hills and grasslands, providing an ideal setting for the tribe’s semi-nomadic pastoral lifestyle.

Households and Population

Dhangar households are typically small, close-knit units, where family plays a central role. Enthoven in 1920 meticulously documented 22 endogamous and 108 exogamous groups within the Dhangar community. Enthoven’s records revealed a total Dhangar population of 467,622 individuals, distributed across the Deccan, Konkan and the Southern Maratha regions (Enthoven, 1920, p. 311). The population of the community is estimated to be around 1 crore – or about 9% of Maharashtra’s roughly 11.25 crore population. (Express, 2019)

Clusters and Sub-Castes

Within the Dhangar tribe, there are around 20 sub-castes and clusters that can be identified (B.M.Reddy, 2001), each with its own distinct customs and traditions. Some of the prominent sub-castes include the Hatkar, Khutekar, Shegar, Sangar, Zende, Mhaske, Ahir, Dongri, Gavli and Khatik Dhangars, among others. These sub-castes often have unique professions and practices that set them apart. For example Hatkar Dhangars are known for taking care of sheep. Sangar Dhangars are skilled at making beautiful woolen blankets that are called ghongadi. Khatik Dhangars specialise in cutting and selling meat. Gavli Dhangars play a crucial role in selling milk and dairy products. They share a common and dissimilar origin and occupy mutually exclusive spaces across Maharashtra. Hatkar Dhangar is the largest sub caste from the Dhangar community which exclusively rears sheeps, and has played crucial role in the Maratha army as well.

Occupations

The Dhangar shepherds are known to stay in the central plateau called the desh region of Maharashtra during the monsoon season. This region, characterised by semi-arid conditions, has low rainfall average of 20 to 50 inches per year and poor soil quality. Thorny scrublands and acasia arabica (babool) trees dominate the landscape, limiting agricultural activities to the cultivation of crops like bajra. The Dhangars were resourceful and adapted to these challenging conditions, relying on their sheep and goat herding practices as a primary means of livelihood. Dhangars are known for their historical occupation as shepherds and cattle herders. While their traditional nomadic lifestyle has diminished due to settlement in one place, urbanisation and government policies, some Dhangars still practise traditional animal husbandry.

2. Seasonal Transhumance of the Dhangar Tribe

By October, as the bajra harvest season ends, the Dhangar tribe starts its annual migration westward as well as eastward, a practice that would take them to the Konkan, or grassland-abundant regions such as the western regions of Satara District. This includes Mahabaleshwar, Wai and Koregaon Talukas which Dhangars famously called the Wai desh (Region around Wai, Satara). They also migrate to the Marathwada region of Maharashtra in search of greener pastures for their livestock. This transhumance journey serves as a crucial aspect of their nomadic identity and is deeply ingrained in their ways of life.

The seasonal transhumance of the Dhangar tribe is a unique phenomenon that reflects their resilience, adaptability and their profound connection with the natural environment. This article explores the various facets of this migration, its significance and the challenges and changes faced by the Dhangar tribe in modern times.

Family and Livestock

The seasonal migration of the Dhangar tribe is a journey that involves entire families, including men, women, children and the elderly. In recent times, the children and elderly people have been staying at home for their children’s education. The core of their migration consists of their beloved livestock, which includes flocks of their indigenous dakhni sheep (the Deccani sheep breed has earned its reputation as a hardy and versatile breed), goats, hens, dogs and horses. These animals are not only essential for their livelihood but are also regarded as the family members of the Dhangars.

Migration Routes

The migration route of the Dhangar tribe is a well-trodden path that leads them from their ancestral villages in western Maharashtra to the lush and fertile lands of the Konkan region, Wai desh, Mawal region (region in Pune District) and the Marathwada region. While specific routes may vary, the migration often includes passing through hilly terrains, plateaus and grasslands, following seasonal patterns of grass growth to ensure ample grazing for their livestock. (Palande-Datar, 2021)

After the discussions with the nomadic Dhangars, we have come to know their various routes. The Dhangars have various migration routes leading to the Konkan region, each with its distinctive path and destinations:

