Kharia Tribe

Origin and Language

• The name Kharia is believed to have originated from “Kharkhadiya” (palanquin bearers).
• This tribe belongs to the Proto-Australoid racial group.
• The Kharia language is also called Kharia, which belongs to the Mundari (Austro-Asiatic) language group.
• Main regions in Jharkhand: Gumla, Simdega, Ranchi, Latehar, Singhbhum, Hazaribagh.
• Outside Jharkhand, they are also found in Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Assam, and Bengal.

Classification within the Tribe

• The Kharia tribe is divided into three sub-groups:
  • Pahari Kharia (most backward)
  • Dhelki (Belki) Kharia
  • Dudh Kharia (economically most prosperous)
• Order of economic prosperity:
  Dudh Kharia > Dhelki Kharia > Pahari Kharia
• Inter-marriage between these three groups is not allowed.

Marriage Customs

• Bride price is known as “Gining Teh”.
• The Kharia family system is patriarchal and patrilineal.
• Polygamy is practiced.
• The most common form of marriage is “Ololdai” (traditional marriage).
• Other forms include:
  • Uphara Udhari (loan marriage)
  • Sah Palayan (elopement)
  • Dhuku Cholki (live-in arrangement)
  • Anahut (spontaneous)
  • Tapa or Tanila (kidnap marriage)
  • Rajee Khushi (mutual consent)
  • Prem Vivah (love marriage)
  • Engagement marriage
  • Widow/Widower marriage

Social Structure

• Youth dormitory: Gitio
• Village headman: Mahato
• Assistant to village head: Negi
• Messenger: Dhira
• Tribal council: Jatiya Panchayat
• Head of tribal council: Gitio

Economic System

• The Kharia people sustain themselves mainly through agriculture and hunting.
• Pahari Kharia still lead a primitive lifestyle.
• Main food: Rice
• The “Fagu festival” reflects their economic status. (Frequently asked in exams)

Religious Beliefs

• Main deity: Bela Bhagwan / Thakur, symbolizing the Sun.
• Other gods/goddesses include:
  • Paradubo
  • Boram
  • Pahad Devta (Mountain God)
  • Van Devta (Forest God)
  • Sarna Devi
  • Gumi
• In their language, God is referred to as Giring Beri or Dharmaraja.
• The religious head is known as:
  • Pahan or Kalo (for Dhelki and Dudh Kharia)
  • Dihuri (for Pahari Kharia)
• High importance is given to religion and magic.
• Major festivals:
  • Bandei (celebrated on Kartik Purnima)
  • Karma
  • Kadleta
  • Bangari
  • Joddem (new grain festival)
  • Jimtang (cattle shed worship)
  • Gidid, Ponomosor, Bhanda, Doro Boo, Pitru Puja
  • Fagu Shikar: includes the worship of Pat and Yoram and animal sacrifice at Sarna

Lohra / Lohara Tribe

Origin and Language

• They belong to the Proto-Australoid racial stock.
• Believed to be descendants of the Asur tribe.
• Regions in Jharkhand: Ranchi, Gumla, Simdega, East & West Singhbhum, Seraikela-Kharsawan, Palamu, Santhal Pargana.
• Their language is Sadani.

Social Structure

• Patriarchal and patrilineal society
• Have various gotras (clans) like Son, Sath, Tutli, Tiko, Dhan, Magahiya.

Occupation and Economy

• Their main profession is blacksmithing, especially making agricultural tools.

Religion and Festivals

• Major deities: Singbonga and Dharti Mai (Mother Earth)
• Main festivals: Vishwakarma Puja, Sohrai, Phagua

Bhumij Tribe

Origin and Language

• Found mostly in Hazaribagh, Ranchi, and Dhanbad districts of Jharkhand.
• Belong to Proto-Australoid race.
• Known as “Sardar of Dhanbad” and Chuhar / Chuad during the Mughal era due to their jungle-based lifestyle.
• Their language is Mundari, with influences from Bengali and Sadani.

Social Structure

• Patriarchal society.
• Have four main gotras:
  • Patti (leaf)
  • Joyela (bird)
  • Gulgu (fish)
  • Hembrom (almond)
• Intra-gotra marriage is prohibited.

Marriage Practices

• Organized marriage is most common.
• Other types: abduction marriage, Golat marriage, service marriage, Rajee Khushi marriage.
• Divorce is practiced—breaking a leaf into pieces by the husband symbolizes divorce.

Panchayat System

• The village council head is called Pradhan.

Economic System

• The main occupation is agriculture, and they are considered efficient cultivators.

