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Mahabharata Tribes)
The Mahabharata Tribes
Chapter 5
"Map of ancient Indian kingdoms during Mahabharata periods"
THE MAHABHARATA EPITOMIZES THE INDIAN GENRE OF historical literature, known as Itihasa. It is the country's most famous history and epic poem. Yet it is far more than an ordinary narrative of events leading up to a great war, and encompasses both a philosophy of life as well as a code of conduct. The German Indologist Hermann Oldenberg observed:
"In the Mahabharata breathe the united soul of India and the individual souls of her people." The Mahabharata itself states that that which is not found here cannot be found elsewhere, so comprehensive is its treatment of dharma and the philosophy of life.
Two of the most popular prayers of the Hindus, the Vishnu Sahasranama (revealed by a dying Bhishma to Yudhisthira) and the Bhagvata Gita (enunciated by Krishna to a distraught Arjuna on the battlefield, on the very eve of the war), come down to
Author of Mahabharata
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us from the Mahabharata, The epic has traditionally been attributed to Vyasa, son of the sage Parasara and scion of the priestly Vasistha family, which was connected with the royal lineage of the Bharata. Vyasa is beieved to have attempted a cultural fusion of the diverse elements inhabiting the subbcontinent by incorporating the popular legends, royal eulogies and relgious poetry of the different regions, thus binding them in a geographical and cultural unity. The bard Gustavo (one who has an astonishing capacity to hear) was the first to publicly recite the epic at the sacrifice of the chancellor Saunaka (I.1.1).
The cultural material of the epic renders it an indivisible and organic whole that is intrinsic to the understanding of the Indian ethos. The Mahabharata provides a panoramic view of the society, politics and culture of the subcontinent. The present chapter is concerned with its census-like enumeration of tribes and the knowledge it reveals about their geographical location, physical and material qualities, and moral spiritual) fiber.
Dating of Mahabharata
Scholars generally concur that the Mahabharata cannot be dated with accuracy. However, the era from 1000 BC to 500 AD, during which the country's social and political institutions underwent considerable change and upheaval, is normally accepted for dating the epic There is also a view that the epic's core story hails from a much earlier period. The cultural material in Books XII and XIII possibly belong to the pre-Buddha era, while the ethnographically material (Which includes several names that remain untraced to this day ) is very ancient. K.C. Mishra believes that the list of tribes cataloged in connection with the Great War may therefore belong to a tradition prior to the Buddha. The period from 1000 BC to 500 BC broadly tallies with the age of the janapadas, wherein tiny tribal oligarchies vied for supremacy among themselves; the Mahabharata reflects the society and ethnography of thls peeriod, and depicts the thrus towards strong centralized political authority though a noteworthy political
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integration of a large part of the country was not achieved until the rise of Mauryas.
The Vedas, Brahmanas and Puranas mention tribes of different periods. The Rigveda discusses three categories of people, namely, Arya, Dasa and Asuras The Rig Vedic Aryas comprised several tribes, which increased in number over a period of time. Some tribes listed in the Rig Veda retain their names down to the present, such as the Yadu, Puru, Shiva, among others, while others changed their names following division and migration to new lands. The famous Dasarajna yuddha (RV VII.18) probably recalls an intra-tribal feud. Brahmana literature also depicts early Indian ethnography. The Bhuvanakosa chapters of the Puranas deal with the ethnography of ancient India, and are also included in the Epic (VI.I-13).
While the Rig Veda shows little knowledge of the region outside the Saptasindhu, the epics and Puranas tend to use geographical names, such as Sindhu, Panchala, Matsya (RV 7.18.9), Chedi, Kashi, Koshala, and so on. Yet it is only in the janapada period that the land and people become closely intermeshed. The Mahabharata speaks not only of Arya peoples, but of all beings. It speaks of Deva, Danava, Gandhara, Yaksha, Rakshasa, Naga, and other groups, though scholars are not certain if these were really a class of people who played a role in the events narrated in the epic, or constitute the remnants of an antique tradition that was incorporated into the story.
The Mahabharata ethnographers classified the natives of the land into three broad categories, namely, Arya, Mleccha (alien) and Misra (mixed). The theory of a single pure racial type in India no longer enjoys academic credibility, and it is also now accepted that there was no Aryan race but an Aryan language and culture. The same is true of the Dravidas. The term Arya as used in the Mahabharata denotes a way of life, and cannot be used to delineate racial strains in the ancient Indian tribes.
Aryanization of native tribes
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The incorporation of native tribes into Arya culture began at a very early stage. From the new evidence coming to light about tribal kingdoms in the Gupta and post-Gupta period, and their impulse towards cultural homogenization within their region through acceptance of the Sanskrit language and Brahmin priests and officers, we can surmise that this trend was most likely the result of a natural socio-cultural-political evolution rather than external stimuli. What makes the Mahabharata of special interest is the fact that it reveals a stage when the earliest tribal (kinship) grouping submitted to a larger regional national identity under the pressure of the emergence of some powerful Kshatriya kingdoms. The epic thus reflects a decline in tribal culture and transition to states.
The simplest definition of a tribe is a group of clans claiming common descent and united for a common purpose, such as war or sacrifice; it constitutes the oldest form of social organization and generally originates in a specific territory. The earliest terms used for such an organized human group in the Rig Veda were jana and vis. Zimmer regarded vis as identical with the tribe and different from grama which, he felt, represented a clan and was midway between family (kula) and tribe (vis). A.C. Das believed that an aggregation of Vedic families formed a gotra, a group, of gotras constituted a gosthi, and gosthis became a grama. A number of gramas formed a vis, (district) and an aggregate of the latter formed a jana (tribe). The word vis implies settlers and marks a change from the nomadic state; it was probably an early form of the janapada, the term used in later Vedic texts.
By the time of the Arthasastra, the word janapada (foothold of a tribe) connoted an administrative unit such as a district, country or state, which suggests that the older tribal settlers had merged into a much wider peasantry. The term rashtra, though Kautilya is not explicit about its usage, probably suggests a
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distinction between lands cultivated by the state (sita) and private lands (rashtra). Sita lands were managed by the state agriculture department under an officer called sitadhyaksha. Kosambi observes that at one time rashtra signified small tribal oligarchies which
paid tributes (bali) to the sovereign of the janapada, which Greek visitors described as the free cities in India. In later periods, the distinction between rashtra and sita land disappeared and the former came to signify country or nation. Thus, the janapadas were the last stage in the evolution of an ancient tribal organization. However, a janapada was not merely an area with a single authority for all inhabitants, but also denoted a cultural Unit.
