Malaneese of Malana glen: analysis of morphometric data and ethnic relationship with some neighbouring populations of Himachal Pradesh, India.
A morphometric study of the Malaneese - an isolated community living in the midst of Himalayas in district Kullu, Himachal Pradesh - is undertaken with a view to tracing their ethnic relationship with some neighbouring populations viz. Kinnauras, Kulwis and Lahulies, with whom they share some linguistic and cultural experiences. The data consist of 23 anthropometric variables which include 7 linear body measurements, 6 body diameters and circumferences and 10 head and face measurements. The Mahalanobis generalized distance statistics (D2) was used as the primary basis of analysis. The results show that Malaneese are a distinct population clearly distinguishable from the neighbouring populations of Himachal Pradesh. The distance statistics reveal closer morphometric affinity of Malaneese with the Kulwis and Kinnauras than with Lahulies. The lexicostatistical data together with historical records of the movement of people in this region lend support to the above findings.
Department of Anthropology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India.
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Sharma
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Bhalla
D000328:Adult; D000531:Altitude; D000886:Anthropometry; D005006:Ethnicity; D006801:Humans; D007194:India; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012934:Social Isolation