Sounti Tribe

Sounti tribes are one of the principal tribes that are mainly found in the Keonjhar district of Orissa.

Among the forty-six scheduled tribes of Orissa, Sounti is the one of the sixteen principal tribes that has attained recognition. These Sounti tribes used to maintain a very good rapport with the rest of the tribes like Bathudi, Bhuyan, Bhumij, Gond, Ho, Juang, Kharwar, Kisan, Kolha etc.

These Sounti tribes mainly are found in the Keonjhar district. Quite a few are also found in the Anandapur subdivision of the state. The census report of India too validates this observation of the anthropologists.

Sounti tribal people are endogamous people and are ramified in exogamous groups called Khilis. Some of the Khilis of Sounti tribes are Baghsingh, Balaria, Naik, Paida, Palia, Das, Sarpuria, Ankulia, Chipindia, Giri, Kusmalia etc.

The people of Sounti tribal groups are basically agricultural people. The women of this tribal group work as daily labourers and household activities. Apart from cultivation, the people of this group are also employed in different services, though the percentage is very low.

The people of the Sounti tribal community converse with each other mostly in Sounti language, which belongs to the famous language family of Indo-Aryans. Festivals, dance, music are integral part of the Sounti tribes. These Sounti tribes are also pious and religious minded and revere a handful of tribal deities. Dharam Devata is the Sun god and Basuki Mata is the goddess Earth.

The stature and characteristics of the Sounti tribal males closely resemble the features of Konda Paroja, Kodaku, Munda, Korwa, Asur, Juang, Saora, Maler etc tribal communities and the female members of this tribal group share similarity with the Kond and Asur tribal communities.

Saora Tribe

Saora tribes of Orissa have got mention in the epic of Ramayana and enriched culture and tradition of Orissa.

Saora tribes are the inhabitants of the district of Ganjam and they are found in great numbers in this area. Regarding the origin of these Saora tribes, a myth is popular amongst the locales.In fact numerous anthropologists have traced that there is a mentioning about the Saora tribes even in the great epic of Ramayana. It has been written that Savari, a Saora woman whom Lord Rama and Laxman met while moving about in the Dandaka forests in search of Sita. Just like many of the tribes of the whole of the region, these Saora tribes too have been able to maintain their originality in tact over all these years. Dance, festivals, music, rites and rituals bear the traces of their ancient culture and ethnicity.

The Saora tribes are adept in art, paintings and craft. Their well known paintings which are fascinated among the people of the India, Saora paintings, are initiated by this tribal group residing in Orissa. Pictures of mundane life of the Saoras are the themes of the paintings. They use trees, tribal people, and animals as their motifs for the paintings. Sometimes they use the sequences from Sambalpuri dance. They draw these motifs in geometrical shapes on Tussar silks. Sometimes, they use these kind of motifs are also used on the walls of their houses.

The Saora paintings are interlinked with the religious belief of this tribal community. For this reason, they think that this kind of paintings in the walls is symbols of luck and fortune. The tribal group also believes in evil spirits and worships them to stave off the demons and spirits.

Gadaba Tribe

Gabada tribes are the ancient tribe of India and are mainly agrarian people.

The Gabada tribe is reckoned as one of the oldest and jovial tribes in India. These Gabada tribes mostly are located in the southern fringes of the Koraput district. Apart from being singularly attractive tribe Gadabas are also friendly and hospitable. Their villages with square or circular houses and conical roofs and gaily dressed women, present a picturesque sight. It is believed that they have their ancestral home in the north Vindhya mountain ranges. In fact Gabada has got a link with Gada, which is a name of brook or a streamlet found in this portion of the Indian Territory. The houses of these Gabada truly reflect their cultural heritage.

The society of the Gadaba tribe can be best understood in the villages. Each community is headed by a leader. Their main occupation is agriculture but they also give due importance to cattle rearing. The social set up this tribe is also interesting because it has unique rules for marriage and even building houses.

Agriculture is the main occupation of the Gabada tribe, thus making their society an agrarian one. Moreover, some of them involve in other activities like gathering forest products, fishing and hunting. They use animals and its products for various purposes. The cows and buffaloes are utilized mainly for ploughing. They do not milk the cows, as they believe it reduces the strength of the animals.

The Gadabas also regard cattle-raising as the true source of their wealth. They believe in sacrificing pigs, cows and buffaloes at the altar of their Vanadevata (god of the jungle). Almost every family rears pigs irrespective of its status and size and keep dogs to ward off evil spirits.

A Gadaba woman usually wears a two-piece dress which is very colourful, often striped in red, blue and white, which is woven by the women themselves. The textile is made from the bark of the kereng plant. The ornaments they wear are not very different from those of other tribals. They wear beads of various colours in the hair, silver necklaces and very big brass earrings. The kerengis are being slowly replaced by the sari. Men wear only a piece of cloth `Languti` with a flail which hangs in front.

The religion of the Gadaba tribe is basically Hindu. This particular tribe worships several gods and goddesses. Religious festivals form an interesting as well as important part of their lifestyle. They worship an array of gods and goddesses. They celebrate festivals and occasions like Dussehra, andapana parab and chaita parab.

These Gabada tribes have developed their own language, which is popularly known as Gutub.

Koli Tribe

Koli tribes are divided into several tribal groups and are descendants of White Huns.