Famous Warrior Tribes
The epic Mahabharata Parvas which mention about the tribes are as under with chapters
| S.No | Parva | Chapters with mention of tribes
|
| 1
| Adi Parva
| Ch: I.80, I.144, I.185
|
| 2
| Sabha Parva
| Ch : II.9, II.13, II.23-29, II.31, II.46, II.47, II.48,
|
| 3
| Vana Parva
| Ch: III.48, III.114, III.116.
|
| 4
| Virata Parva
| Ch:
|
| 5
| Udyoga Parva
| Ch: V.7, V.19, V.31, V.53, V.72, V.82, V.157,
|
| 6
| Bhisma Parva
| Ch: VI.6, VI.9, VI.10, VI.18, VI.20, VI.46, VI.47, VI.52, VI.68, VI.83, VI.112
|
| 7
| Drona Parva
| CH: VII.15, VII.61, VII.66, VII.67, VII.68, VII.165
|
| 8
| Karna Parva
| Ch: VIII.4 , VIII.17, VIII.30
|
| 9
| Shalya Parva
| Ch: IX.43, IX.44
|
| 10
| Sauptika Parva
| Ch:
|
| 12
| Shanti Parva
| Ch: XII.29, XII.200
|
| 13
| Anusasana Parva
| Ch: XIII.31, XIII.127
|
| 14
| Aswamedha Parva
| Ch: XIV.8
|
Note - This table is compiled by Laxman Burdak लक्ष्मण बुरड़क
The most remarkable aspect of the Mahabharata war was the recruitment by both the Pandavas and Kauravas of a veritable host of primitive tribes from jungles and inaccessible valleys, without discrimination, into their respective armies. Bands of fierce jungle tribes, known as atavika formed the bulk of the fighting forces on both sides (II.5.53; XV.7; 7). The epic duly acknowledged individual tribal warriors such as Eklayya (a Bhil) and Ghatotkacha (a Rakshasa) for their legendary courage and fighting skills.
The epic displays intimate knowledge of the different tribes in the different regions, as also of the special fighting skills for which they were renowned. Bhishma instructed Yudhisthira (XII.102) to recruit people in the various wings of the army after studying their particular modes of fighting. He expressed a preference for frontier peoples for handling different missiles, while the Gandhara, Sindhu, and Sauvira tribes were accomplished in fighting With nails and lances. The Usinaras were skilled in all weaponry, while the easterners were adept in elephant-back
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warfare, and notorious for using unfair tricks in fighting (Kutaayodhinah, XII.102.19f).
The Yavana, Kamboja and Surasena tribes (Mathura region) were proficient in fighting duels, and were also expert infantrymen (niyuddhakusala). The southern tribes were competent with the sword (XII.102.3-5), while the northwest frontier and Central Asian tribes were expert cavalrymen. The epic made a special mention of the Kamboja horse (VI.88) and the redoubtable Kamboja warriors who were celebrated for their stiff resistance, unity, discipline and military strategy (VII. 87.42f, 95.20).
The Shakas were reputed to be as powerful as Indra (VII.111.50). The Gandhara horsemen were skilled with the lance (prasa;, VII.6.3). The Ambashthas wielded the club with dexterity (gada, VII.68.59). The fearsome Trigarta warriors (comprising the
Lalittha, Malva, Mavellaka and Yaudheya tribes) took a ritual oath to "do" or "die" (VII.16). The Madra army was notable for its unique paraphernalia (V.8.3f).
The eastern tribes were experts in fighting on elephant back. The Magadha army was renowned for elephant warfare (V.164.24) and their king, Jarasandha, fought on elephant back (VII.91-26). Yet the most gifted fighters on elephant back were the tribes of Pragjyotisha (Assam), who trained their elephants to fight an offensive (not just defensive) war, as seen in the narrative about the elephant of king Bhagadatta (VII.25.26f) who led an army of Kiratas and Chinas. The Kiratas fought on elephants (VII.87.28f) and applied poison to their arrows (VII.87.30f).
Salvas were adept at the Asura mode of fighting (III.22,23), while the Shakas,Yavanas, Paradas and Balhikas were proficient in trick-fighting (VII.68.41.42). The Dravidas were capable warriors. The northern mountaineer tribes fought with stone weapons, a method of fighting (asmayuddha) unknown amongst the Kurus and other plains tribes (VII.97.29f)
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Tribes in the Great War
The Mahabharata records the names of tribes existing at the time of the Great War, thus reflecting the power and prestige of the tribal settlements, which were then a major political and military force. The tribal inventory has great historical value for modern scholars. Broadly, there are four principal lists in Mahabharata:
- Comprising respectively the tribes defeated by Yudhisthira's four brothers (Sabha Parva, Book 2 Chapters 23-29
- Tribes bringing gifts at Yudhisthira's consecration as king emperor Sabha Parva, Book 2 Chapters 45-48
- Tribes mentioned in the 'geography' in Bhishma Parva, Book 6 Chapter X
- Kings and warriors of various tribes, who came to the ceremony for investing Kartikeya with the status of generalissimo: Shalya Parva, Book IX Chapter 44
The tribes that participated in the Kurukshetra War find repeated mention in the daily battle formations of both sides. Some minor list of peoples are recorded in the digvijayas undertaken by the warriors on both sides (Robert Shafer prepared thirteen lists based on the Critical Edition). However, as the epic's ethnography is coloured by the Great War, the tribes mentioned (on the battlefield or in connection with conquests) are mainly the ruling clans of warrior tribes. The Mahabharata, it is worth recollecting is the story of India's greatest war since the Rig Vedic Battle of Ten Kings, and hence documents the largest number of tribes. An almost equal number of tribes fought on both sides of the conflict. Scholars consider the "geographical list" at the beginning of the war as an archetype of similar narratives in the Puranas.
The geographical list attempts to specify the locations of the various settlements of Bharatavarsha. It was probably compiled by a geographer of Madhyadesa,who placed the Kuru-Panchala country at the centre of his efforts and enumerated the various lands and people, arriving at a fairly comprehensive ethnographic dictionary of India. The tribal tributes to Yudhisthira give an idea of the wealth of the janapadas (Upayanaparva list) and document the economic products of India. Of course, it is not possible to clearly identify all the Mahabharata tribes today
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as tribal migrations and changes of name were fairly common. Another problem encountered is that the lists of peoples include those belonging to the pre-historic period as well as those of a later age. Altogether some 361 tribes have been listed, not all of which can be clearly located or identified; indeed, many of the tribes listed by K.C. Misra are also the names of clans, kingdoms, regions and territories.
