Published Paper Details:

Abstract The Pardhi tribes of the Solapur district had no means of subsistence other than forest. They were highly associated with the perennials of the forest and they had adjusted lifestyle as well as a culture with the natural environment. Until the 19th century, they did not have much contact with urban and rural communities. Their main occupations were collecting honey, medicinal plants, and wildlife hunting. Due to the protective forest, the life of the Pardhi community has gradually come in contact with the villages. Women began begging, as well as selling items such as needles, beehives, and plant products needed in urban culture. They started producing and selling local liquor. The production and sale of alcohol become their main source of income. Besides, their natural way of life led them to stealing and sometimes engaging in criminal activities. Besides, the thief gained a place as a hunter in his religious life. After independence, their lives began to stabilize and they began to integrate into civil society. Against this background, the present research has thrown light on the changing cultural life of the Pardhi community in the Solapur district. The present investigation is based on the observation and interactions with the community members. This study is descriptive and it has carried out in November 2020. The study revealed that the cultural environment of the Pardhi community is changing with changes in time. They are gradually giving up traditional belief systems and adapting to new approaches to living. They are progressively civilizing and giving up traditional occupations like hunting and stealing. The social orthodox of the community has also diverting into modern rationality. With the improving educational level and accessibility to the resources, community culture is in the transforming phase.