Khanabadoshi

A socio-economic History of Mobility in Rajasthan.

Abstract

Nomadism is as old as the history of mankind. Nomads are found in most parts of the world. Quest for various things like food and other necessities have made people to move from one place to another. Throughout India, large numbers of nomads have been moving and have played definite role in the set-ups in which they operate. India is a unique array of nomadism. The Vedic literature refers to numerous categories of nomads. Nomads have been classified on basis of their occupation and the period of movement. Some scholars classify them as true nomads and semi-sedentary nomads. Misra has made two broad divisions namely symbiotic nomads and natural nomads. All the nomadic communities can be classified under four major heads, namely; Hunter-gatherers, Goods and service nomads, Entertainers and the Religious Nomads.