A Politico-Cultural History of Gujjars in the District Bhimber, Azad Jammu and Kashmir

Abstract

The tribal traits of the Gujjars make them unique. They live in many provinces of the Indian subcontinent. This article explains thepolitico-cultural history of the Gujjars of the Bhimber. They are abodes of Gujarat and Rajasthan and former Gurjistan (Georgia). It also explores the relations of the Gujjars with other tribes. Indian historians have proved that the origin and race of the Gujjar, Jatt and Rajput are one. It has been proven through DNA analysis. The current research article investigates whether the Gujjars and others have the same politico-cultural history or not.  This research throws light on the political history of the Gujjars of the District Bhimber, who have been living there permanently for many centuries. They are the owners of several specific lands, wherein they play an important role in the politics and economy. This research article throws light on the politico-cultural conditions of the Bhimber in general, particularly, a tribe of Gujjar. It also explains that they are the remains of ancient kings such as Porus, Kanishka and Jaypala. They have been gaining a majority in the election of AJ&K since 1947. A large number of MLAs are selected among them. But they are not associated with the same political party; that is why they have notmade their prime minister till now. This research discusses Gujjar’s MLAs of AJ&K. From the Bhimber, they always elect an MLA. They also earn a name in the local politics of it. However, they are considering a strong community of it. They have a huge vote bank in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, specifically in the Bhimber.