Religion and Rituals

• Chief deities: Gram Thakur and Gorai Thakur
• The religious head is called “Laya”.
• Shraddha rituals are referred to as “Kamaavat”.
• Main festivals: Dhula Puja, Chait Puja, Kali Puja, Gorai Thakur Puja, Gram Thakur Puja, Karam Puja

Karmali Tribe

Social & Cultural Structure

• Karmali is a tribe of the Sadan community in Jharkhand.
• They belong to the Proto-Australoid racial group.
• Their mother tongue is Khortha, but they use Karmali language (a part of the Austro-Asiatic family) for communication.
• Primary residence: Hazaribagh, Chatra, Koderma, Giridih, Ranchi, Singhbhum, and Santhal Pargana.
• Their kinship system resembles that of Hindu society.
• The tribe is divided into seven gotras:
  • Kachhuar – Kalua
  • Kaithwar – A tree
  • Sandrawar – Ox
  • Khalkhohar – Sal tree
  • Karhar – A tree
  • Tirki – Rat
  • Sona – A substance

Economic Structure

• The tribe is known as a craftsman or artisan community.
• Their traditional occupation is iron smelting and tool-making.
• They are highly skilled in weapon-making. 🛠️ (Exam relevant)

Religious System

• Singbonga is their principal deity.
• Priests are called Pahan or Nawa.
• The tribe also has a healer known as Ojha, and their sacred place is called Deukri.
• They consider the Damodar River as sacred.
• Main festivals: Tusu Parab (also called Meetha Parab or Barka Parab), Sarhul, Karma, Sohrai, Navakhani.
• Marriage types: Golaṭ marriage, exchange marriage, consensual marriage, Duku marriage.
• The bride price is referred to as PON or Hadua.
• Head of village panchayat is called Malik.

Mahli Tribe

Social & Cultural Structure

• Belongs to the Proto-Australoid racial group.
• Main regions: Singhbhum, Ranchi, Gumla, Simdega, Lohardaga, Hazaribagh, Bokaro, Dhanbad, Santhal Pargana.
• Kinship system is similar to Hindu society, and society is patriarchal.
• There are 16 gotras. Some examples:
  • Kerketa – Bird
  • Tirki – Ox
  • Murumal / Mari – Nilgai
  • Towar – Bird
  • Dhalki – Wild Boar
  • Kathargachh – Jackfruit tree
  • Charbhangia – A tree

Sub-tribes (as per Risley)

• Bansphod Mahli – Bamboo splitters (also practiced by Turi tribe)
• Patar Mahli – Agricultural workers (found in Tamar region)
• Tanti Mahli – Palanquin bearers
• Sulanki Mahli – Engaged in farming and labor
• Mahli Munda – Also involved in agricultural labor

Economic Structure

• A craftsman tribe skilled in bamboo craft. (Exam relevant)
• Known for making bamboo baskets and drums.
• They are considered simple artisan craftsmen.

Religious System

• Main deity: Surji Devi.
• Other deities: Bar Pahari, Mansa Devi.
• Ancestor worship is done in the form of Goadam Saki or Budha-Budhi festival.
• Special worship in the Silli area is called Uttar Puja.
• Marriage is within totemic clans.
• Child marriage is common.
• Bride price is called Pon Duka.
• Tribal council is known as Parganait. (Important exam point)

Baiga Tribe

Social & Cultural Structure

• An underprivileged tribe of Jharkhand. 🧍‍♂️ (Exam point)
• Part of the Proto-Australoid racial group.
• Primarily found in Palamu, Ranchi, Hazaribagh, and Singhbhum.
• Customs and traditions are similar to the Kharwar tribe.
• Practice joint family system.
• Village panchayat chief is called Mukaddam. (Important)

Economic Structure

• Known for their skills in herbal medicine and occult practices. (Exam point)
• Also engage in food collection and labor.
• Excellent knowledge of trees and plants.

Cultural and Religious Practices

• Major festivals: Chareta (first festival of the year; celebrated with a child feast), Rasanawa (celebrated once in 9 years), Sarhul, Dussehra, Diwali, Holi.
• Main deity: Bada Dev, believed to reside in Sal trees.
• Tiger is considered sacred.
• Dance and healing traditions:
  • Major dance: Karma.
  • Others: Jharput, Vimla.
  • Males practice Dasan or Mela healing.
  • Females also perform healing rituals.

Khond Tribe

Social & Cultural Structure

• A minority tribe of Jharkhand.
• Found in Santhal Pargana, northern and southern Chotanagpur, Palamu, and Kolhan divisions.
• Their language is Kondhi.
• The head of the village unit is called Gautiya.
• Garland-exchange (Varmala) is a key marriage custom.

Economic Structure

• Engage mainly in agriculture and manual labor.
• Practice shifting cultivation, which is locally called Podcha.

Religious System

• Main deity: Sun, worshipped as Belnapun.
• Major festivals: Sarhul, Sohrai, Karma, Dussehra, Diwali, Ramnavami, Nabanand.
  • Nabanand festival is celebrated by cooking newly harvested rice.
• Notably, the tribe has a ritual of human sacrifice, historically known as Mariyah. (Important for exams)

Lesser-Known Tribes of Jharkhand: Culture, Economy, Religion & Social Systems

Jharkhand, rich in tribal heritage, is home to numerous tribal communities, each with distinct traditions, beliefs, and lifestyles. While tribes like the Santhal, Munda, and Oraon are widely recognized, many minor tribes also play a significant role in shaping the cultural mosaic of the state. Here’s an in-depth look into some of these lesser-known tribal communities, their culture, economic life, religious beliefs, and social systems.

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1. Bathudi Tribe

A minority tribe in Jharkhand that does not identify itself as a Scheduled Tribe (ST).

