Dhangars were an important pastoral community in Maharashtra. In the early twentieth century their population was estimated to be 467,000. The Dhangras were mainly shepherds. Some of them were blanket weavers, while a few reared buffaloes.

The Dhangars stayed in the central plateau of Maharashtra during the monsoons. The central plateau had very low rain fall and was very dry. It was covered with only thorny shrubs. As the soil was poor only dry crops like bajra could be grown there.

During monsoon the picture was entirely different. The area became a vast grazing ground for the Dhangar flocks. The Dhangars harvested their bajra by October every year and then moved westward.

Dhangar: The Shepherd Community of India

The Dhangar community, also known as the Dhangad or Dhangar Shepherd, is a pastoral community in India. They are primarily found in the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Goa. The Dhangars have a rich cultural heritage and a unique way of life that revolves around animal husbandry and agriculture.

Origin and History:
The Dhangar community has a long history that dates back to ancient times. They are believed to be descendants of the Indo-Aryans and have been mentioned in various historical texts. The word "Dhangar" is derived from the Sanskrit word "Dhenu" which means cow, reflecting their close association with cattle rearing.

Occupation and Lifestyle:
The Dhangars are primarily involved in animal husbandry, particularly sheep and goats. They are skilled shepherds and rear large herds of livestock. The community follows a semi-nomadic lifestyle, moving from one place to another in search of grazing lands for their animals. They have an intricate knowledge of the local geography, weather patterns, and vegetation, which helps them find suitable pastures.

Social Structure and Beliefs:
The Dhangar community has a well-defined social structure. They are divided into several clans or "gotras" and marriages within the same clan are strictly prohibited. The community practices endogamy, preferring to marry within their own community. They have their own set of customs, traditions, and rituals that are deeply rooted in their shepherd way of life.

Contribution and Challenges:
The Dhangars play a vital role in the rural economy as their livestock provides milk, meat, wool, and other by-products. They contribute significantly to the agricultural sector by utilizing their animals for plowing fields and manure. However, the community faces various challenges such as land encroachment, lack of education, and limited access to healthcare facilities. These challenges have hindered their socio-economic development.

Cultural Significance:
The Dhangar community has a rich cultural heritage. They have their own folk songs, dances, and musical instruments. The "Dhangari dhol" and "tutari" are traditional musical instruments associated with their culture. They celebrate various festivals and fairs, which provide an opportunity for the community to come together and showcase their unique traditions and customs.

In conclusion, the Dhangar community is an integral part of India's cultural diversity. Their lifestyle, occupation, and cultural practices make them a unique community. Despite the challenges they face, the Dhangars continue to preserve their traditions and contribute to the rural economy through their expertise in animal husbandry.