Subject
Caste -- India -- Madhya Pradesh Books
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R. V. (Robert Vane) Russell
The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India, Volume 3
"The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India, Volume 3" by R. V. Russell is a detailed ethnographic study written in the early 20th century. This scholarly work focuses on the various tribes and castes found within the Central Provinces of India, exploring their origins, social customs, marriage practices, and religious beliefs, providing a comprehensive account of their lives and cultures. The opening of the volume introduces the structure and intent of the book, revealing its emphasis on a systematic approach to documenting the castes and tribes in alphabetical order. It begins with the Gadaria caste, describing their history as occupational shepherds, including their marriage customs, religious practices, and social organization. The text also hints at the broader cultural tapestry of these communities, emphasizing their unique traditions and the challenges they face in contemporary society. This portion sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the myriad castes and tribes that populate the Central Provinces, reflecting a rich cultural history worthy of further study.
R. V. (Robert Vane) Russell
The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India, Volume 2
"The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India, Volume 2" by R. V. Russell is a detailed ethnographic study written in the early 20th century. This work serves as a comprehensive account of various tribes and castes in the Central Provinces of India, compiling information on their social structures, customs, occupations, and village life. It aims to elucidate the complexities of these communities, considering their historical backgrounds and social relations. At the start of this volume, Russell introduces readers to the Agaria caste, linking them to the Gond tribe and explaining their traditional role as iron-workers. He goes into detail about their marriage customs, social structure, and religious beliefs, including diverse practices surrounding birth, death, and occupations. The book begins with an examination of the Agarias' two main divisions and their unique rituals, before moving on to discuss other groups like the Agharias and their lore, ultimately emphasizing the diversity and complexity of caste identities in this region.
R. V. (Robert Vane) Russell
The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India, Volume 1
"The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India, Volume 1" by R. V. Russell is an ethnological account written in the early 20th century. This detailed work, published under the orders of the Central Provinces Administration, serves as a comprehensive reference for understanding the diverse tribes and castes inhabiting this region of India. It aims to document the customs, traditions, and social structures of these groups, making it particularly relevant for government officials and scholars interested in the ethnography of India. The opening of the book includes a preface that outlines the purpose and scope of the work, noting its reliance on existing ethnological studies and the necessity for the classification of various tribes and castes. Russell discusses the rationale behind the book's organization, explaining that it follows a methodical approach similar to Sir Herbert Risley's work on Bengal, allowing for exhaustive coverage though at the risk of some repetition in descriptions. He also highlights that articles on religions and sects have been included to provide a more complete ethnological account of the region. The text sets the stage for an exploration of the complex societal structures within the Central Provinces, suggesting that readers can expect an in-depth investigation of the traditional hierarchies and cultural practices that define these communities.
R. V. (Robert Vane) Russell
The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India, Volume 4
"The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India, Volume 4" by R. V. Russell is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. It serves as an ethnographic study that provides detailed insights into the various tribes and castes residing in the Central Provinces of India. The volume particularly focuses on the social structure, customs, and traditional practices of specific castes such as the Kumhar (potters) and Kunbi (cultivators), offering readers an extensive understanding of their cultural dynamics. The opening of the fourth volume sets the stage for a comprehensive examination of the Kumhar caste, beginning with their origins and historical significance. Russell explains the diverse accounts regarding the Kumhar's ancestry, demonstrating its complexity and the variations in perception of social hierarchy among different sources. The text elaborates on the Kumhar's occupation as potters, their social customs—such as marriage traditions and rituals associated with birth and death—and their roles within the village community. Through this detailed exploration, the beginning of the volume illustrates not just the occupational practices of the Kumhars but also their place within the broader societal framework of the Central Provinces.
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