• Self-Identification: They call themselves Bahutuli or Bahubali, meaning “those who weigh with arms” — indicating a Kshatriya lineage.
• Ancestry: Considered ancestors of the Bhuiya tribe.
• Geographical Location: Primarily inhabit Singhbhum and Dhalbhum hill regions.
• Family & Social Structure:
  • Patriarchal system.
  • Kinship structure is similar to Hindu society.
  • The tribe has five gotras (clans).
• Marriage System: The most popular form is “arranged marriage”.
• Village Administration: The village head is called a Pradhan.
• Cultural Aspects:
  • Highly enthusiastic about dance and music.
  • Popular musical instruments include Kahangu, Banshi, Jhal, and Mandar.
• Festivals Celebrated:
  • Ashadhi Puja, Sheetala Puja, Vandana Puja, Dhuliya Puja, Sarol Puja, Ras Purnima, Makar Sankranti.
• Livelihood:
  • Primarily agriculture, collection of forest products, and manual labor.
• Religion:
  • Worship Gram Devta (village deity).
  • The village priest is known as a Dihuri.

2. Kisan Tribe

🔹 A tribe under the Sadan community, also known as Nageshar or Nageshia.

• Lineage: Trace their origin to the Naga dynasty.
  • Dalton referred to them as descendants of the Pandavas.
• Language: Speak Mundari (Austroasiatic family).
• Geographical Distribution: Found in Palamu, Latehar, Garhwa, Lohardaga, Gumla, and Simdega.
• Marriage Classification:
  • Two types: Sinduriya (marriage via vermilion) and Teliya (marriage with oil ritual).
  • Practice of trial marriage is also present.
• Bride Price: Known as “Dali”.
• Festivals Celebrated:
  • Sohrai, Sarhul, Karma, Nawakhani, Jitiya, Phagun, Diwali.
• Livelihood:
  • Mainly farming and woodcutting.
• Religion:
  • Chief deity is Singbonga.
  • Religious head is called a Baiga.

3. Banjara Tribe

A nomadic and minority tribe, given ST status in 1956.

• Lifestyle:
  • Nomadic, wander in small groups.
  • Do not have permanent settlements.
• Language: Speak Lambadi.
• Region of Concentration: Mostly found in Santhal Pargana.
• Social Structure:
  • Patriarchal and nuclear families.
  • Four sub-groups: Chauhan, Pawar, Rathore, Urva.
• Common Title: Use of “Rai” is frequent.
• Marriage System:
  • Widow marriage is known as Niyog.
  • Bride price is called Harji.
  • Rituals include pre-marriage engagement.
• Cultural Traditions:
  • Strong presence of folk tales like Alha-Udal; they are revered as brave warriors.
  • Songs often mention Prithviraj Chauhan.
  • Popular folk dance: Dand-Khelna.
• Occupational Division:
  • Divided into three categories including
    • Gulguliya (beggar class)
    • Kanjar (criminal group)
• Skills:
  • Renowned for knowledge of herbs and medicinal plants.
  • Many engage in music-related professions.
• Religion:
  • Main deity is Banjari Devi.

4. Bijhiya Tribe

A minority tribe that identifies itself as native of the Vindhya region.

• Geographical Presence: Mainly found in Ranchi and Simdega districts.
• Self-Identification:
  • Claim to be Rajputs, and often use “Singh” as surname.
• Dietary Rules:
  • Do not eat food cooked by non-Brahmins or non-Rajputs.
• Language: Speak Sadani.
• Gotras: Divided into seven gotras including Kutum Dal, Sahul, etc.
• Marriage Customs:
  • Prohibition on same-gotra marriages.
  • Popular forms:
    • Gulaichi marriage
    • Buku marriage
    • Sagai Santha marriage
  • Bride price is called Dali Katari.
  • Divorce is known as “Chhora-Chhori”.
• Youth Institution: No Yuvagriha (youth dormitory).
• Drinking Habits: Consumption of Hadia (rice beer) is forbidden.
• Festivals Celebrated:
  • Sarhul, Karma, Sohrai, Jagannath Puja.
• Occupation: Agriculture is their mainstay.
• Religion:
  • Chief deity is Vindhyavasini Devi.
  • Also worship Charvi Devi.
  • Tulsi plant is considered sacred.
  • Village goddess is Gramshri.
  • Priest is known as Baiga.

5. Gond Tribe

🔹 India’s second-largest tribal community by population.

• Origin: Native to Madhya Pradesh and Gondwana region.
• Presence in Jharkhand: Mostly found in Gumla, Simdega, Ranchi, Palamu, and Kolhan.
• Anthropological Group: Belong to the Proto-Australoid group.
• Language: Speak Gondi, but also use Sadri-Nagpuri in daily conversation.
• Sub-divisions:
  • Rajgond – aristocratic class
  • Dhur Gond – general class
  • Kamiya – agricultural laborers
• Family Structure:
  • Extended family known as “Bhai Band”.
  • Wider kinship network is “Bhai Biradari”.
• Social Structure:
  • Patriarchal and patrilineal.
• Youth Institution:
  • Known as Godal Ghotul — a youth dormitory (very important cultural practice).

