Marriage Customs of the Chero Tribe

The Chero tribe of Jharkhand is one of the prominent indigenous communities whose traditions reflect a fascinating blend of ancient practices and evolving social norms. Their marriage system is not merely a union of two individuals but a cultural institution deeply rooted in values, social organization, and historical continuity.

Endogamy and Exogamy

The Cheros Follow a Unique Marital Structure that combines endogamy at the community level with exogamy at the clan level. This means that while marriages must occur within the tribe to preserve cultural identity, individuals are prohibited from marrying within their own clan. This dual practice ensures both social cohesion and genetic diversity, strengthening the tribe’s collective identity.

Evolution of Marriage Practices

In earlier times, the Cheros practised early marriage of girls, a custom that has now almost disappeared due to education, legal reforms, and growing social awareness. Presently, marriages take place at a more appropriate age. The community largely adheres to monogamy, though polygamy is permitted in certain circumstances. Affluent landowners, who often seek to maintain their pseudo-Rajput status, sometimes face challenges in finding suitable grooms for their daughters, reflecting the intersection of wealth, prestige, and tradition.

Rituals and Ceremonies

Chero marriage ceremonies are elaborate, symbolic, and steeped in tradition. While they follow orthodox Hindu patterns, they also retain distinctive tribal elements.

• Bhanwar Ceremony: The couple circles an earthen vessel placed under a bridal canopy of boughs, symbolizing fertility and continuity.
• Bride’s Promise: The bride touches the groom’s feet, pledging lifelong fidelity and devotion.
• Sindoor Ritual: The groom applies vermillion (sindoor) on the bride’s forehead, marking her marital status. The groom’s brother then washes the bride’s feet and gifts her jewellery.
• Palmauri Tradition: The groom’s ceremonial head-dress, known as palmauri, is placed on the bride’s head, signifying her acceptance into the groom’s family.
• Amlo Ceremony: A distinctive ritual where a mango leaf is placed in the mouth while crying and lamenting. The maternal uncle pours water into the leaf. This is performed by the groom’s mother before his departure and by the bride’s mother upon the arrival of the wedding procession.

Widow Remarriage and Restrictions

Widow remarriage is permitted among the Cheros, though it is not widely favoured by affluent families. Typically, widows are expected to marry their deceased husband’s brother or cousin, though they may marry outside this circle by following prescribed rules. Divorce is strictly prohibited, and women found guilty of adultery are expelled from the caste and barred from remarrying, reflecting the community’s emphasis on moral discipline.

Property and Family Authority

Inheritance follows a patrilineal system. Property is equally divided among sons, while the eldest son assumes the authority of the father and becomes the head of the family. Women, though excluded from inheritance, play crucial roles in household and agricultural activities, contributing to food gathering, fuel collection, and farming.

Cultural Significance

The Marriage Customs of the Chero Tribe highlight the intersection of tradition, social hierarchy, and cultural preservation. These rituals not only unite two individuals but also reinforce community values and ancestral continuity. Despite modern influences, the Cheros continue to uphold distinctive practices that reflect their tribal heritage and social organization.

In essence, the marriage system of the Chero tribe is a remarkable blend of orthodox Hindu customs and ancient tribal traditions, embodying their history, culture, and societal norms. It remains a cornerstone of their identity, ensuring that their traditions endure across generations.