Odisha, a state known for having diversity and being a major tourist destination. There are 62 indigenous Tribes of Odisha, out of the 645 Scheduled Tribes enlisted in India.
These ancient tribal communities are found far from the plains, untouched and unchanged by the civilization for centuries. They are mostly found by the flowing rivers near the forests or on the hills. Being so far from the plain, the rich ethnic diversity has a great influence on the state. While some tribes share similar characteristics, each tribe differs from each other. In various terms, like religious beliefs, lifestyle, cultural traditions, language, folklore, appearance, etc.
The major source of livelihood for these tribes are fishing, farming, agriculture, hunting and gathering. The tribes have also adopted to the newest agricultural practices. They are also do cattle breeding. Also, with these changing times some made their way to the industrial belts of the state and mining.
Some local tribes have also involved themselves into crafts and artisan skills. They like basket weaving, tiil making, textile, metal craft, etc.. The local markets also known as the haat in the local tongue. This is the best place to see the various tribes together. Here they meet and offer each other to buy provisions, livestock or sell their weaves. Despite of the challenging life, poverty and the struggle for survival, the communities still retain their love for music, dance and their heritage.
The largest concentration of tribal people in the subcontinent is in the southwestern part of Odisha. These tribes are mainly found in the districts namely Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Jajpur, Balasore, Bhadrak, Deogarh, Dhenkanal, Angul, Jharsuguda, Sundargarh, Kandhamal and more.
Major tribes found in the state
KONDH – Largest Tribes of Odisha
They are one of the largest tribal communities in the state. The Kondhs have an innate knowledge about forests, mountains, trees and plants including rare medicinal herbs. The women of this tribe wear strips of white cloth and can be distinguished by the facial tattoos, distinctive jewellery, multiple earrings and a trio of nose rings. The men of the tribes are quite fashionable, sporting hair buns, hair clips and two nose rings, and they carry hunting tools around with them.
BHUMIAS
One of the most rich in tradition and culture, Bhumias tribe is the most celebrated in the state. They have some unique marriage trends and distinctive rituals, which makes them a must visit trbe in the place.
ORAONS
Masters in tea plantation, Oraons are considered to be the most progressive and forward moving group amongst others. They use modern science and technology, HYV seeds, pesticides and fertilisers etc. They have quite a well established settlement with proper roads and transports connected to.
BONDA
Bonda Tribes of Odisha Found on the remote hilly area of the Malkangiri district knows as the Bonda hills, these fierce and colourful Bondas are also referred to as Remo in their language. The Bondas mostly stand out amongst the other tribal communities for their typical attire. Beaded long strands on their bodies and heads, necklaces that hang down all the way to their thighs. Their bodies are wrapped in a blue cape and hips are covered by thick woven sash. Men of the Bonda tribe are usually short and carry arms with themselves.
SANTHALS – Beautiful Tribes of Odisha
The most fun-loving tribe amongst the others, Santhals are said to be great fighters during the British regime in India. They possess a keen eye for beauty. They hand-painted homes built by themselves, surrounding with beautiful artwork. Santhal women use the gold toned silk ,for weaving, that is produced from the silk cocoons they collect from the asan trees.
GOND
This warrior tribe called the Gonds, who ones spread fear and havoc in the past, are found across the hills of Balangir, Koraput, Sundargarh, Sambhalpur and Kalahandi. They are the largest tribe not only of India but all of South Asia.
PARAJAS
The Parajas have a great passion for music and dance. They worship numerous gods and goddesses. Found in the hills and forests, they are divided into two groups- one follows the Hindu traditions of not consuming beef and buffalo meat, whereas the other one does not have any such omissions. They do not marry off within the same clan.
GADAVA
One of the earliest settlers, with their origin dating back to the Ramayana era, Gadabas speak Gutub and call themselves Ghutan. The word ‘gabada’ literally means ‘person who bears a load on their shoulders’, and as to being true to their name Gadaba women wear twin metal choker, each weighing up to 700 grams which are only to be removed after they die. They wear colourful striped two piece dress which is often woven by them and several other tribal ornaments.
KOYAS
These tribes of Odisha are rich in ancient tradition, culture, art and customs. There are approxmately 147,000 Koya tribes living in Odisha. Koyas expertise in making bamboo furniture. They also do farming and cultivate Jowar, Ragi, Bajra. Koya tribes are also found in Andhra Pradesh and Chattisgarh.
SAUORA – Oldest Tribes of Odisha
They are one of the oldest tribes in the country with having their mentions in Hindu epics like Mahabharata and Ramayana. The men of the Sauora tribe wear a lanjia which is the loin cloth, that hangs behind them like a tail. They are expert climbers and dwellers, master artists. The walls in the homes are decorated with murals that depict the daily scenes and social and religious events.