Tribes listed on Pandava Side:p.116 - 120
- 1. Asmaka (अश्मक) - The Puranas associate them with the Iksvaku line of Kshatriyas and Bauddha scriptures refer to their land as a Mahajanapada. Identified with Paithan in Aurangabad district, this janapada may have comprised modern Nasik and Aurangabad. Fought with the Pandavas (VII. 61.39).
- धृष्टथ्युम्नश च थुर्धर्षः शिखण्डी चापराजितः
- अश्मकाः केकयाश चैव कषत्रधर्मा च सौमकिः (VII. 61.39)
- Asrodh (असरोध) Jat Gotra started after The Mahabharata Tribe named Ashmaka (अश्मक).[1]
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Kanana may be identified with Jat Gotra - Kanara (कंणारा) who live in Jaipur district in Rajasthan.
- 3. Karusha (करूष) - A very ancient tribe and prominent ally of Pandavas; possibly hailed from the south of Kashi. (VI.10.39)
- चेदिवत्साः करूषाश च भॊजाः सिन्धुपुलिन्थकाः
- उत्तमौजा दशार्णाश च मेकलाश चॊत्कलैः सह (VI.10.39)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Karusha (करूष) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Karesia (करेसिया) who live in Chittorgarh and Tonk districts in Rajasthan.
- 4. Kashi (काशि) - Listed in 'geography' (VI.10.38 and 40); were important allies of the Pandavas.
- शूरसेनाः कलिङ्गाश च बॊधा मौकास तदैव च
- मत्स्याः सुकुट्यः सौबल्याः कुन्तलाः काशिकॊशलाः (VI.10.38)
- पाञ्चालाः कौशिकाश चैव एकपृष्ठा युगं धराः
- सौधा मथ्रा भुजिङ्गाश च काशयॊ ऽपरकाशयः (VI.10.40)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Kashi (काशि) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Kasya (कास्या). [2] At present Kasya gotra Jats live in Mandsaur district in Madhya Pradesh. They are in villages Malhargarh in Mandsaur district.
- 5. Kuninda (कुणिन्द) - A widely spread tribe in the Terai of Hardwara (III.141.25), possibly of Jat stock. Also known as Kulinda (from the river Kalindi), their coins have been found near the source of the Yamuna-Ganga. Dwelled north of the Yamuna from Dehradun to Jagadhri. They were the first tribe to be subjugated by Arjuna when he moved northwards from Khandavaprastha (II.23.13 ). Sided with the Pandavas in the war and attacked the Kauravas with a formidable army of elephants (VIII.62.33ff).
- पूर्वं कुणिन्द विषये वशे चक्रे महीपतीन
- धनंजयॊ महाबाहुर नातितीव्रेण कर्मणा (II.23.13 )
- खशा एकाशनाज्यॊहाः परदरा दीर्घवेनवः
- पशुपाश च कुणिन्दाश च तङ्गणाः परतङ्गणाः (II.48.3)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Kuninda (कुणिन्द) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Kunawan (कुणावां) who live in Village Renwal in Jaipur district, Rajasthan.
- The Salvas were a branch of the Madras and were ruling at Sialkot. These Madras had a branch named Kuninda, who were related to Koliya Naga. We know that the Madras were Vahikas and Jartas. Since according to grammatical illustration of Chandra-gomin the Jarta defeated the Huns, which means Skanda Gupta defeated the Huns. Hence Guptas were Jartas or Jat. [3]
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- 6. Kundivisa (कुण्डी विष) - A tribe with professional soldiers who fought on both sides, they constituted a wing in Yudhisthira's army (VI.46.49).
- पिशाचा दरदाश चैव पुण्ड्राः कुण्डी विषैः सह
- मडका कडकाश चैव तङ्गणाः परपङ्गणाः (VI.46.49)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Kundivisa (कुण्डी विष) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Kundu (कुंडू)
- 7. Kunti (कुन्ति) - An important tribe (VI. 10.41) of the Bhojas, dwelled near Gwalior. Their king Kunti- Bhoja had matrimonial relations with Pandu; sided with the Pandavas.
- जठराः कुक्कुशाश चैव सुथाशार्णाश च भारत
- कुन्तयॊ ऽवन्तयश चैव तदैवापरकुन्तयः (VI. 10.41)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Kunti (कुन्ति) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Kuntal or Khutel (खुटेल)
- 8. Kekaya (केकय) - Famous bowmen in the Great War (VIII.9), Linked with Madra. They were equally divided on both sides. (VII. 61.39)
- धृष्टथ्युम्नश च थुर्धर्षः शिखण्डी चापराजितः
- अश्मकाः केकयाश चैव कषत्रधर्मा च सौमकिः ।।39।।
- The Kekayas were often associated with the Madras, the Usinaras, the Sibis etc and their territory had formed a part of the Vahika (Jat) country, according to the evidence furnished by Panini [4].
- 9. Kerala (केरल) - A southern Dravida people (VI.10.57) who stood by Yudhishthira in the war (VIII. 8 .15).
- दरविडाः केरलाः पराच्या भूषिका वनवासिनः
- उन्नत्यका माहिषका विकल्पा मूषकास तदा ।।57।।
- 10. Chedi (चेदि) - An ancient tribe and power of Madhyadesa, probably Bundelkhand region. Their king, Sishupala allied with Jarasandha, but after the latter's death, his son became an ally of the Pandavas and sided with them in the Great War. (VI.10.39)
- चेदिवत्साः करूषाश च भॊजाः सिन्धुपुलिन्थकाः
- उत्तमौजा दशार्णाश च मेकलाश चॊत्कलैः सह (VI.10.39)
- बाह्लिकास तित्तिराश चैव चॊलाः पाण्ड्याश च भारत
- एते जनपथा राजन थक्षिणं पक्षम आश्रिताः (VI.46.50)
- बाह्लिकास तित्तिराश चैव चॊलाः पाण्ड्याश च भारत
- एते जनपथा राजन थक्षिणं पक्षम आश्रिताः ।।50।। (VI.46.50)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Chola (चॊल) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Choyal (चोयल) Chol (चोल).
- 12. Tangana (तङ्गण)/Paratangana (परतङ्गण) - Famous pair of northern mountaineer tribes (III.141.24), they fought on both sides (VI.46.49; VII.197.36; etc.).
