People of the Jamba Village

The Dune retreat is located in the land of a medley of tribes, and castes. They  mingle together to form a fascinating tapestry that flutters with their colourful clothing, their sloping thatched roof houses called Dhanis, their vibrant festivals, their temples, and their arts and crafts…

The Bishnois, a sect of people formed about 500 years ago are considered the oldest environmentalists of the planet. They still observe the rules established in 1485 by their founder Jambhoji , which include the protection of trees and wild animals.

Other inhabitants of the area include the herders, or Raikas, who take pride in their heritage as caretakers and breeders of ‘ships of the desert’, camels.  The Rajputs belong to the traditional ruling elite. There are also castes that specialise in weaving camel wool and cloth and adorning them with fascinating patterns.

Langas and Manganiyar are hereditary Muslim classical folk singers.  Through generations, their music has been supported by wealthy patrons (jajmans). Traditionally, they sing at festivals like Holi, Diwali and Id, as well as at the time of birth or death in the families of their patrons. Raos and Bhats maintain and vet the geneology of different families as a social practice.

The destination presents an opportunity to see the collage of various castes and tribes living together in the syncretic tradition of India.

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