Koli tribes are said to be one of the ruling Kshatriya castes and were settled in several parts of India, especially in Orissa. They were the group of people who earn their reputation for their heroic deeds and courage and are the ancient tribes of India. The term Koli is a derivation of the English term coolie. However, according to few many scholars, Koli comes from a word in Sanskrit language. It is Kula, which signifies a clan.

The Koli society has a number of divisions namely Koli Raja, Koli Kshtria, Koli Suryavanshi, Koli Mahadev, Koli Thakor, Koli Rajput, Koli Patel, Pathanvadia, Mein Koli, Mandhata Patel, Nagarkoli, Gondakoli, Bavraya, Tharkarda, Koyeri etc. Although Koli tribes can be segregated into several groups, the Koli tribes can be broadly divided in to two broad divisions, namely, the Hill Koli tribes and the Sea Koli tribes. Sea Koli tribes are also known as Son Koli. The Son Koli tribes represent the highest group and the Dhor Koli falls just below the Son tribes in terms of the total number of people.

As per the popular saying, the word `Son` signifies turmeric. All the members of these tribes regard this color to be very sacred as the family God Dhandoba, is painted in `Son` color, i.e. `golden` or `yellow` colour. Apart from these three broad divisions, other groups of Koli tribes are Bhas or `pure` Kolis; Akaramase or `impure` Kolis; Dshatreiga, Naiks, Nimar or soldiers; the begging Kolis, Watandars (village sentries), and the Mohammedan Kolis.

A little has been known about the origination of these Koli tribes in Orissa. However, over the years several anthropologists have tried to enlighten the people with various theories. According to one school of thought, they have been migrated from the foreign countries, while another school holds that these Koli tribes belong to the western group of the great Kol or Munda tribal family. As per the history, the Kolis are possibly transmigrated from Sind and were said to be the descendants of White Huns. There are also some other opinions, which also are quite significant. Like the Bhil tribes of India, these Koli tribes too are thought to adapt to the practice of robbery during 18th century. Hence till date, the term `hill robbers` was used to identify a class of Kolhi tribes. Also there is a popular saying that `The Koli was born from Lord Shiva`s wallet.` The Son Kolis have got ancient origin. In fact according to the Mahikavatichi Bakhar Koli tribes and quite a number of other tribes of the region have emigrated in the region as early as 1138 A.D. It was at the time of Pratap Bimb`s invasion to Mahim.

The Koli tribes basically converse in Marathi language, which belongs to the Indo-European language family. Also there are various dialects, which are also spoken widely by several groups of these Koli tribal communities. These Koli tribes have got unique style of building houses, which again differ from region to region. These include simple huts with thatched roofs, mud walls, and also mud floors to decorative homes with roof full of tiles, brick walls, and coated or cement flooring.

As far as the occupations of these Koli tribes are concerned, these tribes mainly have taken up fishing as their major occupation. Some of the members of these Koli tribes too have worked as `village servants`, village sentinels, and luggage `handlers`. The meals that these Koli tribes generally consume in large amount are fish, fowl, and pork. However, they restrained from devouring things like from beef, and different types of alcohol. Unlike many of the tribes of the region, the anthropologists have rightly found out that the status and prestige of these Koli tribes are not that of the untouchables since other tribes of high castes accept water from almost all the groups of Koli tribes.

Marriage plays an important role in the life of any of the Koli tribal communities. They follow the rules of exogamy. Marriage is prohibited between the members of the same clan or sector and also a man cannot marry the daughter of his maternal uncle. Koli girls usually got married at quite an early age. Ceremony, rituals and norms associated with the Koli marriage too are quite luxuriant thereby ennobling the whole culture of the tribal community.

Marriage is a sacred bond among the tribal people of Kolis. The marriage is completed by the priest or Brahman. The marriage is held at the time of sunset when both the bride and the groom hold a cloth and as the sun sets in slowly it is dispatched and they hold their hands. This was followed by the marching of the couple almost seven times round a stone slab covered by four braces of a plough. Maximum of these Koli tribes are devotee of all the Hindu gods and goddesses. Followers of Islam religion are only a handful.

The Koli tribes are basically the followers of Hindu religions. The supreme deity of the Koli tribes is the goddess Bhawani, and almost each and every home of Koli tribe has a silver idol of the goddess. Some of the Koli tribes regard Khandoba, another deity, as an incarnation of Lord Shiva. All the fishermen community reveres the sea as a deity. The Koli also has the custom of either bury or burn down the body of the deceased person.

Sitha Khanda Tribe

Sitha Khanda tribes of Orissa arduously follow the religion of Christianity and also speak in language of the same name

Orissa  state is a holy abode of quite a lot of tribal communities, which are quite ennobled in their culture and tradition. In fact in the state, these Sitha Kandha tribes mainly throng places like Phulbani, Koraput  etc. Huge conglomeration is found in the Udayagiri area of the Ganjam district. The mother tongue of these tribes is Sitha Kandha , which is quite different from other languages that are prevalent here .

It belongs to the Dravidian language family. Some of the anthropologists` even love to refer this language in their alternative names like Kandh, Kondhi , Khond, Khondo, Kanda, Kodu , Kodulu, Kuinga, Kuy etc. Several dialects, namely, Khondi, Gumsai , too are widely spoken by these Sitha Kandha tribal populace.

