The large tribe of Bhils is primarily spread across Western and Central India. Let's understand the reasons behind this distribution and explore the characteristics of the Bhil tribe.

Distribution of the Bhil Tribe:

1. Western India:
- The Bhil tribe is predominantly found in the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra in Western India.
- In Rajasthan, they are mainly concentrated in the districts of Udaipur, Dungarpur, Banswara, and Sirohi.
- In Gujarat, they are primarily found in the districts of Sabarkantha, Panchmahal, and Dahod.
- In Maharashtra, they inhabit the areas of Thane, Nashik, Dhule, and Nandurbar.

2. Central India:
- The Bhil tribe also has a significant presence in the central Indian states of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.
- In Madhya Pradesh, they are predominantly found in the districts of Jhabua, Alirajpur, Khargone, and Khandwa.
- In Chhattisgarh, they primarily inhabit the Bastar region, including districts like Dantewada, Kanker, and Narayanpur.

Reasons for the Distribution:

1. Historical Factors:
- The Bhil tribe has a long history and has been inhabiting the region for centuries.
- They have traditionally occupied the hilly and forested areas of Western and Central India, which provided them with natural resources and a conducive environment for their livelihoods.

2. Geographical Factors:
- The hilly terrain, dense forests, and rivers in Western and Central India have provided the Bhil tribe with favorable living conditions.
- These regions offer them opportunities for hunting, gathering forest produce, and practicing agriculture on a subsistence level.

3. Cultural and Linguistic Affinities:
- The Bhil tribe shares cultural and linguistic affinities with other tribal communities in Western and Central India.
- This has contributed to their concentration in these regions as they have formed social networks and alliances with neighboring tribes.

Characteristics of the Bhil Tribe:

1. Occupation:
- Historically, the Bhil tribe has been engaged in activities like hunting, gathering forest produce, and shifting cultivation.
- With modernization, many Bhils have transitioned to settled agriculture, wage labor, and other occupations.

2. Social Structure:
- The Bhil tribe has a hierarchical social structure, with clans or lineages forming the basis of their social organization.
- The village headman, known as the Patel, plays a significant role in resolving disputes and maintaining social order.

3. Culture and Beliefs:
- The Bhil tribe has a rich cultural heritage, encompassing folk songs, dances, and traditional art forms like Pithora painting.
- They have their unique religious beliefs, which blend elements of animism, ancestor worship, and Hinduism.

In conclusion, the large tribe of Bhils is primarily spread across Western and Central India. The historical, geographical, and cultural factors have contributed to their concentration in these regions, where they have developed their unique way of life, social structure, and cultural practices.