Thursday, March 28, 2024
Himachal Pradesh

Himachal People


Gaddis

The Gaddis live in the Chamba-Sirmaur regions. Their settlements are known as Gadderan which means the abode of the Gaddis. Gaddis are descendants of the Khatris of Punjab who migrated to the high hill due to persecution by the Muslim rulers. This tribe has also settled in Mandi, Kangra and Bilaspur but their largest numbers live in the Kamgra district. Some of their main castes and sub-castes are Brahmins, Khatris, Rajputs, Thakurs, Rathis, Kolis, Sippys, Lohars, Bahdis and Hali.

The Khatris and Rajputs wear Chola and Dora (the sacred thread) according to the Gaddi custom. When taking decisions about marriage they consider the Gotra. The Gaddi dress is very attractive. Their black sash is very helpful in carrying weight upon the back. Their women wear colourful homespun dresses and a thick scarf over their heads which can also be used as a veil. They often carry little kids in the folds of their special sashes. The Gaddi women wear several rows of semi precious stones and display little mirrors which are studded in the necklaces. They use peacock feathers as ornaments.

The Gaddis are shepherds. Their sheep and goats are known as Dhan (property). Some of them do farming also and some families are weavers and tinkers by trade. Before the advent of the machines they also earned their living by pounding millet and carrying loads. Financially they are well off. Their traditional attire consists of a long coat (chola), dora, safa (turban), nualali tope (cap) and a draping sheet. They are fond of tobacco and in the wedding feasts wine is also served.

The Gaddis spend half of the year in their villages cultivating their fields and the remaining half migrating in search of grass and fodder for their herds. They are simple and virtuous and live in joint families and have a strict moral code. Their women are modest and chaste.