Santhal community clans (gotras or paras)
Santhal community clans (gotras or paras) In the Santhal community , there are several clans (gotras or paras) that function as social categories within the tribe. These clans regulate marriage, kinship, and social organization. The Santhal tribe primarily follows a totemic clan system , meaning each clan is associated with a totem (usually an animal, plant, or natural element). Major Clans (Gotras) of Santhals Santhals have 12 main clans (gotras), also called Paaris : Hansda (Duck) Murmu (Nilgai or Antelope) Marandi (Pigeon) Soren (Paddy or Grain) Tudu (Crane) Hembrom (Betel Leaf) Baskey (Star) Baske (Unknown origin, but different from Baskey) Champa (Flower) Kisku (Kingfisher Bird) Bedia (A type of grass) Pauria (Uncommon clan, origin unclear) Social Structure in Santhal Society Exogamous Clans : Santhals practice clan exogamy , meaning they cannot marry within their own clan. Matrilineal & Totemic Beliefs : Each clan is associated with a specific totem ...