Gond Tribe

• Primary Occupation: Agriculture.
• Shifting Cultivation: Known as Diapa or Bewar.
• Main Deities:
  • Thakur Deg (also called Budha Dev) – Symbol of the Sun.
  • Thakur Dei – Symbol of the Earth.
• Clan Worship: Each clan worships a deity called Parasapan.
• Priest: Called Baiga.
• Assistant Priest: Known as Mati.
• Burial Site: Known as Masna.
• Ethnic Origin: Belongs to the Proto-Australoid group.
• Migration Route: Entered Jharkhand via Rohtas to Palamu region.
• Language: Sadani.
• Social Structure:
  • Patriarchal and patrilineal.
  • Divided into two subgroups: Barah Hazari and Terah Hazari. Barah Hazari consider themselves superior.
  • Seven Gotras (Pari): Chhota Mauar, Bada Mauar, Chhota Kunwar, Bada Kunwar, Sonhait, etc.
  • Surname: ‘Singh’ is commonly used.
• Marriage Customs:
  • Dhola Vivah: Bride is brought to the groom’s house (seen among the poor).
  • Chadha Vivah: Groom visits bride’s house with the wedding party.
• Special Terms:
  • Maternity Room: Saurighar.
  • Bride Price: Dasturi.
  • Village: Called Deeh.
• Festivals: Sohrai, Kali Puja, Chhath, Holi, etc.

Exam Highlight: The term Baiga for the priest and Dasturi for bride price have been repeatedly asked in exams.

2. Cheek Badaik Tribe

• Primary Occupation: Traditional weaving of handloom cloths.
• Also known as: Founders of hand-woven textiles.
• Ethnic Origin: Found in nearly all districts, mainly in Gumla and Simdega.
• Language: Nagpuri.
• Social Structure: Patriarchal and patrilineal.
• Caste Divisions: Bada Gohari (big caste) and Chhota Gohari (small caste).
• Gotras: Tanariya, Khamba, Tajna.
• No Community Institutions: No Akhra (dance ground) or traditional Panchayat.
• Marriage Practices:
  • Sagai refers to remarriage.
• Religious Beliefs:
  • Main deity: Singbonga.
  • Goddess: Devi Mai.
  • Previously practiced human sacrifice, now discontinued.
• Burial Site: Known as Masna.
• Festivals: Sarhul, Nawakhani, Karma, Jitiya, Bar Pahari, Surahi Puja, Devthan, Holi, Diwali, etc.

Exam Highlight: The absence of Akhra and Panchayat in this tribe is a unique identifier.

3. Bedia Tribe

• Tribal Population: Minority tribe.
• Ethnic Group: Belongs to the Dravidian group.
• Self-Identity: Call themselves Vednivas or Vedvani.
• Social Positioning: Consider themselves upper caste Hindus.
• Surnames: Use Bedia and Manjhi as honorifics.
• Geographical Concentration: Ranchi, Hazaribagh, Bokaro.
• Bride Price: Known as Dali Taka.
• Village Headman: Called Pradhan, also known as Mahto or Ohdar.
• Dance Ground: Known as Akhra.
• Marriage Type: Organized marriages are most common.
• Endogamy Rules: Inter-caste marriages (Thukur Theni) are strictly prohibited.
• Traditional Dress:
  • Men: Kerya, Kacha/Bhagwa.
  • Women: Thethi, Pachan.
• Religious Symbols and Totems:

Gotra	Totem Symbol
Therhar	A Bird
Fecha	Pig
Sudi	A Bird
Bambi/Aher	Fish
Barwar	Banyan Tree
Kachim	Tortoise
—	Squirrel

• Festivals: Dussehra, Diwali, Chhath, Sohrai, Karma, etc.

Exam Highlight: Use of Dali Taka as bride price and their rejection of Thukur Theni marriage is important.

4. Chidra Tribe

• Marriage Practices: Organized marriage is common.
• Endogamy Rule: Thukur Theni or exogamous marriages are socially forbidden.
• Traditional Clothing:
  • Men: Kerya, Kacha/Bhagwa.
  • Women: Thethi, Pachan.
• Festivals Celebrated: Dussehra, Diwali, Chhath, Sohrai, Karma, etc.
• Main Occupation: Agriculture.
• Main Deity: Surya (Sun God).
• Religious Place: Known as Sarna.

Exam Highlight: Sarna as the religious site and Sun worship are key identifiers.

5. Godait Tribe

• Status: Minority tribe.
• Ethnic Group: Belongs to the Proto-Australoid race.
• Geographical Spread: Ranchi, Palamu, Hazaribagh, Dhanbad, Lohardaga, Santhal Pargana, Singhbhum.
• Language: Sadani.
• Social System: Patriarchal.
• Marriage Restrictions:
  • Same gotra marriage and widow marriage are prohibited.
• Religious Practices:
  • Main deities: Devi Mai and Purubia.
  • Purubia is a tribal spirit offered goat sacrifice once a year.
  • Priest: Known as Baiga.
  • Sorcerer: Called Mati.
• Main Occupation: Agriculture.
• Historical Occupation: Known to work as watchmen/security guards in ancient times.

Exam Highlight: Unique worship of Purubia and sacrifice traditions are often asked.

Bedia Tribe

Social and Cultural Life

• The bride price in this tribe is known as **”Dali Taka”*.
• The village headman is called Pradhan, also known as Mahto or Ohdar.
• Their traditional dance arena is called Akhra.
• Most common form of marriage: Arranged marriage.
• Inter-clan marriages, known as “Thukur Theni”, are socially prohibited.
• Traditional male attire: Keraya, Kachha/Bhagwa.
• Traditional female attire: Thethi and Pachhan.
• Major festivals: Dussehra, Diwali, Chhath, Sohrai, Karma.

