Give a comparative analysis of the tribal and mainstream societies. Is tribal society more progressive than mainstream society? Argue with examples.

7.6% of the Indian population comprises of tribals whose culture differs from the mainstream culture significantly.

Comparative analysis

1. Regarding Women Mainstream culture is rooted in patriarchy which subordinates women & dowry sex bias On the other hand tribal societies are often matriarchial placing women with a high social regard @ khasi tribe → youngest daughter inherits property

2. Caste & Segregation Mainstream : society is divided on caste lines (brahmin, kshatriya, vaishya, shudra) and discriminate against lower castes @ untouchability against dalits Tribals : no such segregation everybody treated as equal

③ Religion Mainstream : focus & more on religiosity and ritualism → elaborate hawans, pooja Tribals : focus on deeper connection with almighty and natural spirits

④ Environment Mainstream : disregards forest, rivers etc → pollution of holy rivers, deforestation Tribals : worship natural spirits → sacred groves are protected. Bishnoi community → black buck conservation

⑤ Cultural erosion Mainstream : increased influence of westernization & globalization → celebration of halloween, individualism rising Tribals : still preserve their cultural richness → Bhoota Kola dance in dakshin karnataka.

1. family: Mainstream : increasing nuclearisation Tribals : live in big joint families, strong bonds, less intergenerational bonds.

Nevertheless mainstream culture can learn many progress virtues by studying tribal cultural ethos.