Points to Remember: This question requires a factual response. The keywords are “Verrier Elwin,” “books,” “Tribes of Middle India,” and “major.” The approach is purely factual, focusing on identifying specific book titles.
Introduction:
Verrier Elwin (1902-1964) was a prominent British anthropologist and administrator who dedicated his life to studying and advocating for the tribal communities of India, particularly those in Central India. His work is considered seminal in understanding the culture, traditions, and challenges faced by these groups. He authored numerous books, many focusing on specific tribes or broader themes related to tribal life and governance. This response will identify at least three of his major books focusing on the tribes of Middle India.
Body:
Major Books by Verrier Elwin on Tribes of Middle India:
While a definitive list of “major” books is subjective and depends on the criteria used (impact, scope, etc.), the following three consistently appear in discussions of Elwin’s work and are widely considered significant contributions to the field:
The Tribal World of Verrier Elwin: This is not a single book but a collection of his essays and writings, many of which focus on the tribes of Middle India. It provides a broad overview of his perspectives and research across various tribal groups. It’s considered “major” due to its comprehensive nature and its representation of his overall body of work.
Maria Murder and Suicide: This book delves into the specific customs and social structures of the Maria tribe, a Gond group in Bastar, Chhattisgarh. It’s considered “major” because it offers an in-depth ethnographic study of a particular tribe, highlighting their unique practices and beliefs related to death and social order. It showcases Elwin’s meticulous fieldwork and analytical approach.
The Muria and Their Ghotul: This work focuses on the Muria tribe, another Gond group, and their unique social institution, the ghotul â a youth dormitory system with significant social and ritual functions. The book’s “major” status stems from its detailed examination of this institution, providing valuable insights into Muria social organization, courtship, and marriage customs. It’s a classic example of anthropological fieldwork and analysis.
Conclusion:
Verrier Elwin’s contributions to the understanding of the tribes of Middle India are immense. The three books mentioned above â The Tribal World of Verrier Elwin, Maria Murder and Suicide, and The Muria and Their Ghotul â represent a significant portion of his scholarly output and offer valuable insights into the diverse cultures and social structures of these communities. His work continues to be relevant for understanding tribal issues and advocating for their rights and well-being. Further research into his extensive bibliography would reveal even more titles focusing on specific tribes and broader themes related to tribal life in Middle India. His legacy lies in his commitment to documenting and protecting the rich cultural heritage of these communities, promoting a more inclusive and equitable society.
CGPCS Notes brings Prelims and Mains programs for CGPCS Prelims and CGPCS Mains Exam preparation. Various Programs initiated by CGPCS Notes are as follows:-