Most of these Sitha Kandha tribes follow Christianity. In fact all the festivals, rites and customs related to this religion are being feted in proper spirit and enthusiasm. Apart from Christianity, some of the Sitha Kandha tribes too follow the customs and rites of their local religion.

Dharua Tribe

Dharua tribes reside mainly in Malkangiri district, distinguishing in culture and tradition, converse with each other in Dharua language.

Dharua tribe is one of the ancient tribes that are found in Orissa. These Dharua tribes are largely found in the Malkangiri district including the block of Korukonda. These tribes are also seen in several parts of Chattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. Also called Durua tribes, the Dharua tribes are forest tribes.

The Dharua tribes also reside in some adjacent places of Orissa namely Cuttack, Dhenkenal, Koraput, Sundargarh, Mayurbhanj, Sambalpur, Bolangir etc. The Dharua tribes are basically agrarian people but some are also employed in hunting and as field labourers. Like all other tribal people of India, the Dharua tribes have developed their culture and tradition that separate them from the other tribal people of the state. Their language, Dharua language is also known as Parji. This language is said to be of Dravidian language family.

Paroja Tribe

These Paroja tribes have a plethora of `totemistic septs`, which they revere as well as protect them with their life

The state of Orissa  of India is one of the states of Indian Territory, which provides shelter to quite a large number of tribal populace. Paroja is quite significant amongst them. These Paroja tribes are noted for the cultural and social heritage that they have maintained over the years. No external influences have been able to bring about any change in their characteristics.

As per the observation of the eminent anthropologists of India, maximum of these Paroja tribes are concentrated in various regions of the state including Jeypore, Kundali, Nandapur, Jeypore. Umeros Paroja tribes are also found in Koraput district. However, the people also call these paroja in different names like Paraja or Parja. Etymologically, the word has been taken from another word in Sanskrit, namely, Parja which means a subject.

Paroja Tribe There is a popular saying about the origination of these Paroja tribal communities. These Paroja tribes have got their ancestral home in the Baster region, from where they have came down. Nowadays these {Paroja tribes are sharing space with all the other tribes like Gadaba, Paik, Mali. Not only these Paroja tribes live together, they maintain a very cordial relation with these tribes.

What is also interesting is that these Paroja tribes have a belief on several `totemistic septs`. These include Bagh (Tiger), Kachhim (Tortoise), Bokda (Boat) etc. The practice is prevalent where the Paroja tribes are being prohibited from murdering or giving about any kind of harm or even devoured. In fact these Paroja tribal communities follow quite a few rites and rituals thus showing respect to the clan totems.

The cultural exuberance is rightly been depicted in the way these Paroja tribes dress up. The attires of both male and female are colorful. Women folks of these Paroja tribal communities wear beautiful ornaments thereby enhancing their beauty. Nose rings and hairs clips are used by Paroja women. The male Paroja tribes have the habit of wearing earrings.

Jatapu Tribe

Jatapu tribes are agrarian people and most of them converse in Telegu language.

Jatapu tribes are the inhabitants of central India and apart from Orissa, some of these groups are settled in several districts of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. The history of Jatapu tribal people is still not known. The language of this tribal people is called Jatapu but most of the people of this tribal community use Telegu language. Some are also well conversant in Oriya language as well. Even the Jatapu tribes can speak in various Oriya dialects.

Jatapu tribal people are basically agrarian people but some are also engaged as forest labourers, collecting and selling forest products. They grow chilies, peas, beans etc in their field. Their staple food is rice. Some earn their livelihood by selling products of pottery and other artifacts. People of this tribal community prepare baskets, earthen pots, bangles etc for their economic betterment.

The society of the Jatapu tribal community is patrilineal and the women engage themselves in household works. The houses of the tribal community are made of mud and the roofs are thatched. Some of them have possessions of cattle. Marriages are considered as a social custom and marriage in the same clan is strictly prohibited.

The culture of these Jatapu tribes too is based on several elements of dance, music, folklores and social customs and beliefs. Jatapu tribal community is basically the followers of Hindu religion. They worship a number of gods and goddesses. Jakeramma is said to be their native god and sometimes animal sacrifices are also made to conciliate the god. The Jatapu people, especially the women are very fond of ornaments and these ornaments play a major part of their costumes. They do their hair ornamentation with black tassels and also wear bangle, necklaces, bracelets, earrings and nose rings.

Dal Tribe

The Dal tribes of Orissa are fervent followers of Hinduism, following most of the rites and customs of that religion.

Orissa  is a state, which is an abode of numerous tribes that have settled down in every corner of the region. Mainly these Dal tribes are found in several districts of the state including Kalahandi, Bolangir, Sundergarh, Keonjhar. Quite a lot of this Dal tribal populace is found in Koraput, Sambalpur, Puri, Cuttack, Mayurbhanj and in Balasore Districts.

As far as the languages are concerned, these Dal tribes talk in the Oriya language. Variants of this language too are popular amongst the Dal tribes. These Dal tribes are Hindus who diligently follow various rituals and customs related to Hindu religion. Worship of numerous gods and goddesses are revered and all the festivals that are celebrated by these Dal tribes are mostly religious.

Tadvi Tribe

Tadvi tribes are forest tribal community and their culture and tradition are enriching the culture of Odisha.