1. Dhangars living near Jejuri and Phaltan in the Upper Karha Valley begin their journey by moving through Jejuri, Saswad, Hadapsar, Chinchwad, Dehuraod, Talegaon, Kamshet, Lonavala, and then onwards to Roha Taluka in Raigad District.
2. Another route frequently taken by the Dhangars connects Phaltan to Mahad, spanning Vadale, Kalaj, Lonand, Bhade, Rajwadi, Bhor and Manjari, eventually leading to Varandha pass.
3. Settlements near Baramati choose the Bhade-Jejuri-Hadapsar-Kothrud route, ultimately reaching Pavna valley, where they stop and disperse, often around Paud village.
4. Communities from Mandesh (region around Man river valley) around the Dahiwadi, Mhasawad, Aatpadi and Pandharpur follow the Diwad-Khatav-Khamgaon-Kuroli route, head towards Satara, and then through the Bamnoli pass to the west coast.
5. Some Dhangar settlements do not cross into the Konkan region and instead settle within the Junnar-Pune-Satara-Karad-Kolhapur axis, which is considered the heartland of Maval. This is often due to opposition from sedentary populations. Notably, there are cases where Dhangar groups have begun moving towards Marathwada, driven by similar reasons. (Dandekar, 1998)

Their migration patterns involve covering distances of about 10 to 15 kilometres per day, but these numbers can vary depending on various factors like the availability of pastures and water, terrain and the specific purpose of their migration.

During these migrations, the Dhangar community typically stays in temporary settlements or camps that they call wada (camp). They construct makeshift shelters using locally available materials such as bamboo, wood and tarpaulin, to protect themselves and their livestock from the elements. These temporary camps are often mobile and can be set up and dismantled quickly as they move along their migration routes. Dhangar community often uses horses to carry their belongings and dismantled materials during their migrations. Horses are strong and reliable pack animals that can transport a significant amount of load, making them well-suited for the community’s nomadic lifestyle. They use horses to carry birhad (the Dhangars’ household belongings) essential supplies, tents and other items as they move from one location to another in search of suitable grazing lands for their livestock.

During their journey, the Dhangar tribe not only carries their flocks of sheeps but also their culture with them. They practise a variety of customs and rituals in this journey. One such practice is the worship of their ancestors (significantly nomadic Dhangars do not follow the Vedic religion as Dhangars are nature and ancestral worshippers) who have passed away along this very migration route. Memory stones raised in memory of these ancestors dot their path, and the Dhangars offer milk directly from their sheep to these stones as a mark of respect. (Henning Stegmuller, 1986) During this period Dhangars also pay their respects and organise jatras (annual festivals) to the shrines on their migration routes.

Sheep Farming and Agriculture

Dhangars often travel with groups of 100 to 150 sheep, known as a ‘khandwa’ (flock of sheep). These animals provide them with a source of livelihood through the production of wool, milk and sometimes meat. The Dhangar people’s traditional way of life is closely intertwined with the care and management of their livestock, which are essential for their sustenance and economic well being.

The Dhangars have a deep understanding of the multi-faceted importance of their sheep beyond just milk production. Dhangars often affectionately refer to their sheep as ‘Mendhi Mauli’, which means ‘Mother Sheep’. (Rupanvar, 2022) Their practice of keeping the flock in farms during their migrations and allowing the sheep’s dung to serve as fertilizer for local fields is a vital aspect of their traditional agricultural cycle.

This symbiotic relationship between the Dhangars and local farmers is mutually beneficial. The farmers receive a natural source of fertilizer that enriches their soil, enhancing crop yields. In return, the Dhangars gain access to grazing land for their sheep during the farming off-season, ensuring the well-being of their livestock. This practice showcases the sustainable and harmonious coexistence of different livelihoods in the region and demonstrates the interconnectedness of various communities and their ways of life.

Upon reaching the Konkan region, the Wai desh region, the Mawal region or the Marathwada region, the Dhangars are invited by local villagers to graze their remaining paddy fields, tur, cotton or soya bean fields, and other remains after the end of the harvest season. This collaboration sustains the Dhangar flocks while ensuring that the fields are efficiently prepared for the upcoming agricultural season. The Dhangars actively participate in this process and contribute to the village’s agricultural efforts.

Night Practices While Staying in the Wadas

The tradition of singing songs, especially during the night, is a significant aspect of Dhangar culture and serves multiple purposes. While it does provide entertainment and a way to preserve their cultural heritage, it also serves a practical function in protecting their livestock. (Kale, 2022)

The Dhangars use these songs sumbaran—an oral tradition of Dhangars that means to memorize in the form of ovis (a type of poems)—-as a means of night patrolling and keeping potential predators away. The loud and rhythmic nature of these songs, accompanied by traditional instruments like dhols and kaital can deter animals that might pose a threat to their sheep. Additionally, they perform a dance known as ‘Gaja Nritya’ (Elephant Dance), which includes movements mimicking those of an elephant, adding to the rich cultural tapestry of their traditions. (Kale, 2022)

These practices not only help to safeguard their livestock but also reinforce their strong oral tradition, passing down their history and life events through these songs. It’s a unique and multifaceted cultural tradition that has both practical and social significance within the Dhangar community.

