bhedas

Bhedas are a community or ethnic group predominantly found in regions of India, especially in the state of Maharashtra. The term "Bheda" is sometimes used interchangeably with "Bali" or "Bheda" communities, and their traditional occupations often include hunting, animal husbandry, and related agro-pastoral activities.

Historically, Bhedas have been associated with forest-dwelling lifestyles, and they are believed to have roots in indigenous or tribal populations. Many Bheda communities have preserved distinct customs, dialects, and cultural practices influenced by their close relationship with nature and rural livelihoods. Their social structure often revolves around kinship ties, and they tend to follow traditional customs and rituals tied to agriculture and wildlife.

In contemporary times, Bhedas are recognized as a Scheduled Tribe or Other Backward Class in various Indian states, which grants them access to affirmative action benefits aimed at social and economic development. Although many Bhedas have transitioned to diverse occupations such as agriculture, labor, and small-scale trades, elements of their cultural heritage remain integral to their community identity.

Despite facing social and economic challenges, efforts are underway to document and preserve the cultural traditions of the Bheda community. Their history and contemporary circumstances reflect broader themes of tribal integration, rural development, and cultural preservation in India.