Tadvi is an important tribe and the literal meaning of this word `Tadvi` connotes `one who taps the palm tree`. This naturally suggests that these Tadvi tribes fall in to the category of forest tribal community. Some of the anthropologists have traced that the tribal groups have descended from the Bhil females and Muslim males.

Apart from Orissa, the Tadvi tribes are also found in different parts of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and some parts of West Central India. The mother tongue of these Tadvi tribes is popularly known as Dhanka, which has a belonging to the Bhil subgroup of the famous Indo- Aryan language family.

House building is quite exquisite, rightly depicting the cultural embellishment of these Tadvi tribes. Generally these Tadvi houses are made up from bamboo with thatched roof. Flooring too is done carefully. In fact now a day, many of these Tadvi tribes spend quite a lot of money in changing thatched roofs of their houses to that of tiles and iron sheets. Also due to the governmental initiatives, these Tadvi tribes go for making houses much larger and also well constructed. Modern facilities that these Tadvi tribes include more windows sheds, open space, individual rooms for cooking and sleeping, separate cattle sheds, and better hygine.

The Tadvi people are basically agrarian people. Barley, groundnuts and cotton are considered as their cash crops and have demands in the whole of the Indian market. These Tadvi tribes grow crops in ample quantities both to meet their basis requirements and also for selling them in the local markets. Some of the Tadvi tribes even work as daily laborers in the fields of the affluent landlords. Moreover, another profession that these Tadvi tribes have taken up includes collecting and then selling these forest resources like honey or gum in the local market. Woodcutting too has also become another source of earning money.

Society of these Tadvi tribes follows the rules and norms of almost all the tribal populous of Indian subcontinent. In a normal household of a Tadvi tribe, there are near about seven people. After marrying the young Tadvi couples walk out and build separate house. Marriage is also an important institution and also has been held in high esteem by all the Tadvi tribal community. In general, these Tadvi tribes have the tendency to follow the customs and norms of the Bhil tribes. What is to be noted that although these Tadvi tribes share a very good relation with other tribes, the Tadvis do not encourage intermarriage between the two different tribal communities.

The physical stature of these Tadvi tribal communities is quite small with average height of Tadvi male being 5`3`. Due to food habits mainly consisting of rice and vegetables, these Tadvi tribes have got stunted growth. Milk is rarely consumed.

Just like any of the tribal communities, festivals and fairs are part and parcel of their Tadvi society. These festivals mainly centered on the harvesting seasons and religious or social events. As far as the religion is concerned, Islamic followers are quite large in number. In fact most of the Tadvi population follows the religion of Islam. There are several Tadvi people who follow Hinduism and also worship several deities. Among the various deities, Maladi and Hinglaj are significant. Also these Tadvi tribes have developed tremendous faith on spirits and also supernatural forces. Black magic is also prevalent. Nowadays, under the influence of modern technology, these Tadvi tribes are undergoing changes.

Bonda Poraja Tribe

Bonda Poraja tribes of Orissa are scheduled tribes and are reckoned as a primitive tribe with their own culture.

Bonda Poraja tribes are the scheduled castes. In the southwestern provinces of Orissa, these Bonda Poraja tribes reside in every nook and corner of the region especially in the rugged and mountainous region of Malkangiri district. This Bonda Poraja tribal community is a primitive tribe of the country with a population of near about five thousand. The Bonda Poraja tribes are also identified by the names of Remo, Bhonda, Bondo. Remo means `people` in the Bonda language. In fact, these Bonda Poraja speak with each other in a language which falls in to Munda group of the broad language family of Austro-Asiatic group.

Though the history of their origin is still not known, but as per some of the anthropologists and scholars, the Bonda Porajas are the descendants of Austro-Asiatic tribes who were the inhabitants of wild Jeypore hills. Though they are one of the most primitive tribes of India, they have kept their way of living life unchanged till date.

These Bonda Poraja tribes have unique style of dressing which emphasized the rich heritage of their culture and ethnicity. The Bonda Poraja tribes are in general `semi-clothed`. Moreover, ornaments play a great role in the attire if the Bonda tribes. Bonda Poraja tribes wear broad silver necklace bands, which also embellish their beauty to a great extent. The people of this tribal community prefer to apply castor oil in their head. Some of the people of this community are adept in creating artworks like many of the tribal women create beautiful warli paintings. The Bonda Poraja tribes are agrarian people and sometimes they are also involved in Podu cultivation. Even the ladies help the men in cultivation.

What is really interesting about these Bonda Poraja tribes is that they have retained their originality with undergoing a little more change in the cultural aspects. The reason is that due to their isolation and known aggression, these Bonda Poraja tribes have been able to conserve their heritage regardless of the forces of a booming population explosion.

Another reason behind drawing the attention of almost all the anthropologists of Indian country is that these Bonda tribes is among few tribes of India who till date follow the `binnimoy protha`, signifying the give-and-take policies. Each and every Sundays, these Bonda Poraja tribes frequent the local markets to carry on these activities. There is a custom prevalent in this tribal community that the bride has to be older than the groom.

The Bondas celebrate different fests and festivals with great merriment. Among these festivals, `Patkhanda Yatra` is worth mentioning because of the importance of this festival in the lives of the tribal community.

Sabar Tribe

Sabar falls in to category of one of the oldest tribes of India, also popular as Kariya to some people.