Economic Life

• Main occupation: Agriculture.

Religious Beliefs

• Chief deity: Sun God (Surya).
• They follow Suryahi worship tradition.
• Sacred place of worship: Sarna.

Clans (Gotra) and Their Totems

Gotra	Totem Symbol
Therhar	A bird
Bambi/Aher	A fish
Fecha	Pig
Sudi	A bird
Badwar	Banyan Tree
Kachhim	Tortoise
Squirrel	(Totem: Squirrel)

Godait Tribe

• Minority tribe in Jharkhand, belonging to Proto-Australoid group.
• Concentrated in: Ranchi, Palamu, Hazaribagh, Dhanbad, Lohardaga, Santhal Pargana, Singhbhum.
• Language: Sadani.
• Society is patriarchal.
• Intra-clan marriages and widow remarriage are forbidden.
• Major festivals: Devi Mai Puja and Purubia Puja.
• Main occupation: Agriculture.
• Historically engaged in village watchmanship.
• Worship deities like Purubia (a tribal ancestral spirit) and Devi Mai.
  • Purubia is worshipped annually with a goat sacrifice.
• Priests are known as Baiga.
• Tribal sorcerers are referred to as Mati.

Kora Tribe

• Belongs to the Proto-Australoid group, though Rizley classified them under Dravidian race.
• Sometimes referred to as “Dangar” (Earth-diggers).
• Language: Kora, from the Mundari branch (Austro-Asiatic).
• Settled primarily in: Hazaribagh, Dhanbad, Bokaro, Singhbhum, and Santhal Pargana.
• Society is patriarchal and patrilineal.
• According to Rizley, the tribe has 7 sub-tribes.
• Divided into classes: Tholo, Molo, Sikharia, Badmiya.
• Houses are called “Oda”, and clans (gotras) are called “Gushti”.
• Youth dormitory is called “Gitioda”.
• Bride price is called “Pon”.
• Intra-clan marriage is prohibited.
• Tattooing (Godna) is practiced; tattoos are believed to help identify relatives in heaven or hell.
• The village chief is called Mahto.

Gotras and Totems

Gotra	Totem
Magdhu	Drum (Nagara)
Chikhel	Squirrel
Butko	Pig
Kach	Tortoise
Meroy	Goat

• Among the Kora, “Kach” is the highest clan, while “Butkoi” is the lowest.

Religious Life

• Key festivals: Sawa Lakh Puja, Nawakhani, Bhagwati Dai Puja, Kali Mai Puja, Bageshwar Puja, Sohrai.
• Traditional dances: Khemta, Golwari, Dohri, Jhingfooliya.
• Traditional occupation: Earth-digging.
• Priests are referred to as Baiga.

Kawar Tribe

Recognized as Jharkhand’s 31st tribe on January 8, 2003 by the Government of India.

• Claimed descendants of the Kauravas.
• Racial group: Proto-Australoid.
• Language: Kawarati (also called Sadri).
• Society is patriarchal and patrilineal.
• 7 Gotras: Prahlad, Abhiarya, Shukdev, Lundak, Vashishtha, Vishwamitra, Parashar.
• Exogamous society—marriages are outside one’s own gotra (called Kutmaiti Pratha).
• Four types of marriages:
  • Purchase Marriage (most common)
  • Service Marriage
  • Book Marriage
  • Kiya Marriage
• Bride price is called Suk-dam, and when combined with 10 khandis of rice, it is called Suk-mol.
• The village council head is called Sayana, and village administration is handled by a Patel.

Religion and Festivals

• Main festivals: Karam, Teej, Jayakhani, Hareli, Ancestor Worship (Pitar Puja).
• Main deity: Sun God, associated with Sarna faith.
• Village deity is called Khoont Devta.
• Village priest is referred to as Pahan or Baiga.

Kol Tribe

Recognized as Jharkhand’s 32nd tribe in 2003 by the Government of India.

• Racial group: Proto-Australoid.
• Language: Kol, from the Kolarian linguistic group.
• Major presence in: Deoghar, Dumka, Giridih.
• Society is patriarchal and patrilineal.
• 12 Gotras: Hansda, Soren, Kisku, Marandi, Hembrom, Besra, Murmu, Tudu, Chaunde, Baskey, Chuniyar, Kisnov.
• Bride price is called Pote.
• The village chief is called Manjhi.
• Traditionally worked in iron smelting and blacksmithing.
• Currently shifting predominantly to agriculture.

Religion

• Adherents of Sarna religion.
• Chief deity: Singbonga.
• Also worship Shiva, Hanuman, Durga, Kali.
• Strong influence of Hinduism is evident.

