Adivasis of Orissa

The Adivasi

About 62 distinct tribal groups of indigenous people once inhabited in Orissa. Officially known as "tribals" - but more accurately known as "Adivasis" - they constitute more than one-quarter of the state's population. Many adivasis have adapted to the mainstream Indian lifestyle, but some distinct groups remain.

The Kondh have a population of about one million and are based in the south-west, around Koraput, and near Sambalpur. The Santal, with a population over 500,000, live around Baripada and Khiching in the far north. The Saura, with a population over 300,000, live near Bolangir in the west. The Bonda, known as 'the Naked People', have a population of about 5000 and live in the hills near Koraput.

The Kisan Tribe

The Kisans are the main residents of Sundergarh, Sambalpur and Kenjhar. They speak the Kisan dialect along with Oriya, Hindi and English. They are farmers and food gatherers and they are famous for their Dance and Music. Kutra Village in Sundergarh District is a major Tribal Village and the main residents of this village are the Toppo's.

All the tribal groupings have their own fascinating customs, rituals and beliefs and have become something of a tourist attraction. Although there is always some controversy regarding the advisability and morality of visiting visiting Adivasi areas, tourism does bring much-needed funds to these poor regions. It is important, however, to visit these areas on an organized tour because:

1) Some areas require permits, which can only be obtained by a recognized travel agency.

2) Some tribal areas are hard to find, and often not accessible by public transport.

3) Adivasis often speak little Hindi and Oriya, and usually no English.

4) Some tribes can get angry, even violent, if foreigners visit their villages uninvited and without official permission.