Dasa

The picturesque state of Himachal Pradesh’s claim to fame rests in its panoramic beauty, cultural legacy, tourism potential as well as the exuberant tribal populace. Among the varied tribal population, the natives of the Dasa tribe deserve special mention.


The people of the Dasa clan were the original inhabitants of the breathtaking hill station of Dharamsala. The tribesmen were formerly a noted warrior race of Himachal Pradesh. However, they are a low caste tribe and have attained recognition as a scheduled tribe by the state's government.

The Dasa tribal folks are friendly people who live in harmony. Like their remaining tribal counterparts, they too are industrious and assiduous people who lead a simple life. Although shrouded in poverty, the tribal people love life and at the slightest opportunities rejoice in cultural festivities with gaiety.


On flipping through the pages of history, it is evident that the Dasa tribe was a notorious enemy of the Aryans as testified by the chronicles of the legendary Rigveda. Subsequently, the term's connotation attained a negative tinge that signified a slave or bonded labor. There is not concrete evidence regarding the origin of the Dasas. Their roots are shrouded in mystery and it has been accepted that these dark skinned tribals were associated with the Indo-Aryan migration. Some historians claim that the Dasas possessed an Iranian origin.


The Dasa tribes are a vivacious race who loves to enjoy life to the fullest. A visit to Himachal Pradesh's tribal villages gives tourists an insight into their diverse culture.

Last Updated on 27 March 2012