The Bhar Tribe: Custodians of Heritage and Tradition

Introduction

The Bhar tribe is regarded as one of the oldest aboriginal communities of India, with a historical presence extending from Gorakhpur in Northern India to Saugor in Central India. Agriculture has long been their primary occupation, which explains their settlement in the fertile eastern districts of Uttar Pradesh such as Azamgarh, Gorakhpur, Jaunpur, Ghazipur, Gonda, Varanasi, Balia, Deoria, Faizabad, Basti, Mau, and Maharajganj. Beyond Uttar Pradesh, Bhar communities are also found in Bihar and West Bengal. Their mother tongue is Bhojpuri, though they also communicate in Hindi and Bengali, reflecting their adaptability and integration into diverse cultural environments.

Other Names of Bhar

The Bhar tribe is known by several names, including Rajbhar, Bharat, and Bharpatwa. Scholars suggest that the term Rajbhar signifies a landowning Bhar, highlighting their historical association with agriculture and land ownership. These variations in nomenclature emphasize the tribe’s diverse identity across regions and time, pointing to their enduring connection with the land and its resources.

Historical Significance of Bhar

The Bhar people are believed to have once held a prominent position in society. Their historical importance is evident in the forts along the Ganges and Jamuna rivers, known as Bhar-dih. Some of these forts are vast in size, showcasing their architectural skill and military strength. The tribe is also credited with excavating deep tanks, reflecting their engineering expertise and resourcefulness.

Archaeological Discoveries further highlight their significance. Sculptures found in a Hindu monastery near Mirzapur depict figures with distinctive head-dresses and long pointed beards, believed to represent Bhar individuals. Their posture and prominence in these artworks suggest that the Bhar were once a dominant race in the region.

The Bhars were partially civilized, as evidenced by their numerous works of skill. Their forts reveal a warlike inclination, suggesting they invested energy in defending themselves against enemies. Yet, they also pursued peaceful activities, balancing martial strength with cultural and social contributions.

Present Lifestyle of Bhar

Today, the Bhar people remain primarily cultivators, continuing their age-old association with agriculture. Some members of the community own shops, rear and sell pigs, or work in government and private sectors. Their staple diet includes wheat and rice, supplemented by pulses, vegetables, fruits, milk, and dairy products. They consume all types of meat except beef, adhering to religious beliefs.

The literacy level among the Bhar remains relatively low, reflecting socio-economic challenges. Socially, they are traditionally endogamous, with monogamy being the usual practice. However, a man may take a second wife during the lifetime of the first, but only with her consent. After marriage, couples typically reside with or near the husband’s family, maintaining strong kinship ties and community bonds.

Religious Beliefs and Festivals

The Bhar people are predominantly Hindus, worshipping major deities such as Shiva, Vishnu, Kali, and Bhawani. They also revere local deities like Agwan Deva (fire god), Phulmati (flower goddess), Deeh Baba, and Burhao Baba (aged sage). Their religious practices reflect a blend of mainstream Hinduism and localized traditions.

Festivals hold great importance in Bhar culture. They celebrate Diwali, Holi, Teej, and Maha Shivaratri, participating in rituals that strengthen community ties and preserve cultural heritage.

Conclusion

The Bhar tribe represents a fascinating blend of history, culture, and tradition. Once a prominent and possibly dominant race, their forts, sculptures, and engineering feats testify to their importance in ancient society. Today, while primarily engaged in agriculture, they continue to uphold their cultural identity through language, religion, and festivals. The Bhar Community remains a vital part of India’s tribal heritage, embodying resilience, continuity, and a living connection to the past.