3. Challenges Faced by the Dhangar Tribe During Transhumance Mobility in Recent Times

The seasonal migration of the Dhangar tribe is a method that is deeply ingrained in their culture, but it also comes with a set of challenges and obstacles that impact their way of life. These challenges reflect the complexities and difficulties faced by the tribe as they continue their time-honoured practice.

Lack of Access to Education, Permanent Shelter, Poverty, Superstition and Undernourishment

The constant movement of Dhangar families makes it difficult for their children to attend formal schools regularly. This lack of access to education hinders their learning and limits their future opportunities. Without adequate education, it becomes challenging for the younger generation to break the vicious cycle of poverty. Dhangars typically live in temporary structures called pals while on the move, which leaves them vulnerable to the elements. Harsh weather conditions can impact their health and well being. Having a stable and permanent shelter is crucial for safety and comfort, especially for the elderly and children. Due to the nomadic nature of their lifestyle and the limitations it imposes on income-earning opportunities, the Dhangar community often faces economic challenges. (Rupanvar, 2022)

The lack of access to education, in particular, can break this poverty cycle, as it restricts their ability to pursue better job opportunities. Superstitions are prevalent in the Dhangar culture, and they can sometimes hinder the adoption of modern practices. Overcoming these superstitions and adopting more contemporary and effective solutions can be a challenge. This can impact their ability to adapt to changing circumstances and technologies. Limited access to proper nutrition is a concern within the Dhangar community. The scarcity of resources during their migratory journeys and the lack of diverse and nutritious food options can result in undernourishment, particularly among children. This can lead to long-term health issues and hinder their overall development.

Tussle Over Grazing Lands

The Dhangars’ traditional nomadic way of life, which relies heavily on grazing lands for their livestock, sometimes results in conflicts with agrarian communities. This tension arises from the fact that the same land is essential for both the Dhangars’ livelihood and the local farmers’ agricultural activities. This complex issue will have multiple facets:

1. Resource Competition: Grazing lands are a limited and valuable resource in many regions. The Dhangars require these lands to sustain their herds of sheep and other livestock, which are central to their way of life. Local farmers, on the other hand, depend on the same lands for crop cultivation, as these areas often provide fertile soil and adequate water sources.
2. Conflict Over Land Use: The conflict emerges when both communities use these lands. Dhangars need the land for their livestock’s grazing, particularly during seasonal migrations, while the farmers rely on it for crop production. This can lead to disputes, as each group’s use of the land is crucial for their economic well being.
3. Balancing Rights and Needs: Balancing the rights and needs of both the Dhangar community and local farmers is a complex challenge. Solutions must consider the historical and cultural significance of these practices for the Dhangars while recognising the importance of agriculture for the broader community.
4. Challenges of Modernisation: These conflicts also reflect the broader challenge of maintaining a traditional way of life in a rapidly changing world. As agriculture becomes more mechanised and urbanisation encroaches on grazing lands, the Dhangar community’s nomadic lifestyle faces increasing pressure.

Efforts to address these challenges involve mediation and negotiation to find compromises that allow both communities to coexist harmoniously. This may include setting aside specific areas for grazing, implementing rotational land use, and exploring alternative livelihoods for the Dhangar community during farming seasons. It also highlights the need for policies that protect the rights and interests of indigenous and nomadic communities while fostering cooperation with settled farming communities to ensure sustainable resource management.

Theft and Physical Altercations

One of the persistent issues the Dhangars face is theft of their sheep, often by opportunistic individuals from nearby villages. This theft not only results in economic losses but can also lead to physical altercations and tensions between the Dhangars and villagers. The clashes sometimes escalate, posing a threat to the safety and security of the tribe. (Rupanvar, 2022)

The Dhangars’ livestock is constantly exposed to the dangers of the wilderness. Predatory wild animals, such as leopards and wolves, pose a continuous threat to the flocks of sheep. The Dhangars remain vigilant to protect their livestock and livelihood from these natural predators.

The community has historically faced debates and conflicts with forest laws and officials due to their nomadic lifestyle and reliance on forest resources for grazing. Forest laws often restrict their access to these lands, leading to disputes as the Dhangars argue for their traditional rights and sustainable land use practices. Balancing conservation efforts with the preservation of indigenous practices is a continuing challenge, with the need for policies that acknowledge the Dhangars’ unique way of life while protecting forests and biodiversity. This issue underscores the broader tension between conservation and the rights of marginalised communities.

