ABSTRACT
This chapter attempts to set the historical scene. After some speculative remarks on the early history of the subcontinent, it discusses the nature of the caste system, particular reference being made to the status of the agrestic or bonded serfs. The chapter stresses the importance of the trading links between the forest tribes and the wider society. It outlines the nature of Hill Pandaram society as it was in the early decades of the present century. According to early Sanskrit texts, at the beginning of the Christian era Southern India was covered by extensive and almost impenetrable forests, particularly along the Western Ghat mountains. The fact that contemporary Harijans are a grossly exploited class in no way entitles us to gloss over the degradation, poverty, and the lack of fundamental freedoms which their forefathers experienced under the 'traditional' social organization.