- पिशाचा दरदाश चैव पुण्ड्राः कुण्डी विषैः सह
- मडका कडकाश चैव तङ्गणाः परपङ्गणाः (VI.46.49)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Tangana (तङ्गण) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Tangal (तंगल) or Tangar (तंगड़).
- 13. Tamralipta (ताम्रलिप्त) - In the tribute list (II.48.17), probably modern Tamluk, Bengal. They joined the Pandavas in the war (VIII.17.2).
- वङ्गाः कलिङ्ग पतयस ताम्रलिप्ताः सपुण्ड्रकाः
- दुकूलं कौशिकं चैव पत्रॊर्णं परावरान अपि (II.48.17)
- पराच्याश च दाक्षिणात्याश च परवीरा गजयॊधिनः
- अङ्गा वङ्गाश च पुण्ड्राश च मागधास ताम्रलिप्तकाः (VIII. 17.2)
- 14. Tittira (तित्तिर) - A northwestern tribe that sided with Yudhisthira (VI.46.50). Their land was famous for its fine horses (VI.86.4), (IX.44.80).
- बाह्लिकास तित्तिराश चैव चॊलाः पाण्ड्याश च भारत
- एते जनपथा राजन थक्षिणं पक्षम आश्रिताः (VI.46.50)
- कॊकिला वदनाश चान्ये शयेनतित्तिरिकाननाः
- कृकलास मुखाश चैव विरजॊऽमबरधारिणः (IX.44.80)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Tittira (तित्तिर) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Tatran (तातरान) or Titarwal (तीतरवाल)
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- 15. Tumbupa (तुम्बुप) - Sided with Yudhisthira (VI.46.51); probably hailed from the region north of Narwar stretching from the foothills of the Vindhyas.
- अग्निवेष्या जगत तुण्डा पलथाशाश च भारत
- शबरास तुम्बुपाश चैव वत्साश च सह नाकुलैः (VI.46.51)
- 16. Dandaka (दण्डक) - Defeated by Sahdeva (II.28.43); they belonged to the forest regions of Bundelkhand. Joined both sides in the war (Pandavas VI.46.49; Kaurava, Vl.47.16)
- ततः शूर्पारकं चैव गणं चॊपकृताह्वयम
- वशे चक्रे महातेजा दण्डकांश च महाबलः (II.28.43)
- Though Dandaka was mentioned in the epic Ramayana, with great detail, a few mentions of this kingdom is found in the epic Mahabharata. In Sahadeva's conquests - Sahadeva, the Pandava general, and younger brother of Pandava king Yudhisthira, came to southern regions to collect tribute for the Rajasuya sacrifice of the king. Sahadeva, having exacted jewels and wealth from king Rukmin (ruling at the second capital of Vidarbha, named Bhojakata), marched further to the south. There he, reduced to subjection, Surparaka and Talakata, and the Dandakas also. The Kuru warrior then vanquished and brought under his subjection numberless kings of the Mlechchha tribe living on the sea coast (2,30). [5]
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Dandaka (दण्डक) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Dandak (दांदक).
- 17. Dashara/Dasharna (दशार्ण)- Listed in 'geography' (VI.10.39); possibly from the western Vindhya region. Sided with Yudhishthira (VI.4Magadha.
- चेदिवत्साः करूषाश च भॊजाः सिन्धुपुलिन्थकाः
- उत्तमौजा दशार्णाश च मेकलाश चॊत्कलैः सह (VI.10.39)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Dasharna (दशार्ण) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Dashpuria (दशपुरिया)
- 18. Dasheraka (दाशेरक) - A northern tribe, sided with the Pandavas (VI.112.108)(VI.46.46).
- ते विदेहाः कलिङ्गाश च दाशेरक गणैः सह
- अभिपेतुर निषाथाश च सौवीराश च महारणे (VI.112.108)
- दाशार्णकाः परयागाश च दाश्रेरक गणैः सह
- अनूपगाः किराताश च गरीवायां भरतर्षभ (VI.46.46)
- 19. Dravida (दरविड) - A southern tribe (VI.10.57), joined the Pandavas (viii.8.14).
- दरविडाः केरलाः पराच्या भूषिका वनवासिनः
- उन्नत्यका माहिषका विकल्पा मूषकास तदा (VI.10.57)
- 20. Nishada (निषाद) - In the 'geography' (VI. 10.50); subdued by Bhima (II.27.10) and also Sahdeva (II.28.5). Fought on both sides in the Great War (Pandava, VI.46.47; Kaurava, VI.112.108). Their strongholds covered the entire Vindhya ranges.
- शका निषादा निषधास तदैवानर्तनैरृताः
- दुगूलाः परतिमत्स्याश च कुशलाः कुनटास तदा (VI. 10.50)
सुकुमारं वशे चक्रे सुमित्रं च नराधिपम
- तदैवापरमत्स्यांश च वयजयत स पटच चरान (II.28.4)
- उथीच्यभॊजाश च तदा कुलान्य अष्टा थशाभिभॊ
- जरासंध भयाथ एव परतीचीं थिशम आश्रिताः (II.13.24)
- शूरसेना भद्र कारा बॊधाः शाल्वाः पतच चराः
- सुस्दराश च सुकुट्टाश च कुणिन्थाः कुन्तिभिः सह (II.13.25)
- पटच चरैश च हुण्डैश च राजन पौरवकैस तदा
- निषाथैः सहितश चापि पृष्ठम आसीथ युधिष्ठिरः (VI.46.47)
- Patachchara (पटच चर) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Pachar (पचार)
- पांशुराष्ट्राथ वसु थानॊ राजा षड विंशतिं गजान
- अश्वानां च सहस्रे थवे राजन काञ्चनमालिनाम (II.48.26)
- 23. Panchala (पाञ्चाल) - Major allies of the Pandavas; they played an important part in the epic.
- पाञ्चालाः कौशिकाश चैव एकपृष्ठा युगं धराः
- सौधा मथ्रा भुजिङ्गाश च काशयॊ ऽपरकाशयः (VI.10.40)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Panchala (पाञ्चाल) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Pachare (पचहरे).
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- बाह्लिकास तित्तिराश चैव चॊलाः पाण्ड्याश च भारत
- एते जनपथा राजन थक्षिणं पक्षम आश्रिताः (VI.46.50)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Pandya (पण्ड्या) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Pandya (पंड्या) who live in Tonk district in Rajasthan.
