Rabari Tribe — The Nomadic Herders of India

• Mythological Origin: According to Rabari myth, they were created by Lord Shiva to tend to the camels of Goddess Parvati. They consider themselves the protectors of animals.
• Occupation: Traditionally, they are nomadic pastoralists. They rear camels, sheep, goats, and cattle. The men wander with the herds for months looking for pastures, while women manage the villages and finances.
• Regions: They are most heavily concentrated in the Kutch and Saurashtra regions of Gujarat, and the Marwar region of Rajasthan.

• Men: Wear a pure white cotton Kediyu (a pleated, flared jacket) with a white Dhoti. They carry a wooden stick and wear a striking turban. White represents purity.
• Women: Wear black skirts (Ghaghra) with dark, heavily embroidered backless blouses (Kanchali). They wear a dark veil (Odhni). The black colour is said to signify mourning for a mythological king they once served.

The Rabari women are globally renowned for their spectacular Rabari Embroidery. It is characterised by vibrant colours, the extensive use of shaped mirrors (shisha), and chain stitching. Their embroidery depicts their nomadic life, flora, fauna, and mythology.