Culture plays a vital role in understanding the local inhabitants of Jammu. Their festivals and lifestyle tell you a lot about them. During your visit to Jammu, you will meet residents of various tribes, religions, and castes. Also, the mountainous terrain of the Himalayas has influenced these people's lifestyles.
Different Cultures of Jammu
Jammu is home to people belonging to various sections of society. Hindu Brahmin priests enable Indian and foreign pilgrims to worship at the various temples in Jammu. The Amarnath Cave and Vaishno Devi are two famous temples in Jammu. Other religious sections of society living in Jammu are Sikhs, Buddhists, and Muslims. Dogras, Chablis, Sudan, Kishtwari, Khatris, Mahajans, and Paharis are some of the ethnic tribes in Jammu. Some of the significant tribes are given below:
Dogras- They belong to the Aryan tribe who came to India in ancient times. Later, they branched out into higher castes of Brahmins and Rajputs and merchant classes of Mahajans and others. Some embraced Sikhism and Islam when these religions influenced this region of India. They speak Dogri. Like Punjabis, Dogras are known to be brave people. The Dogra Regiment in the Indian Army is proof of this fact. Heren and Kud are Dogra theater and dance styles performed during festivals in Jammu.
Gujjars - Muslim Gujjars form a significant section of Jammu inhabitants. They are basically from Gujarat and Rajasthan and speak Gujarati. They are unlike hilly people; they are tall and have handsome features. Their lifestyle is semi-nomadic to nomadic. Herding sheep and mountain cattle is their primary occupation.
Chibali - Chibalis is a small race in Jammu. They are usually followers of Islam. Unfortunately, though, some are also Buddhists. They speak the language, Dogri and are of Punjabi descent.
Sudhan - Another Muslim section of Jammu, the Sudhans, speak both Kashmiri and Dogri languages.
Lifestyle and Festivals in Jammu
People in Jammu lead a rather basic lifestyle. Their home interiors, garments, and everyday food are effortless. They are religious, warm, friendly, affectionate and helpful. Festivals are celebrated with fancy dresses and merriment, unlike their usual lifestyle. Some of the major festivals celebrated in Jammu are:
- Lohri
- Baisakhi
- Shivratri