- थरॊणाथ अनन्तरं यत्तॊ भगथत्तः परतापवान
- मागधैश च कलिङ्गैश च पिशाचैश च विशां पते (VI.83.8)
- पिशाचा थरथाश चैव पुण्ड्राः कुण्डी विषैः सह
- मडका कडकाश चैव तङ्गणाः परपङ्गणाः (VI.46.49)
- पराच्याश च दाक्षिणात्याश च परवीरा गजयॊधिनः
- अङ्गा वङ्गाश च पुण्ड्राश च मागधास ताम्रलिप्तकाः (VIII. 17.2)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Pundra (पुण्ड्र) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Pundir (पुन्डीर). [6]
- 27. Paurava (पौरव) - The Cr. Ed. reads Parada, who brought tribute to Yudhisthira (II.47.10 and II.48.12). The Pauravas joined the Pandavas (VI.46.47 and VI.52.13). Arjuna conquered a Paurava settlement near Kashmir.
- पटच चरैश च हुण्डैश च राजन पौरवकैस तदा
- निषाथैः सहितश चापि पृष्ठम आसीथ युधिष्ठिरः (VI.46.47)
- 28. Prayaga (परयाग) - Were in the army of Yudhisthira (VI.46.46); could hail from Prayag region.
- दाशार्णकाः परयागाश च थाश्रेरक गणैः सह
- अनूपगाः किराताश च गरीवायां भरतर्षभ (VI.46.46)
- चित्रसेनेन सहिताः सहिताः पाणिभद्रकैः
- भीष्मम एवाभिरक्षन्तु सह सैन्यपुरस्कृताः (VI.47.9)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Bhadra (भद्र) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Bhadu (भादु)
- 30. Magadha (मागध) - Magadha was the most powerful country before the rise of the Pandavas at Indraprastha, but after the fall of Jarasandha, the empire was divided. Jarasandha's son Sahdeva was installed by Pandavas at their capital Giribraja (Rajgir) and supported them in the War. His brother Jalasandha and other princes of Magadha sided with the Kauravas (V.64.6, 164.9).
- पराच्याश च दाक्षिणात्याश च परवीरा गजयॊधिनः
- अङ्गा वङ्गाश च पुण्ड्राश च मागधास ताम्रलिप्तकाः (VIII. 17.2)
- पिशाचा थरथाश चैव पुण्ड्राः कुण्डी विषैः सह
- मडका कडकाश चैव तङ्गणाः परपङ्गणाः (VI.46.49)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Madaka (मडक) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Madkalya (मड़काल्या) who live in Tonk district in Rajasthan.
832. Matsya (मत्स्य) - An ancient people from time of the Rig Veda. The Mbh (II.13.27) records their defeat at the hands of Jarasandha. They were prominent allies of the Pandavas who lived incognito for one year at the court of King Virata.
- तदॊत्तरां दिशं चापि परित्यज्य भयार्थिताः
- मत्स्याः संन्यस्तपाथाश च दक्षिणां दिशम आश्रिताः (II.13.27)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Matsya (मत्स्य) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Machhar (माछर) found in Jaipur and Alwar districts in Rajasthan [7]
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- The Mahabharata Tribe - Marudha (मरुध) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Mirdha (मिर्धा).
- 34. Ladaka - Fierce northern tribes who joined the army of Yudhisthira (VI.46.18).
- 35. Vatsa (वत्स) - A prominent ancient people from modern Allahabad, mentioned in the 'geography' (VI. 10.39). They sided with Yudhisthira in the War (VI.50.51).
- चेदिवत्साः करूषाश च भॊजाः सिन्धुपुलिन्थकाः
- उत्तमौजा दशार्णाश च मेकलाश चॊत्कलैः सह (VI.10.39)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Vatsa (वत्स) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Vats (वत्स) found in District Muzaffarnagar in Uttar Pradesh. This gotra originated after an ancient kingdom of the same name. [8]
- 36. Vrishnis (वृष्णि) - The principal branch of the Yadava confederacy, which ruled in Anarta. Krishna belonged to this tribe (Vrsninam Vasudevosmi, Gita, X.37). Satyaki, an important leader, fought valiantly for the Pandavas. They are mentioned in the tribute list as a northwestern people, and numismatic evidence suggests a Vrishni settlement in northern Punjab. It is likely that a branch of the Vrishnis and Kukuras migrated from Dwarka after its downfall and settled in Punjab.
- महारदैर अन्धकवृष्णिभॊजैः; सौराष्ट्रकैर नैरृतैर आत्तशस्त्रैः
- बृहथ्बलः कृतवर्माभिगुप्तॊ; बलं तवथीयं थक्षिणतॊ ऽभिपाति (VI.20.14)
- 37. Shavara (शवर)- A southern tribe, they joined the Pandavas in the war (VI. 46.51).
- 51 अग्निवेष्या जगत तुण्डा पलथाशाश च भारत
- शबरास तुम्बुपाश चैव वत्साश च सह नाकुलैः (VI. 46.51)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Shavara (शवर) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Shiwar (शीवर).[9]
38. Huna (हूण) - A wild northwestern tribe (I. 165.35) which joined the army' of Yudhisthira. Indian Hunas came from the east of Lake Mansarovar in Nari-Khorsam.
- यवनाश च स काम्बॊजा थारुणा मलेच्छ जातयः
- सक्षथ्थ्रुहः कुन्तलाश च हूणाः पारतकैः सह (VI .10.64)
Tribes listed on Kaurava side: p.121 - 127
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1. Anga (अङ्ग) - An ancient eastern tribe and one of the Mahajanapadas in the Bauddha period, it constituted the core of the confederacy of five kingdoms of Anga, Vanga, Kalinga, Suhma and Pundra. According to the Mbh. and other sources, Anga comprised the present districts of Bhagalpur and Monghyr. It was under the suzerainty of the Kuru king, and hence Duryodhana could make Karna its ruler. Anga supported the Kauravas in the Great War.
- पराच्याश च दाक्षिणात्याश च परवीरा गजयॊधिनः
- अङ्गा वङ्गाश च पुण्ड्राश च मागधास ताम्रलिप्तकाः (VIII. 17.2)
2. Andhaka (अन्धक) - A branch of the Yadava confederacy, headed by Krtavarma. They alone sided with the Kauravas among the Yadavas (V.19.17).
- महारदैर अन्धकवृष्णिभॊजैः; सौराष्ट्रकैर नैरृतैर आत्तशस्त्रैः
- बृहथ्बलः कृतवर्माभिगुप्तॊ; बलं तवथीयं थक्षिणतॊ ऽभिपाति (VI.20.14)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Andhaka (अन्धक) may be identified with Jat Gotras - Andar, Andhala, Andhi, Audhran, Odhran, Oka, Ond etc.
