Pallurs

Pallurs were ancient Indian rural communities and agricultural settlements that existed from the Copper Hoard period to the Medieval period. These communities were mostly found in the Indian subcontinent, particularly in the present-day states of Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan.

The term Pallur is believed to be derived from the Sanskrit word "PallAda," which means "village" or "settlement." These communities were typically located on the outskirts of towns and cities, where they engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry. Pallurs were known for their self-sufficiency and independence, relying on themselves for their food and livelihood.

The architecture of Pallurs was unique, with typical structures consisting of mud and thatched huts, surrounded by courtyards and animal enclosures. These buildings were often designed to withstand the harsh climate and were influenced by local architectural styles. The social structure of Pallurs was feudal in nature, with local chieftains or headmen holding authority and control over the community.

Pallurs were gradually incorporated into the larger Maratha kingdom in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. The Mughal Empire also had a significant impact on the Pallurs, with many being forcibly assimilated into the empires administrative and economic systems. Today, the legacy of the Pallurs can be seen in the traditional practices and symbols of rural communities in western India, such as the use of rural festivals, rituals, and agricultural practices. Despite their significant contribution to Indian history and culture, the Pallurs remain a relatively lesser-known aspect of Indian history.