These challenges underline the precarious nature of the Dhangar tribe’s seasonal migration. While the journey holds cultural significance and economic value, it also exposes them to a range of difficulties. Addressing these issues requires a balanced approach that respects their traditions while finding solutions to improve their living conditions and protect their way of life.

4. Significance of the Dhangar Tribe’s Seasonal Migration

The annual transhumance migration of the Dhangar tribe holds significant importance not only for the tribe itself but also for the broader context of the Konkan, Marathwada and Mawal regions in Maharashtra. This tradition is rich in cultural, economic and ecological significance, impacting various aspects of the region.

Agrarian Development of Konkan, Mawal and Marathwada Regions

The symbiotic association between the Dhangar tribe and the agrarian communities in the said regions has played a crucial role in the area’s development. The Dhangars’ livestock provides a valuable source of natural fertilizer through their dung, which enriches the soil and enhances agricultural productivity. This mutually beneficial relationship fosters a sustainable agricultural ecosystem, where both communities rely on each other for their livelihoods.

Grazing Lands Replenishmen:

The Dhangar migration aids in the rejuvenation of grazing lands. By systematically moving their flocks, the Dhangars prevent overgrazing in any one area, allowing grasslands to recover and grow healthily. This helps maintain the ecological balance, ensuring the sustainability of the region’s natural resources.

Shepherd Economy and Livestock Trade

The Dhangars’ presence during the migration not only sustains their own economy but also contributes to the broader economy of the region. The sale and purchase of sheep for meat and other products create a dynamic livestock market. This trade provides income to the Dhangars and benefits local businesses, further stimulating the economy of the region.

Cultural Exchanges

The migration of the Dhangar tribe is a dynamic cultural exchange between this nomadic group and the settled communities of the Konkan region. The Dhangars bring with them their unique traditions, music and folklore. They also engage with the customs and practices of the villages they visit, fostering cultural diversity and enriching the collective heritage of the area. This cultural interchange serves as a bridge between traditional practices and modern sensibilities, preserving cultural identity while embracing change.

5. Conclusion

The transhumance migration of the Dhangar tribe is not just a journey; it is a practice that is deeply rooted in the cultural, economic and ecological spheres of the respective regions. This migration showcases the harmonious relationship between nomadic and settled communities and how mutual dependency fosters sustainable development. It underscores the resilience and cultural significance of the Dhangar tribe, reminding us that traditions, even in the face of modern challenges, continue to weave the fabric of our collective heritage.

The Dhangars’ migration is a testament to the intricate connection between humans and their environment, between past and present, and between diverse communities that come together for mutual growth and sustainability. It is a story worth preserving and studying, as it speaks to the enduring spirit of adaptation and continuity in the ever-evolving human experience.

As this transhumance migration continues year after year, the Dhangar tribe remains resilient in the face of challenges, upholding their unique cultural identity while contributing to the growth and development of the said regions. The migration isn’t just a tradition; it’s a living testament to the enduring relationship between humans, their livestock and the land they call home. In this ever-changing world, the Dhangar tribe’s mobility stands as a testament to the power of tradition, community and a deep connection to the environment.

Works Cited

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Dandekar, A. (1998). The Warlis and Dhangars: The context of the commons. In B. Saraswati, The Cultural Dimensions of Ecology (pp. 82-89).

Enthoven, R. E. (1920). The Tribes and Castes of Bombay. Bombay, Bombay, India: Government Central Press.

Express, T. I. (2019, March 3). Who are the Dhangars of Maharashtra, and why do they want ST status? The Indian Express: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-who-are-the-dhangars-of-maharashtra-and-why-do-they-want-st-status-560899. India.

Henning Stegmuller, G. D.-J. (Director). (1986). Journey of the Hatkar Dhangars [Motion Picture].

Kale, P. (2022, November 19). Bhatkya Pashupalakanche Sanskrutik Vishwa: Satoba Jatra 2022. Weekly Sadhana( Issue 14), 31-35.

Palande-Datar, S. (2021). “वासाड गावाचा धनगर राजा”: Ecological Refugees in Ancestral Grass-scape (Historical life space and changing socio-economic dynamics). Presented at the Asian Studies Centre Maharashtra Studies Conference. University of Oxford.

Rupanvar, T. (2022, September 10). Mendhpal Army:Mook Mendhpalancha Awaj. Weekly Sadhana(4), pp. 10-15.