The Dengari (Marathi: देंगरी) is a traditional type of [[fishing boat]] primarily found along the coastal regions of [[Maharashtra]], [[India]]. It is a relatively small, often wooden, vessel used by local fishing communities for various purposes, most commonly for artisanal fishing in near-shore waters.
Description
Dengaris are typically modest in size, making them suitable for coastal waters, estuaries, and sometimes rivers. They are constructed from wood, often employing traditional boat-building techniques passed down through generations within fishing communities. While specific designs can exhibit regional variations, they generally feature a simple, open-hull structure.Historically, Dengaris were propelled using oars or long poles. In contemporary use, it is common for some Dengaris to be fitted with small [[outboard motor]]s to assist with propulsion, although manual methods remain integral to their operation. Their shallow draft is advantageous for navigating closer to the shore and in shallower areas where larger fishing vessels cannot access.
Usage and Significance
The primary function of the Dengari is for [[fishing]]. Fishermen employ these boats for various traditional fishing methods, including net fishing and line fishing, targeting a diverse range of local fish and seafood species. Beyond fishing, Dengaris may also serve for short-distance transportation of goods or people within and between coastal settlements.The Dengari holds significant cultural and economic importance as an integral part of the traditional livelihoods and heritage of the fishing communities in Maharashtra. It represents a sustainable and community-based approach to fishing, often supporting individual families or small cooperative groups of fishermen.
See Also
- [[Traditional Indian boats]]
- [[Dhoni]]
- [[Catamaran]]
References
- Studies on traditional fishing vessels and practices in the Indian subcontinent.
- Ethnographic and historical accounts of coastal communities in Maharashtra, India.