Kolha tribes of Orissa state are mostly found in the Keonjhar district. Most of these Kolha tribes reside in the Bhuyan hills and in the adjacent region, namely, Nayagarh and Chamakpur. These Kolha tribes converse with each other in various languages like Hindi and Oriya. The Kolha tribes has their own tribal dialect which is used to converse with the people of this community. For them, English has assumed the status of secondary language. The popular belief is that these Kolha tribes have been emigrated from the Keonjhar district from the northeastern parts of Indian subcontinent during the last century.

Just like other tribal communities, Handia, a type of fermented liquor, is a favorite drink of these Kolha tribes. These Kolha tribes take delight in killing animals and birds with the aid of bow and arrow. By nature, these Kolha tribes are quite shy and introvert.

These Kolha tribes have got an orientation towards spiritualism and religion. Mpost of these Kolha tribes abide by all the customs and rituals of Hinduism. Also these Kolha tribes revere `Sajana` tree, mustard oil, paddy and the dog in special awe and devotion. To sustain their livelihood, maximum of these Kolha tribes attend to the rich farmers as `mulias` or field laborers and are in general they got the payment in advance by their masters, who are popularly known as `sahas`.

Unlike many of the tribes of the region, these Kolha are less proficient in the field of academics and education.

Kolha Tribe

Kolha tribes of Orissa have got ardent faith on Hindu religious practices and are scattered in Keonjhar district.

Kolha tribes of Orissa state are mostly found in the Keonjhar district. Most of these Kolha tribes reside in the Bhuyan hills and in the adjacent region, namely, Nayagarh and Chamakpur. These Kolha tribes converse with each other in various languages like Hindi and Oriya. The Kolha tribes has their own tribal dialect which is used to converse with the people of this community. For them, English has assumed the status of secondary language. The popular belief is that these Kolha tribes have been emigrated from the Keonjhar district from the northeastern parts of Indian subcontinent during the last century.

Just like other tribal communities, Handia, a type of fermented liquor, is a favorite drink of these Kolha tribes. These Kolha tribes take delight in killing animals and birds with the aid of bow and arrow. By nature, these Kolha tribes are quite shy and introvert.

These Kolha tribes have got an orientation towards spiritualism and religion. Mpost of these Kolha tribes abide by all the customs and rituals of Hinduism. Also these Kolha tribes revere `Sajana` tree, mustard oil, paddy and the dog in special awe and devotion. To sustain their livelihood, maximum of these Kolha tribes attend to the rich farmers as `mulias` or field laborers and are in general they got the payment in advance by their masters, who are popularly known as `sahas`.

Unlike many of the tribes of the region, these Kolha are less proficient in the field of academics and education.

Parenga Tribe

Parenga tribes practice shifting cultivation maintaining the trends and practices of the tribal population.

Parenga tribe is known as one of the scheduled tribes of Orissa state. Some of these anthropologists even claimed that this Parenga tribe is a sub division of Gabada tribe. These Parenga tribes speak in a tribal language bearing the same name and it belongs to the Austric language family group. Some of the eminent anthropologists even have traced the origin of these Parenga tribal communities. They are believed to belong to the Austric Munda family along with other tribes like Bhumji, Birhor etc.

Parenga tribes practice the age-old practice of shifting cultivation. These Parenga tribes are religious minded, most of their practices change over the time and experiences. The religion of most of the tribal communities residing in Orissa is a blend of animalism, animism, shamanism, nature-worship, anthropomorphism, fetishism, and ancestor worship. Some are believers of black magic, supernatural forces and spell. The reason of worshipping them is to appease the destructive nature of these deities. Festivals and fairs are part and parcel of these Parenga tribal communities.

Apart from celebrating all the main religious festivals of the country, these Parenga festivals have got their own set of rituals and festivals to be feted in great enthusiasm. To fete these festivals, dance and music form an integral part of this Parenga tribe. The dancers dressed up with the cultural costumes in the dreams of drums and also with the singing of tribal songs .The conventional handloom weaving instruments and wall painting techniques also add to the culture and tradition of the Parenga tribal community.

Holva Tribe

Various districts of Orissa including Puri, Kalhandi etc house a number of Holva tribes who are also known as Kotia.

Quite a multitude of tribal communities thrive in every hook and nook of the whole of the Orissa state.

According to the anthropologists who have conducted several research works in the region have drawn certain information regarding the etymology of the word Holva. This word has been taken from `hal`, which signifies ploughing. Some people also identify these Holva tribes as Kotia tribes.

In the state, these Holva tribes are concentrated mainly in several districts like Kalahandi, Koraput, Sundergarh and also several areas of the Puri district. Need less to say, like most of the tribes of the region, these Holva tribes too speak to each other in the Oriya language. Various dialects of this language too are widely spoken by these Holva tribes. Agriculture is their main source of living.

Chenchu Tribe

Chenchu tribe is well known tribes of India and also found in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.

Chenchu tribes occupy a major position in the list of the tribes of India and are scattered in different parts of India especially in Orissa. Chenchu tribes are also known by the names of Chenswar, Choncharu, Chenchwar and Chenchukoolam. Apart from Orissa, these tribes are also found in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.

