Handicrafts heritage of Gaddi tribe of Himachal Pradesh

Abstract

The tribal people of Himachal Pradesh are living close to forests and facing unfavorable climatic conditions. Gaddi, the semi-agricultural tribe of Bharmaur area of Chamba district is identifiable due to their typical dress comprising topi, chola and dora. They sport a hukah (smoking pipe) in their hand and khalri containing cereals and other essential articles on their back. Due to tough topography and harsh climate, these people have developed their unique handicrafts, which is still manufactured as well as used by them. In the paper, an effort has been made to document the costumes, ornaments and various woven and other handicraft products used by the Gaddi tribe of Himachal Pradesh.