Bhotia-Guardians of Himalayas
Bhotia are brave hill folks who have always shown immense love and respect for the Himalayas.
They were traditional traders who dealt in many expensive commodities like shrubs and herbs, oils and shawls.
They were once nomads but later settled down in upper areas of Garwhal and Kumaon hills.
Being familiar with Himalayas, they are good mountaineers.
This community has produced icons like Nain Singh and Bachenderi pal who have scaled many heights.
Bhotia have cultural connections with Tibet and follow many
Tibetan rituals. However, they are Indians to the hilt.
They have found mention in ancient Sanskrit texts like Harsha charitam and Mahabharat.
They follow Hinduism and many take Lord Badrinath
(Lord Vishnu) as personal God. They also make engraved wooden temple figures of Lord Badrinath shrine
Bhotia love their dogs with great care. These dogs are so ferocious that even a lion cannot compete with them easily.
These dogs take care of personal belongings of their masters with vigilance. In cold climate, most of these bhotia move to plains. At that period, these faithful pets are caretakers of households.
Bhotia have mastery over handicrafts. They can produce excellent
carpets, which compete with Persians carpets in any manner.
Dr.Shivprasad Dabral, a noted historian of Garwhal has written about this community in his books. He referred to the upper areas of Himalayas as Bhotanic.(www.hillore.com/HTML/bhotanic.htm)
Government Of India has given schedule tribe status to them.
Now you can found them in every sphere of life be it government services or business.
These courageous men are known for their gentle attitude and love for environment. One can find lot of greenery around bhotia villages. They believe nature to be mother goddess who takes care of them. Therefore, like true off springs, they serve her with love and care!
(Pundit Ashish Dimri, a journalist wrote this Human-interest feature)