People in Uttarakhand usually prefer to marry within their own culture, community, and caste. There’s nothing wrong with this because everyone has the right to choose their partner based on their preferences. Marrying someone from a different culture can be challenging, especially for a bride if she marries outside the Pahadi community.
Uttarakhand is a beautiful hill state of India known as Devbhumi (Land of the Gods) and is home to diverse communities, each with its own unique culture, traditions, and heritage. Here’s the list of the 7 Most Popular Communities and Castes in Uttarakhand belonging to the Garhwal, Kumaon, and Jaunsar regions.
1. Rajput/ Thakur
We believe that all religions and communities are equal and that the only true religion is humanity. Every community has its history, showcasing how their ancestors lived and left a mark on society.
If we talk about the Rajput community has traditionally been known as warriors and rulers. They played an important role in Uttarakhand’s history, particularly in the Garhwal and Kumaon regions.
Surnames: Rawat, Negi, Chauhan, Rathore, Parmar, Panwar, Bisht, Khanduri, etc.
2. Brahmin/ Pandit
In Uttarakhand, Brahmins have traditionally served as Pujari and scholars, playing an important role in shaping religious and cultural practices in India and overseas. Their influence extends deeply into the region’s spiritual traditions and societal customs.
Surnames: Joshi, Pant, Nautiyal, Upadhyay, Lakhchaura, Uniyal, Dimri, Bhatt, etc.
3. Scheduled Castes
Uttarakhand’s Shilpkar communities are known for their craftsmanship or Shilp Kala. They specialize in creating a wide range of handcrafted items, including musical instruments, traditional utensils, and essential farming equipment. These communities have historically been associated with various skilled professions like tailoring, blacksmithing, carpentry, jewelry, etc.
Surnames: Arya, Tamta, Ram, Koli, Lohar, Khairya, Das etc.
4. Bhotia
The Bhotias are a tribal community found in high-altitude regions like the Munsiyari, Johar Valley, and Niti-Mana valleys. They were traditionally traders with Tibet and have a rich cultural heritage.
5. Tharu
The Tharu people primarily inhabit the Terai region of Uttarakhand, near the Indo-Nepal border. They have a unique folk tradition, including vibrant music and dance.
6. Jaunsari
The Jaunsari people live in the Jaunsar-Bawar region (Dehradun and Uttarkashi districts). They have distinct customs, including polyandry and a few different festivals in comparison to Garhwal and Kumaon. Now, they are moving forward with positive changes like avoiding polyandry.
7. Rung
The Rung community, found in the Dharchula region, has a strong Tibetan influence in their language, food, and culture. They were historically traders with Tibet.