Puran Tribe (Notified as 33rd Scheduled Tribe on April 8, 2022)

• (Important) Puran tribe was officially notified in the Gazette of India on 8 April 2022 as Jharkhand’s 33rd Scheduled Tribe.
• The demand for their inclusion dates back to undivided Bihar.
• (Important) Tribal Research Institute (1993) and National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (2014) recommended inclusion.
• Majority of the tribe is illiterate and landless.
• Recognized as fulfilling the criteria defined by the Lokur Committee (1965):
  • Unique cultural traits.
  • Customary rituals and totemic identity.
  • Bride price system.
  • Indigenous religious and administrative practices.
  • Proto-Australoid racial group affiliation.
• The community lives in multi-caste villages and maintains Jajmani relationships with other groups.
• They speak “Puran Boli”, a mix of Odia, Hindi, and Panchpargania.
• Also communicate in Hindi, Panchpargania, and Mundari.
• They have 13 exogamous clans (called Kili). (Important)
• Exogamous marriage system; same-clan marriages are forbidden.
• The bride price is referred to as “Chalau”.
• Various types of marriage:
  • Baha Ghar (purchasing bride),
  • Sindur Ghansa (abduction marriage),
  • Ghini Pala (elopement),
  • Dhuku Pasa (forced marriage),
  • Sanga Ghar (widow remarriage).
• Tribal Panchayat is known as Puran Sabha, headed by Pradhan or Mahaldar.
• Main occupation: Agriculture.
• Skilled in archery.
• Hadia (rice beer) is the primary traditional drink.
• The religious priest is called Pahan/Deuri, who performs birth, marriage, and death rituals.
• Hindu Brahmins are also sometimes consulted for rituals.
• Main deities: Dharam Devta and Basuki Mata. (Important)

Mal Pahariya Tribe (One of the Primitive Tribes of Jharkhand)

• (Important) Belongs to Proto-Australoid racial group.
• H.H. Risley relates them to Dravidian race.
• Russell & Hiralal consider them descendants of the Sakra tribe.
• Buchanan Hamilton links them to Malers.
• Concentrated in Santhal Pargana, but excluding Sahibganj. (Important)
• Language: Malto (of Dravidian language family).
• Patriarchal and patrilineal social structure.
• Do not practice a clan system.
• Endogamy is practiced (marriage within community).
• Bride price is called “Pon or Bandi”; usually in the form of pigs, signifying economic/social status. (Important)
• The matchmaker is called “Visithudar”. (Important)
• Groom bears all marriage expenses.
• Village chief is called “Manjhi”, who heads the village panchayat.
• Major religious festivals:
  • Maghi Puja (in Magh month),
  • Ghaghra Puja (in Aghan month),
  • Aadya Puja (in Jyestha during sowing),
  • Gangi Ayya Puja (during harvest),
  • Puna Aadya Puja (during bajra harvest).
• (Important) Primary occupation: Shifting cultivation (called Kurwa), food gathering, and hunting.
• Land is classified into four categories:
  • Sem (most fertile),
  • Tikur (least fertile),
  • Dem (medium),
  • Bari (for vegetables).
• Major deities: Sun and Mother Earth (Gorasi Gosai). (Important)
• Village priest is known as Dehri.
• Ancestor worship is highly significant.

Sauria Pahariya Tribe (Primitive and Oldest Inhabitants of Santhal Pargana)

• (Important) Belongs to Proto-Australoid race.
• Recognized as original inhabitants of Santhal Pargana.
• Mainly concentrated in Rajmahal hills (Damin-e-Koh).
• Never surrendered their independence to Mughals or Marathas.
• Identify themselves as Maler.
• Language: Malto, also use Bangla for communication.
• Reside in hilly areas, their dwellings are called “Adda”.
• Social structure is patriarchal.
• Girl’s consent is mandatory in marriage.
• Organized marriage is most common.
• Marriage officiator is known as Vedsi.
• Exogamy is forbidden.
• Divorce and remarriage are accepted.
• Bride price is known as Pon. (Important)
• Youth dormitories called “Kodwah”:
  • Masmak Kodwah for boys.
  • Pelmak Kodwah for girls. (Important)
• No clan system.
• Village head and priest is called Manjhi.
• Other village functionaries:
  • Siyanar (chief),
  • Bhandari (messenger),
  • Giri,
  • Kotwar.
• Agricultural festivals called Aadya:
  • Gangi Aadya (new crop in Bhadon),
  • Osra Aadya (Kartik, for Ghaghra),
  • Puna Aadya (Poush, for Bajra),
  • Saliyani Puja (in Chait). (Important)
• Property inheritance: passes to the eldest son.
  • If no son, the resident son-in-law (ghar jamai) inherits.

Economic System and Traditional Practices

Sauria Paharia Tribe

• Shifting agriculture is commonly practiced, known as Kurwa.
  Classified under cultural typology by Lalit Prasad Vidyarthi.
• On hill slopes, they perform agriculture by cutting and cleaning land, referred to as Bheetha or Dhami.

Asur Tribe

• Traditionally known for iron smelting, which was their main occupation.
• Currently, they are transitioning to permanent agriculture.
• Known as one of the oldest and most primitive tribes of Jharkhand.
• Their ethnic roots lie in the Proto-Australoid racial group.
• Migrated into Jharkhand from Madhya Pradesh.
• Their language is Asuri, belonging to the Austro-Asiatic language family, also called the Maley language.
• They are considered founders of the Indus Valley Civilization.
• Settled primarily in Latehar (especially Netarhat plateau), Gumla, Lohardaga, Singhbhum, and Dhanbad districts.