A myth is popular amongst the Chenchu tribes regarding their origination. Lord Mallikarjuna, a personification of Lord Shiva fell in love with a Chenchu girl called `Chenchu Laxmi` and got married later. They are believed to be the ancestors of the Chenchu tribes of the later period. In ancient scriptures like Puranas, temple records and Chronicles, the mention has been made about these couple.

It is obvious that following the norm of the maximum of Indian tribes of the hilly provinces, these Chenchu tribes too have developed expertise in hunting as well as food gathering. Instances are not rare when one can find a group of Chenchu tribes set on a venture in the dense forest region for gathering food materials or just to hunt wild animals. The common preys are animals like boar and deer.

However, due to the stringent laws of forest conversation, these Chenchu tribes have to remain contented with tiny animals namely lizards, rabbits and wild birds. Bows, arrows, small knife are the usual weapons that these Chenchu tribes always carry with them, especially when they go out for hunting. However, these Chenchu tribes have not taken up the occupation of farming. Moreover, they also collect and sell foods and jungle products like beedi leaf, fruits, honey, tubers, roots, green leaves, gum, tamarind, mohua flower etc. Chenchu meal is quite simple comprising of gruel prepared from jowar or maize, and also boiled or cooked jungle tubers. They blend tamarind fruit with tamarind ash. Moreover the people of these tribal communities have learnt various small arts and craftsmanship.

Interestingly, these ably built Chenchu tribes have kept intact all their traditional customs and remained unaffected of the modern influences. Although few of the children of the Chenchu tribes have been sent to schools, these Chenchu tribes are yet to find place in the `mainstream` educational system.

In the midst of the nature`s bounty, the village of the Chenchu reflects the culture and traditional exuberance. Penta is the name of a village of a Chenchu tribe. Each penta comprises of quite a few huts that are separated from each and other and are then clubbed together on the basis of the structure of kinship. For example, the close relatives reside in close proximity, while the distant relatives stay far away.

The Chenchu tribes of India speak in a language of the same name and this language belongs to the Dravidian language group. This language is also known by the name of Chenchwar, Chenswar, Chenchucoolam, or Choncharu. Apart from this language they also converse in Telugu.

The physical characteristics of the Chenchus include flat nose, short height, long head with well defined eyebrows. Their faces are broad and hair is curly. Generally the elderly person the Chenchu village has been bestowed upon the power of maintaining the social harmony and integrity of the people of the village or any individual family. He is called `Peddamanishi`.

Being a huge exogamous group, these Chenchu tribes are sub divided into several clans. Just like a traditional Hindu, these Chenchu tribes too follow the system of gotras, which constitutes the bloodline and descent of member of clan. There are twenty-six gotras found among the Chenchu tribes, each clan being identified by their gotra name. Marriage forms a significant institution in the Chenchu tribal society. It is called `Pelli`, and usually held through negotiation of elders or also as per the choice of the couples.

The way the marriage ceremony is being held is also very unique following all the conventional rites in the presence of village elders and people. However the Chenchu tribes are not permitted to marry any one within the gotra or clan but they can marry members from other Chenchu clans. After marriage, the Chenchu wife becomes a part of the gotra of her husband. Only on special cases like infidelity, divorce is being granted to a Chenchu tribe. Widow re-marriages are also prevalent amongst the Chenchu tribes.

Apart from these, Chenchu tribes have got a treasure house of festivals and societal rituals, thus highlighting various aspects of their culture amongst various deities that are being worshipped, Lord Eshwara, better known as `Lingamayya`, and Shakti or `Maisamma` or `Peddamma` are significant. Worship of these deities is usually held in the months of July and Augusts or `Sravan`. Bhagaban taru, Garelamai Sama, Potsamma, Gangamma are their deities whom they revere. They also worship Hindu gods like Lord Hanuman.

Due to the conservative nature of these Chenchu tribes, most of these Chenchu tribes are yet to adapt to the modern trends of the modern day world. Still today these Chenchu tribes have retained their original life style and habitation.
 

Bhunjia Tribe

Bhunjia Tribes, dwelling in Orissa, are god fearing and are known to be a sub-division of Halbas of Bastar. The Bhunjia Tribe has two branches namely Chaukhutia and Chinda.

Bhunjia tribes are reckoned as an ancient tribe of Orissa. It is a small Dravidian tribal group basically found in Nuapada District which is said to be the abode of the Bhunjia tribal community. The word Bhunjia means people who have originated from the earth. This tribal group is considered as a sub division of Halbas of Bastar. As per the ancient history, they ran away from Bastar as a result of a clash with the Dhakars. Apart from this, the Bhunjia tribal communities are also found in several districts like Kalahandi District. Since the topography of the region is quite rugged with hills, mountains and also dense forest areas, these Bhunjia tribes have settled down in scattered manner in their villages.

Just like any other tribes of the mountainous region of India, these Bhunjia tribes too have adapted the profession of shifting cultivation. Seeing the degradation of the landscapes due to rampant cultivation, in the present day, many of these Bhunjia tribes sustain their living by gathering and also selling various non timber forest products in the local markets. Chaukhutia Bhunjia and Chinda Bhunjia are the two ramifications of Bhunjia group of people. The Chinda Bhunjia people are the inhabitants of plain area while the Chaukhutia Bhunjias reside in the hilly areas of Sunabeda plateau. People of this Bhunjia group are the descendants of the Dravidian group of people. The people of this tribal group converse in Halbi language which is an amalgamation of Marathi language, Chhattisgarhi language and Oriya language.

