History:

The name "Banjara" likely comes from the Sanskrit word "Vanijya," which means trade. Some legends say they were part of Lord Rama's army, providing supplies. Historically, the Banjaras were important traveling traders who supplied armies and communities throughout India. This name reflects their traditional job and lifestyle as traveling merchants, closely connected to the movement of goods. It represents a strong and adaptable community that played a key role in the economy and society of the areas they traveled.

Description:

The Banjara community, known by various names throughout India, possesses a distinct cultural identity. Historically, they were pastoralists and traders who transported goods and facilitated inland trade. Their nomadic lifestyle fostered a diverse culture with open attitudes toward religion, family, and women, distinguishing them from mainstream orthodox Hindu society. Banjara art is rich, encompassing dance, music, rangoli, embroidery, tattooing, and painting; Lambani embroidery is especially valued. They celebrate festivals such as Sheetala Bhavani, Gangaur, Diwali, and Holi with unique rituals. They worship deities like Balaji and Jagadamba and deeply respect Guru Nanak. Sevalal is their most important saint. Traditional Banjara society is structured around exogamous clans, tribal endogamy, the Gor-Boli language, tanda settlements, and tribal councils that resolve disputes.

The Banjara people typically speak Lambadi, which is also known as Lambani or Banjari.

Banjari, Vanjari, and Banjaree are different spellings and pronunciations of the name Banjara.

"Bahn-jah-rah," with the syllables "bahn-jah-rah." While generally pronounced similarly across regions, subtle tonal variations might exist depending on the specific dialect, but emphasizing the first syllable ("bahn") can help ensure clarity with this name.