The Rabari people (also known as Rebari, Raika, Desai and Dewasi people) are a caste group from Rajasthan, Kutch region of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Haryana, Punjab of India and the Sindh province of Pakistan.[1] [2]
The Rabari is camel holder warriors.
According to Sigrid Westphal-Helbusch, significant migrations of Rabaris took place between 12th to 14th century, when they moved from Marwar to Sindh and Kutch. The migrations of Rabaris in fact follow similar paths as that of Rajputs and Charans, two other migrant group in this region, indicating intertwined histories. Westphal-Helbusch ascribes the goddess worship traditions of Rabaris to the Charan influence.[3]
There are reported 133 groups found among the Rabari caste those are also known as Atak (Hakh)[4] some most important classes of Rabari clans are including
Khatana (ખટાણા, ખટોણા)
Rojiya (રોજીયા)
Karotra
Bungor
Azana
Karamta,
Hun
Makona
Hodanchi
Khabla
Ghanghol
Nogoh
Bombaria
Lodha
Shekha
Uchol
Lalotra And some other locally know clans.
Rabaris were known for their elaborate Trajva tattoos. They are usually done on the forearms, face, throat. The tattoo can have a range of meanings, including representations of fertility or skill milestones. Green sap from a nearby plant is mixed with soot to make the tattoos.[5]