The costumes of the Bhunjia tribal people are very colourful and attractive. The men of this tribal group generally wear a piece of cloth and shirts. Sarees and different jewelleries made of glass; coils, beads, brass, silver and aluminium adorn the women of this community. Ornaments like bangles, ear-rings, necklace, anklets etc are some of the jewelleries are prevalent among the women. Another most attractive aspect is the way they make up their hair in different patterns. Bhunjia tribes are more conservative and traditional. Moreover, it has also been said that the Bhunjia tribal community has a kinship with the Gond tribe. Several myths suggest a close relationship between Gonds and Bhunjias. Even because of the close affinity with the Gonds, the Bhunjias had started worshipping the gods and goddesses of the Gond people.

The Bhunjia society is patriarchal and the culture follows the norms and practices of the society, just like any other tribal communities of Indian subcontinent do. For regulating the marriage, the Bhunjia tribes have a number of exogamous units or clans. The Bhunjia people have marital relationship with the Gond people. Marriages also take place among the cross cousins of the community. The people of this community are divided into two groups namely Markam and Netam. Marriages in these groups are not allowed. Generally, the Bhunjia tribal people duly follow the structure of nuclear family with a monogamous form of marriage. Special marriage rites and rituals are followed. In fact the kitchen shed of these Bhunjia tribes is believed to be quite consecrated and the entry of married daughters into the kitchen is firmly prohibited.

The pious nature of these Bhunjia tribes has a plethora of gods and goddesses whom they worship them for the sake of well-being and prosperity of the society. Cure and prevention from various diseases, seeking good harvesting etc. are also the reasons for which these deities are worshipped. In the month of Chaitra, the tribal people offer a goat and a coconut to their deity of cholera and smallpox. Sunadei is their principal deity and the priest, better known as `Pujari`, carries on the religious rites. Festivals too are a part and parcel of these Bhunjia tribes. There is a legend popular amongst the Bhunjia tribes. Except Holi, these tribes celebrate almost all the other Indian festivals with enthusiasm. It is said that the Bhunjia tribes have excelled in the art of dreadful magic and spells.

These Bhunjia tribes follow the traditional system with the formation of village council as the key unit of village administration. All the aged people of the Bhunjia village constitutes of the basic unit, while in the top hierarchy, the inter-village council exits. An important aspect of Bhunjia tribal society is the status of their women. In fact, the Bhunjia tribes have a very stringent set of rules in order to govern a woman`s life. It is said that women are not permitted to consume food from outside and there is no such limitation for the male folks. Also, only the women folks of the Bhunjia tribes are not allowed to wear slippers they are not supposed to step on the sacred earth where the deity, Sunadei, lives. However, no such rule is applicable for the Bhunjia male.

Juang Tribe

Juang tribes of Orissa are divided into two totemic clans namely Bandhu clans and Kutumba.

The concentration of the Juang tribes is in several places including Banspal, Telkoi and Harichandanpur blocks. For better living, the Juang villages have been established mostly on the plains. They are also located in ample number in Keonjhar and some are scattered in Dhenkanal. However, most of the Bathudi tribes have adapted to the modern lifestyle of people and immigrated to other places of the region.

Juang people are basically a jungle tribe and are divided into two broad sections, namely, Thaniya and the Bhagudiya. Thaniya comprises of those of the Juang tribes who have settled down in the original homelands, while the Bhagudiya are those Juang people who have migrated to some other places.

The origin of these Juang tribes has a history behind it. The Juang tribes believe that in primitive times, they originated from earth on the Gonasika hills. In these hills the river Baitarani has its source and it is also not far from the Honda village in Keonjhar. The etymological significance of the word Juang emphasizes the fact of their origination man from the same place. Juang are also called by the name of `Patuas` meaning `leaf-wearers`. According to some people, the Juang tribes can also be referred to be patra-savaras, where the patra signifies leaf. By citing this reference, these Juang tribes are thought to belong to that subdivision of the Savara tribe whose tribal members dress themselves in leaves. The physical appearance of the Juang people is noticeable for their broad noses, flat faces, large mouths, wide nostrils and thick lips. Their complexion is reddish brown.

The languages of these Juang tribes belong to the Munda group of people. They have got their individual dialect, which has been referred as Kolarian by the eminent scholar Col. Dalten. Due to its influence of several Oriya speaking people, these Juang tribes have incorporated several Oriya words. Recently, the Juang people have become well conversant in Oriya language.

Societal structure of the Juang tribes is formed in such a way so that these can retain their originality and ethnicity. Just like any other tribal people, the village of the Juang tribe too is the biggest `corporate` group with individual province under their jurisdiction. Within the defined land boundaries these Juang tribes have their land practicing both `settled` and shifting cultivation. Primarily, the Juangs were gatherers and hunters later they also developed cultivation. Apart from adapting to the common profession of cultivation, some of the Juang tribes also have taken up weaving, tailoring etc. Some of the Juang tribes too exploit the forest resources and thus sustain their livelihood. Apart from these, they were also adept in making baskets and they used to exchange foods and money from it.

