The Rabaris are a semi-nomadic tribe, following a pastoral lifestyle, inhabiting the Kutch and
Saurashtra regions of
Gujarat. The word Rabari literally means the one who dwells outside. They keep camels, goats, sheep, cows or buffaloes for their livelihood. There are permanent villages for Rabaris, which are occupied half the year. Men go out with their cattle, and the women live in the villages. On the basis of geographical criteria, Rabaris are generally divided into the Rabaris of Kutch, of Sourashtra, of north Gujarat and of
Rajasthan. As a close-knit community, Rabaris allow social participation in meals and smoking even among sub-groups. Marriage between sub-castes is not permitted.
Their artistic embroidery is most attractive. The women make toys with embroidery and bead-work, and they wear heavily done skirts and blouses on special occasions. Rabaris have an unwritten dress code that reveals the status and importance of a person.