3. Andhra (अन्ध्र) - A very ancient tribe mentioned as Dasyus in the Aitareya Brahmana (VII.18), as the result of a curse by Vishwamitra. Linked with Pulinda, Khasa, Nishada and other low peoples, they fought for Duryodhana (VIII. 51.17). The Mbh. (XII.200.40) describes them as natives of the south. (VI.10.48)
- अन्ध्राश च बहवॊ राजन्न अन्तर्गिर्यास तदैव च
- बहिर्गिर्य आङ्गमलथा मागधा मानवर्जकाः (VI.10.48)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Andhra (अन्ध्र) may be identified with Jat Gotra - [[Taka] or Takhar, Name of their tribe was Andhra. [10]
- According to Thakur Deshraj there was a great king in Andhra-vansh named Hala around 69 AD. The descendants of Maharaja Hala came from south to north and settled in uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. The Jat groups of these Kshatriyas were known as Hala.[11]
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Andhra (अन्ध्र) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Andar (अंदार) or Andara (अंदार) is Jat gotra same a Andhak. [12]
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Andhra (अन्ध्र) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Andhrana (आंध्राणा).[13]
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Andhra (अन्ध्र) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Vadiar (वाडियार) .[14]
4. Abhisara(अभिसार) - Mentioned in Rajatarangini, which locates their territory in the hill states of Rajapuri ( Rajauri). An infamous and barbarous tribe in Mbh. (VII.68.42); their clans fought on both sides, but were generally with the Kauravas. (VI.10.52)
- यॊ यॊनिप्रभवा मलेच्छाः कालकल्पाः परहारिणः
- दार्वाभिसारा थरथाः पुण्ड्राश च सह बाह्लिकैः (VII.68.42)
- काश्मीराः सिन्धुसौवीरा गान्धारा दर्शकास तदा
- अभीसारा कुलूताश च शौवला बाह्लिकास तदा (VI.10.52)
5. Ambastha (अम्बष्ठ) - A very ancient people, mentioned in Aitareya Brahmana (VIII.11). Ptolemy refers to them as Ambastai; they settled on the lower Chenab in Punjab and were important in the Kaurava army.
- अम्बष्ठाः कौकुरास तार्क्ष्या वस्त्रपाः पह्लवैः सह
- वसातयः समौलेयाः सह कषुद्रकमालवैः (II.48.14)
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6. Avanti (अवन्ति) - Joined the Kaurava army and hailed from western Malwa (capital Ujjain). Linked with the Haihaya dynasty in Furanic genealogy.
7. Ashvataka (अश्वातक) - Sided with Duryodhana (Mbh. VI 47.15).
- ततॊ थुर्यॊधनॊ राजा सहितः सर्वसॊथरैः
- अश्वातकैर विकर्णैश च तदा शर्मिल कॊसलैः VI 47.15).
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Ashvataka (अश्वातक) may be identified with nagavanshi Jat Gotras - Ashwatar (अश्वतर) .[15]
8. Ajaneya (आजानेय) - Part of the Gandhara king's army (VIII.4.96); fought for the Kurus.
- आजानेयैः सैन्धवैः पार्वतीयैर; नथीज काम्बॊजवनायु बाह्लिकैः
- गान्धारराजः सवबलेन युक्तॊ; वयवस्दितॊ यॊथ्धुकामस तवथर्दे
- Anjai (आंजई) is a place in Uttar Pradesh. It was the kingdom of Andhaka or the Antal gotra Jats.
9. Abhira (अभीर) - Ancestors of the modern Ahirs; were possibly confined to the Punjab and Mathura regions in the epic period. Krishna was brought up in an Abhira family. The Mbh. (II.29.9) states they lived in the western desert where the Sarasvati dried up in Vinasana out of hatred for them (IX.37.21f).Joined the Kauravas (VII.10.7).
- शूद्राभीर गणाश चैव ये चाश्रित्य सरस्वतीम
- वर्तयन्ति च ये मत्स्यैर ये च पर्वतवासिनः (II.29.9)
10. Aratta (आर्त) - A north-western tribe; part of the forces of Krtavarma (VII.165.69).
- विचेतसॊ हतॊत्साहाः कश्मलाभिहतौजसः
- आर्तस्वरेण महता पुत्रं ते पर्यवारयन (VII.165.69)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Aratta (आर्त) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Aratt (अरट्ट) Artat (अर्टाट).[16]
- H. L. Kosare after Mahabharata informs that Arattas had their three branches Takka, Vahika and Jartika. [17][18] All the tree branches belong to Jats.
11. Arevaka (आरेवक) - Fought in the Kuru army (VI.47.7). Possibly from southern Baluchistan.
- संस्दानाः शूरसेनाश च वेणिकाः कुकुरास तदा
- आरेवकास तरिगर्ताश च मथ्रका यवनास तदा (VI.47.7)
12. Karnapravarna (कर्णप्रावरण) - A Vindhya tribe defeated by Sahdeva (II.28.44), they brought tribute to Yudhisthira. Joined the Kaurava army (VI.47.13).
- विदर्भैर मेकलैश चैव कर्णप्रावरणैर अपि
- सहिताः सर्वसैन्येन भीष्मम आहवशॊभिनम (VI.47.13)
13. Kamboja (काम्बॊज) - An ancient tribe neighbouring Gandhara; in the forefront of Duryodhana's army. Their king Sudakshina was one of the maharathis in the Great Battle and died at the hands of Arjuna (VII.67.67f).
- सुथक्षिणं तु काम्बॊजं मॊघसंकल्पविक्रमम
- बिभेथ हृथि बाणेन पृदु धारेण पाण्डवः
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Kamboja (काम्बॊज) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Kamboj (काम्बोज) Kamboh (काम्बोह) who are descendants of rishi Kondilya (कोंडिल्य). They are also called Kamedia. [19]
14. Kitava (कितव) - Brought tributes to Yudhisthira (II.47.10); joined the Kauravas in the war (VI.18.12). Possibly an ancient Makran tribe as the gifts they bore match the products of Makran. Their king Uluka (IX.I.1.25) was the son of Shakuni (VI.68.5).
- सहदेवस तु शकुनिम उलूकं च महारदम
- पिता पुत्रौ महेष्वासाव अभ्यवर्तत दुर्जयौ (VI.68.5)
- ते वैरामाः पारथाश च वङ्गाश च कितवैः सह
- विविधं बलिम आथाय रत्नानि विविधानि च (II.47.10)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Kitava (कितव) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Kitawat (कितावत) who live in Jaipur district in Rajasthan.