Dormitory plays a significant role in the Juang society. It is also called Majang where their conventional dance takes place and the village Panchayat also used to be organized. It is also regarded as a guesthouse for all the visitants to the Juang village. The Pradhan is the head of the village and the village is better known as Nagam or Boita or Dehuri. The village priest also is part of the conventional village Panchayat of the Juang tribe. The Juang tribes follow the patrilineal norms. In this Juang tribal society Totemistic clans too are also found, which are carved up into two distinguishable groups known as Bandhu clans and Kutumba clans”. What is to be noted that the totem is not be damaged or wronged by its members. The clans are mainly exogamous and thus the marriage within the same clan is permissible.

Marriage is an important institution of the Juang tribes. Monogamy is usually prevalent and also polygamy is not utterly prohibited. `Levirate and sororate` marriages are prevalent amongst the Juang tribes. There is a peculiar ritual common amongst the Juang tribes. A Juang husband generally worships the `Sajana`, the drumstick tree, if his wife turns out barren and also provides her a paste made of `Sajana` flowers and seeds for consumption. Sometimes he also ties a sevenfold cotton thread having seven knots around the neck of his wife, thinking it to be a type of ‘talisman’ which will help her to conceive. After conception also certain more rituals are followed. The Juang tribes do not permit their pregnant women to go to `Devisthan`. There are certain things that she should be refrained from, like tying up of any thing, weaving mat and also plastering house with mud.

The Juang tribes fete quite a number of festivals, which enrich their religious exuberance. Especially numerous religious festivals are held in commemoration of worship of several deities in honor of their gods and goddesses. For these Juang tribes, Dharam Devta and Basumata are the principal gods. ‘Gramashree’ is the village deity .They also believe in spirits and ghosts. Apart from worshipping local tribal deities, they also worship Hindu gods and goddesses. They offer fowls and animals to their gods and goddesses.

Few harvesting festivals too are popular amongst the Juang tribes, including Pusha Purnima, Amba Nuakhia, Pirha Puja, Pirha Puja, Akhaya Trutiya, Asarhi, Gahma etc. Dancing and singing mark all these occasions. They celebrate these occasions with dances and songs. A kind of drum called changu is accompanied during dancing performance.

Bhumia Tribe

Bhumia tribes, known for their courage and valour and are known for their societal system.

Bhumia tribes of Orissa have a rich cultural heritage and are also considered as the most heroic tribal communities. The Bhumia tribes are found in every corner of districts like Koraput, Phulbani, Gangam and Sundergarh. These Bhumia tribes top the list just after the koya tribes in respect of the largest population of tribes of Orissa. Thus for obvious reasons, these Bhumia tribes have drawn the attention of most of the anthropologists of Indian subcontinent.

For better administration and control, these Bhumia tribes have chosen a person as the head of the village. He is popularly known as `Mukhia`. However for every twenty villages, one `Bhattanaik` is being selected. The name of these Bhumia tribes had been written down in the pages of history for their ardent participation and remarkable contribution to the freedom struggle that took place in the district. Laxman Naik, a great freedom fighter, belonged to this Bhumia tribal community.

In the Bhumia society, the institution of marriage has always been held in high esteem. This Bhumia system has got a unique system of marriage. The usual practice prevalent amongst these tribes is the elopement of groom with his prospective bride. Fairs and festivals too are integral part of the whole of the Bhumia society, thus enriching their culture and tradition. Balijatra is their most important festival of these Bhumia tribes and is celebrated with great pompousness. 

Bhuiya Tribals

Bhuiya Tribal

Dhotada Tribals

Dhotada Tribal

Bhottada Tribals

Bhottada Tribal

Bathudi Tribals

Bathudi Tribal

Baiga Tribals

Baiga Tribal

Bagata Tribals

Bagata Tribal

Tha Bagata tribes are regarded as one of the natives of Odisha and they are treated as Sheduled Tribes of India. Bagata Tribes are found in diffrent parts of Odisha and native States. This tribal community is also known by the names of Bagatha, Bhakta, Bagat, Bagodi, or Bogad.

Bagata tribes in their day to day lives they do farming in order to sustain their livlihood. They also indulge them selves in Festivals, Dance as well as Music. A special dance is performed by this Bagata Tribal is Dhisma Dance. They used to participate in a huge numbers. They enjoy a lot while performing this dance. It is a dance from where Bagata tribes of all ages starting from eight ot eighty. They participate it quite energtically. You can see in the months of March to April, these Bagata tibes dance on the occasions of weddings and also at joyful social ceremonies.

Dhimsa dance has a unique feature that it spread the spirit of friendship and alliance between the people residing in the nearby villages. As this is a traditional form of dance of Bagata tribes, the females used to dress up in distinctive tribal clothes and they also wear beautiful ornaments. All the dancers of Bagata dance in the rhythm of Mori, Kiridi, Tudumu, Dappu and Jodukommulu.

During the festive season, the dancers of Bagata dancers move of one village to another on a trip in order to participate in the dance and also to participate in the community feast. The dance forms of Bagata Tribes are popularly know as 'Sankidi Kelebar'. Most of the Bagata tribes are Hindus and they also worship Hindu gods and goddess along with their tribal deities.

In Bagata tribes, the people use to conversate with each other in the corrupted form of Oriya Language though their main language is Telugu. Just like any other tribal communities of Orissa, the structure of the social hierarchy also is present among the Bagata tribes.