Birjia Tribe

• A primitive tribe under the Sadan ethnic group with Proto-Australoid ancestry.
• Considered a sub-group of the Asur tribe.
• Concentrated in Latehar, Gumla, and Lohardaga districts.
• Their name Birjia means “fish of the forest” (compare: Birhor = man of the forest).
• Their major occupation is agriculture.
• In the plateau regions, they also practice shifting agriculture.

Religious System and Deities

Sauria Paharia Tribe

• Primary deity: Laihu Gosai.
• Other important deities:
  • Sun God
  • Bairu Gosai *
  • Chant Devta
  • Vilp Gosai
  • Kal Devta
  • Kal Gosai *
  • Po Gosai (Highway Deity)
  • Darmare Gosai (Truth Deity)
  • Jarmatre Gosai (Birth Deity)
  • Autga (Hunting Deity)
• Ancestor worship holds immense significance.
• Religious duties are performed by Kando Manjhi, assisted by Kotwar and Chaalve.
• As per Risley, their religion aligns with Animism (Jeevvaad).

Asur Tribe

• Main deity: Singbonga.
• Religious head: Baiga *
• Assistant priest: Subari
• Sorcerers or shamans are called Mati.
• Cremation ground is called Sasan, located near water sources, where a stone is erected in memory of the deceased.
• Deeply rooted in ancestor worship and nature spirits.
• Their name appears in ancient texts like the Rigveda, Aranyakas, Upanishads, and Mahabharata.

In the Rigveda, they are referred to as:

Term	Meaning
Anasaha	Flat-nosed
Avrata	Irreligious/Uncultured
Murdha Vacha	Inarticulate speakers
Sudridh	Inhabitants of iron fortresses

Birjia Tribe

• Chief deity: Singbonga, also worship Marang Buru.
• Village religious head: Baiga.
• Observe major festivals like Sarhul, Sohrai, Ashadhi Puja, Karma, and Phagua.

Culture and Society

Asur Tribe

• Divided into three sub-tribes: Veer, Birjia, and Agharia.
• Youth dormitory is called Gitioda.
• Follow exogamous marriage practices (marrying outside one’s gotra).
• Gotra and totemic symbols:

Gotra	Symbol
Kerketta	Bird
Beng	Peacock
Barwa	Wild animal
Baghna	Tiger
Aid	Fish

• Bride price is known as Dali Taka.
• Unique tradition: Idi Mi – cohabitation before marriage; marriage is mandatory later.
• Matrilineal joint families are common.
• Forbidden for unmarried individuals to plant banana trees.
• Pregnant women are prohibited from watching eclipses.
• Pregnancy duration is traditionally estimated by observing abdominal shape.
• Delivery room is called Khaddi, and midwife is called Chamain.
• First-born daughter is considered auspicious.
• Infertility is seen as divine punishment; infertile women face social stigma.
• Newborns are tied with a leather thread (Chamabandi Sanskar) for protection, removed at marriage.
• Food terminology:
  • Lologhotu Jomenku – Day meal
  • Chhotu Jomenk – Night meal
• Popular traditional drink: Handia, also known as Botha or Jharnui.
• Major festivals:
  • Sarhul
  • Sohrai
  • Kathbeli Sarhi
  • Kutli – to promote iron-smelting tradition
  • Nawakhani

Birjia Tribe

• Identify themselves as descendants of Pundarik Nag.
• Patriarchal and patrilineal society.
• Two marriage-based subgroups:
  • Sinduria – Use vermillion (sindur) in rituals.
  • Telia – Use oil in rituals.
    • Telia further splits into:
      • Doodh Birjia – Drink cow’s milk, abstain from meat.
      • Ras Birjia – Drink milk and consume meat.
• Practice polygamy.
• Meal terminology:
  • Lukma – Morning meal
  • Kalewa – Afternoon meal
  • Biyari – Night meal

Key Highlights for Competitive Exams

• Asur tribe is believed to have founded the Indus Valley Civilization.
• “Idi Mi” tradition is unique to Asur tribe.
• “Chamabandi Sanskar” is a protective ritual for children in Asur community.
• Religious duties in Sauria Paharia tribe are handled by “Kando Manjhi”.
• “Kurwa” refers to shifting cultivation among Sauria Paharias.
• Asuri language is part of the Austro-Asiatic family.
• Baiga is the religious head in both Asur and Birjia tribes.
• Birjia tribe believes they descend from Pundarik Nag.
• “Gitioda” is the youth dormitory of Asur tribe.

1. Parahiya Tribe

• Ethnic Group: Belongs to the Proto-Australoid racial group. Also referred to as a minor Dravidian tribe by Risley.
• Geographical Distribution: Mainly in Palamu division; also found in Ranchi, Chatra, Hazaribagh, and Santhal Pargana regions.
• Kinship System:
  • Uses a natal system similar to Hindus.
  • Two kinship categories:
    • Dhaayaniya: Kinship by birth, members called Kul Kutumb (extended family).
    • Sanahi: Kinship by marriage, members called Hit Kutumb (affinal family).
  • No clan (gotra) system present.
• Marriage Customs:
  • Arranged marriage is most common.
  • Bride price known as ‘Dali’.
• Household and Settlement:
  • Houses called ‘Sasan’.
  • Hut-like houses known as ‘Imla’.
  • Family size counted by ‘Kurala’ (hearth).
• Social Organization:
  • Village council called ‘Bhaiyari’ or ‘Jatigoth’.
  • Village head known as ‘Mahto’ or ‘Pradhan’.
• Occupations:
  • Primarily basket weaving using bamboo.
  • Also skilled in making drums.
  • Traditionally practiced shifting cultivation called ‘Biyoda’ or ‘Jhoom’.
• Religious Beliefs:
  • Major deity: Earth.
  • Ancestor worship known as ‘Mua Puja’ holds great importance.
  • Religious leader called ‘Dihuri’.
  • Belief in supernatural powers is strong.
• Festivals:
  • Sarhul, Karma, Dharti Puja, Sohrai are main festivals.