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15. Kirata (किरात) - Hailed from the eastern Himalayas and played a crucial role in the epic. Their ruler Bhagadatta was a powerful ally of Duryodhana and brought a division of elephants to the Kauravas. (VI.20.13)
- शारथ्वतश चॊत्तरधूर महात्मा; महेष्वासॊ गौतमश चित्रयॊधी
- शकैः किरातैर यवनैः पह्लवैश च; सार्धं चमूम उत्तरतॊ ऽभिपाति (VI.20.13)
16. Kukura (कुकुर) - A very ancient northwestern tribe and branch of the Yadava confederacy.
Mentioned in (geography' (VI. 10.41) and the tribute list (II.48.14). Supported Duryodhana in the war (VI. 47.7) .
- संस्दानाः शूरसेनाश च वेणिकाः कुकुरास तदा
- आरेवकास तरिगर्ताश च मथ्रका यवनास तदा (VI.47.7)
- अम्बष्ठाः कौकुरास तार्क्ष्या वस्त्रपाः पह्लवैः सह
- वसातयः समौलेयाः सह कषुद्रकमालवैः (II.48.14)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Kukura (कुकुर) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Khokhar which is a derivative of Kukar. Khokhars are mentioned in Vayu Purana and Visnu Purana as 'Kokarakas'. [20] [21]
17. Kuntala (कुन्तल) - There were two Kuntala countries, one in the north and another in the south. The southern Kuntalas fought with the Kauravas (VI.47.12).
- पौण्ड्रकॊ वासुथेवश च वङ्गः कालिङ्गकस तदा
- आकर्षः कुन्तलश चैव वानवास्यान्ध्रकास तदा (II.31.11)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Kuntala (कुन्तल) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Kuntal (कुंतल).[22]
18. Kuluta (कुलूत) - Hailed from the modern Kulu- Kangra region and fought on the side of the Kauravas (VI.10.52), (VII.8.45).
- काश्मीराः सिन्धुसौवीरा गान्धारा दर्शकास तदा
- अभीसारा कुलूताश च शौवला बाह्लिकास तदा (VI.10.52)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Kuluta (कुलूत) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Kulawat (कूलावत)[23] or Kalwana (कलवाना). [24]
19. Koshala (कौसल) - A famous solar dynasty of the Ramayana era; played a minor role in the Mbh. King Brahadvala joined Duryodhana (VI.83.9), but some Koshalas joined the Pandava side (in VIII.8.19; 33.22).
- पराग्ज्यॊतिषाथ अनु नृपः कौसल्यॊ ऽद बृहथ्बलः
- मेकलैस तरैपुरैश चैव चिच्छिलैश च समन्वितः (VI.83.9)
20. Kshudraka (कषुद्रक) / (Malava) (मालव) - Both tribes (II.48.14) supported the Kauravas (VI.83.7).
- अम्बष्ठाः कौकुरास तार्क्ष्या वस्त्रपाः पह्लवैः सह
- वसातयः समौलेयाः सह कषुद्रकमालवैः (II.48.14)
21. Khasa (खश) - A famous Himalayan tribe in Nepal and southwest Kashmir; sided with the Kauravas. (II.48.3)
- खशा एकाशनाज्यॊहाः परदरा दीर्घवेनवः
- पशुपाश च कुणिन्दाश च तङ्गणाः परतङ्गणाः (II.48.3)
- शूद्राभीराद दरदाः काश्मीराः पशुभिः सह
:खशिकाश च तुखाराश च पल्लवा गिरिगह्वराः (VI.10.66)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Khasa (खश) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Khasa (खासा) Khasha (खासा) who live in Distt Sonipat in Haryana and Sikar district in Rajasthan.
22. Gandhara (गान्धार) - A northern tribe (VII.200.40) and key allies of the Kauravas. Their king Shakuni lived at the Kaurava court and guided their destinies. Gandhara generally denotes Peshawar and Rawalpindi, though Persian inscriptions reveal that it included Kabul ( Afghanistan). (VI.10.52)
- काश्मीराः सिन्धुसौवीरा गान्धारा दर्शकास तदा
- अभीसारा कुलूताश च शौवला बाह्लिकास तदा (VI.10.52)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Gandhara (गान्धार) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Gandhar (गान्धार) in Agra district in villages Bichpuri of Agra district.
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23. Govasana (गॊवासन) - Fought on the side of the Kauravas (VI.11.73), they also brought tribute to Yudhisthira (II.47.5).
- गॊवासना बराह्मणाश च दासमीयाश च सर्वशः
- परीत्यर्दं ते महाभागा धर्मराज्ञॊ महात्मनः (II.47.5)
- They are from place Gavasen in district Betul in Madhya Pradesh.
24. Chichchhila (ra) (चिच्छिल) - In the Kuru army with Mekala and Traipura (VI.83.9) of the central region.
- पराग्ज्यॊतिषाथ अनु नृपः कौसल्यॊ ऽद बृहथ्बलः
- मेकलैस तरैपुरैश चैव चिच्छिलैश च समन्वितः
- They are from place Chicholi in district Betul in Madhya Pradesh.
25. China (चीना) - A northwestern tribe (Darunamlecchajatayah VI .10.64); linked with the Kiratas in the army of Bhagadatta. Sided with the Kauravas in the war (III.174.12).
- यवनाश च स काम्बॊजा थारुणा मलेच्छ जातयः
- सक्षथ्थ्रुहः कुन्तलाश च हूणाः पारतकैः सह (VI .10.64)
- तदैव मरधाश चीनास तदैव दश मालिकाः
- कषत्रियॊपनिवेशाश च वैश्यशूथ्र कुलानि च (VI .10.65)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - China (चीना) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Chheena (छीना) or China (चीना). [25]
26. Chuchupa (-ka) (चूचुप) - Figured in Duryodhana's army (VI. 47.16); a southern people.
- दरदैश चूचुपैश चैव तदा कषुद्रकमालवैः
- अभ्यरक्षत संहृष्टः सौबलेयस्य वाहिनीम (VI. 47.16)
27. Tushara (तुषार) - A northwestern tribe (XII. 65), sided with the Kauravas (VI.75,VIII.73). (VI.10.66)
- शूद्राभीराद दरदाः काश्मीराः पशुभिः सह
- खशिकाश च तुखाराश च पल्लवा गिरिगह्वराः (VI.10.66)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Tushara (तुषार) may be identified with Jat Gotras - Tushar (तुषार) Tukhar (तुखार) Tusiar (तुसियर) Tusir (तुसीर) Tushir (तुशीर). This gotra originated from Tushara (तुषार) janapada mentioned in Mahabharata. This place is now in Gilgit. There was Tusharagiri mountain also. [26]
28. Tundikera (तुण्डिकेर) - Sided with the Kauravas (VIII.4.47); from modern Tundikhera in district Narasinghpur in Madhya Pradesh.
