DMPQ Premium- Classify the different sections of Bhil tribe. Also throw light on occupational structure and social customs of tribe.

There are two divisions of Bhil: the Central or “pure” Bhil, and the Eastern or part-Rajput Bhil. The Central Bhil live in the mountain regions of Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. Many years ago, Bhil rajas (kings) permitted immigrants from the plains to settle in the hill regions. To safeguard their independence and rule, the Bhil fought against the Moghals, the Maratha, and the British.

Bhil primarily work as peasant farmers, field laborers, and village watchmen. With a growth in population, most of their land holdings are small and generally non-productive. The people are experts in handling bows and arrows. In fact, the name “Bhil” was derived from the word billee, which means “bow.” For years, the bow has been a characteristic weapon of the tribe, and the men usually carry their bows and arrows with them. The women wear brightly colored clothes. The city boys are distinctive from other Hindus because they tie rags around their heads, wear earrings, and carry swords or guns.

The Bhil usually marry within their own classes. If they do marry someone of another class, the person of the lower class must convert to the higher, leaving behind all family ties. This custom is strictly enforced among the tribes.

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