Chameali Pahari is a tribal community seen in the states of
Uttar Pradesh and
Jammu and Kashmir. They speak a language known as 'Chameali'.
The tribe members manage their livelihood from agriculture. Women members perform most of the work in the fields. Their diets include milk, lentils, a few vegetables, a little fruit and occasionally meat.
Chameali Paharis live in small village settlements, which are generally situated near rivers or springs. Connected by footpaths, the homes are rectangular in shape with stone and mortar walls. Each house consists of slated, wooded or thatched roofs, and ornately carved and painted doors and windows.
They worship the idols of the five Pandava brothers, the heroic warriors of a Hindu epic. All their festivals are held with color and pageantry lure huge crowds. The women wear brightly colored clothes, heavy silver nose rings and earrings, and colorful head scarves during every festive occasion.