- मावेल्लकास तुण्डिकेराः सावित्री पुत्र काञ्चलाह
- पराच्यॊथीच्याः परतीच्याश च थाक्षिणात्याश च मारिष (VIII.4.47)
29. Trigarta (त्रिगर्त) - Dwelled between the Ravi and Sutlej; were major allies of the Kauravas. (VI.47.7)
- संस्दानाः शूरसेनाश च वेणिकाः कुकुरास तदा
- आरेवकास तरिगर्ताश च मथ्रका यवनास तदा (VI.47.7)
- The Mahabharata Book 2: Sabha Parva locates them along with Dasarnas, the Sivis, the Amvashtas, the Malavas, the five tribes of the Karnatas around Rohtak in Haryana as under:
- शैरीषकं महेच्छं च वशे चक्रे महाथ्युतिः
- शिबींस त्रिगर्तान अम्बष्ठान मालवान पञ्च कर्पटान (II.31.6)
- The Trigartas (त्रिगर्त) were ancient tribes of Mahabharata period which gave rise to many Jat clans, such as (1) Damal , Damara, Damas, Dhami, Dhamora (2) Kundu, Kadwasra, Kandoli, Kondal, Kont, Konth(3) Dangi, (4) Khanda, Khandaulia, Khandel, Khandia Khandaya, Khodiwal, (5) Jali, (6) Brahman, Brahma, Brahmayan and (7) Janar, Janvar, Janak, Janal, Janar, Janawa .[27]
30. Darvika (दर्वीक) /Darva (दर्व) - In 'geography' (VI.10.53); associated with Kashmir; fought with the Kauravas (VII.66.42).
- दर्वीकाः सकचा दर्वा वातजाम रदॊरगाः
- बहु वाथ्याश च कौरव्य सुथामानः सुमल्लिकाः (VI.10.53)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Tushara (तुषार) may be identified with Jat Gotras - Darv (दर्व) Darva (दर्व) Darawar (दारावार) . [28]
31. Dasam/ Dasameya - Kaurava supporters (VIII.51.22) from Punjab.
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Dasam/ Dasameya) may be identified with Jat Gotras - Daseya (दसेया) who live in Nimach district in Madhya Pradesh
32. Narayaia (नारायण) - A tribe of cowherds and professional warriors from Anarta, Kathiawar. The Narayana army was the personal army of Sri Krishna who gave them to Duryodhana after being chosen by Arjuna (V.7.16). They are also called Gopala (VII.66.38). It seems that other divisions of the Narayana army joined the Pandavas (VIII. 4.59). Probably indicates Punjab, as a region watered by five rivers; conquered by Nakula
- माचेल्लका ललित्दाश च केकया मद्रकास तदा
- नारायणाश च गॊपालाः काम्बॊजानां च ये गणाः (VII.66.38)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Narayaia (नारायण) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Narain (नरैन) originated from place name Narei (नरेई) surrounded by Capitalia. [29] It is one of the Jat clans as described by Megasthenes.
33. Panchanada (पञ्चनद) - Probably indicates Punjab, as a region watered by five rivers; conquered by Nakula (II.29.10). Sided with the Kuru army (VI.52.5; VI.20.10).
- कृत्स्नं पञ्चनदं चैव तदैवापरपर्यटम
- उत्तरज्यॊतिकं चैव तदा वृण्डाटकं पुरम
- दवारपालं च तरसा वशे चक्रे महाथ्युतिः (II.29.10)
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34. Pahlava (पह्लव) - A north-western tribe, defeated by Nakula (II.29.15); joined the Kaurava forces (VI.20.13).
- शारथ्वतश चॊत्तरधूर महात्मा; महेष्वासॊ गौतमश चित्रयॊधी
- शकैः किरातैर यवनैः पह्लवैश च; सार्धं चमूम उत्तरतॊ ऽभिपाति (VI.20.13)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Pahlava (पह्लव) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Pahlawat (पहलावत).
35. Panibhadraka (पाणिभद्रक) - A tribe in Duryodhana's army (VI.47.9), probably from the north Himalayas.
- चित्रसेनेन सहिताः सहिताः पाणिभद्रकैः
- भीष्मम एवाभिरक्षन्तु सह सैन्यपुरस्कृताः (VI.47.9)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Panibhadraka (पाणिभद्रक) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Bhadu.
36. Parada/Parataka (पारद) - In the tribute list (II.48.12); came from the west of the Indus near the ocean, and fought on the side of the Kauravas (VI.83.7).
- कायव्या दरदा दार्वाः शूरा वैयमकास तदा
- औदुम्बरा दुर्विभागाः पारदा बाह्लिकैः सह (II.48.12)
- ततॊ ऽनन्तरम एवासीथ भारथ्वाजः परतापवान
- पुलिन्थैः पारदैश चैव तदा कषुथ्रकमालवैः (VI.83.7)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Parada/Parataka (पारद) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Parodiya (पारोडिया) who live in Mandsaur district in Madhya Pradesh.
37. Pulinda (पुलिन्द) - A Vindhya tribe which joined the Kuru army (VI.83.7).
- ततॊ ऽनन्तरम एवासीथ भारथ्वाजः परतापवान
- पुलिन्दैः पारदैश चैव तदा कषुथ्रकमालवैः (VI.83.7)
38. Prasthala (परस्दल) - A Trigarta branch who fought in the Kuru army (VI.83.10); could have come from the Punjab or Sind region.
- बृहथ्बलात ततः शूरस तरिगर्तः परस्दलाधिपः
- काम्बॊजैर बहुभिः सार्धं यवनैश च सहस्रशः (VI.83.10)
- The Mahabharata Tribe - Prasthala (परस्दल) may be identified with Jat Gotra - Paras (परस) who live in Maharashtra. [30]
39. Bhoja (भॊज) - Descendants of Yayati's son Druhyu (Mbh.I.80.26), they were closely linked With the Yadavas in the epic. (VI.20.14) One branch headed by Krtavarma sided with the Kauravas.
- यदॊस तु यादवा जा