2. Birhor Tribe

• Lifestyle: Nomadic (gypsy-like) tribe.
• Ethnic Group: Proto-Australoid racial group; linguistically linked to Austro-Asiatic group.
• Language: Birhor language.
• Claimed Descent: Consider themselves Suryavanshi (descendants of the Sun).
• Distribution: Concentrated in Hazaribagh, Chatra, Koderma, Bokaro, Dhanbad, Giridih, Ranchi, Gumla, Simdega, Lohardaga, Garhwa, Palamu, Latehar, Singhbhum.
• Etymology: ‘Birhor’ means ‘forest man’ in Mundari language.
• Society:
  • Patriarchal and patrilineal.
  • Settlement called ‘Tanda’.
  • Huts called ‘Kumba’ or ‘Karhar’.
  • Large huts called ‘Oda Kumba’; small huts called ‘Choo Kumba’.
• Kinship System:
  • Has 13 clans (gotras).
  • Youth dormitory called ‘Gitijori’, ‘Gityora’, or ‘Githio’.
  • Boys’ dormitory called ‘Donda Kantha’, girls’ dormitory called ‘Didi Kundi’.
• Marriage:
  • Practices 10 types of marriage.
  • Most common is purchase marriage (Sadar Bapla).
  • Other forms include service marriage, exchange marriage, elopement marriage, and widow remarriage.
• Festivals and Dance:
  • Celebrates Karma, Sohrai, Nawajom, Jitia, Dalai festivals.
  • Popular dances include Dang, Lagri, and Mutkar.
• Instruments:
  • Tumda (mandar/dhol), Tamak (nagada), and Tiriyon (bamboo flute).
• Economy:
  • Main occupations: woodcutting, hunting, and food gathering.
  • Birhor are divided into ‘Ulthu’ (nomadic) and ‘Janghi’ (settled) groups.
• Land Tenure:
  • Land categorized into ‘Bera’ (lowland), ‘Bad’ (midland), and ‘Goda’ (highland).
  • Land is community-owned and cannot be sold.
• Craftsmanship:
  • Skilled in brass, copper, and bronze work.
• Religious Beliefs:
  • Main deities: Singbonga, Ora Bonga, Kando Bonga, Hoprom Bonga, Tanda Bonga, and Goddess Mai.
  • Religious head called ‘Naye’.

3. Korwa Tribe

• Ethnic Group: Considered the progenitor of the Kolerian tribal group.
• Race and Language: Proto-Australoid racial group; linguistically Austro-Asiatic.
• Classification: Recognized as Hunter-Gatherers by Jharkhand government.
• Geographical Distribution: Mainly Palamu division; migrated from Madhya Pradesh.
• Sub-tribes:
  • Pahadi Korwa (hill dwellers).
  • Diha Diharia Korwa (lowland dwellers).
• Clan System:
  • 6 clans: Hutariten, Kharpo, Suiya, Kasi, Kokat, and Buchung.
• Marriage:
  • Monogamous marriage prevalent.
  • Clan exogamy (sagotra marriage) is prohibited.
  • Two types of marriage:
    • Chadke marriage: Bride’s family hosts.
    • Dola marriage: Groom’s family hosts.
  • Widow remarriage called ‘Maiyari’.
• Festivals:
  • Main festival: Karma.
• Religious Beliefs:
  • Snake worship is significant.
  • Main deities: Singbonga, village protector Gamelh, and animal protector Raksel.
  • Priest called ‘Baiga’.
• Economy:
  • Engage in agriculture, hunting, animal husbandry, craft making, and labor.
  • Practice shifting cultivation called ‘Biyoda’.

4. Sabar Tribe

• Ethnic Group: Belongs to the Proto-Australoid group; linked to Munda tribal group.
• Historical Mention:
  • Existence mentioned since Treta Yuga.
  • Referred in Mahabharata.
• Sub-groups:
  • Jhara, Basu, and Jayatapati; only Jhara Sabars live in Jharkhand, others in Odisha.
• Colonial Classification: Listed under the Criminal Tribes Act (1871) by British.
• Notable Study: Focus of writer Mahasweta Devi.
• Distribution: Mainly Singhbhum; also Ranchi, Hazaribagh, Bokaro, Dhanbad, Giridih, Palamu, Santhal Pargana.
• Languages: Odia, Bengali, Hindi.
• Society:
  • Patriarchal.
  • No clan system or polygamy.
  • Bride price called ‘Pote’.
  • No youth dormitory.
  • Village head called ‘Pradhan’.
• Cultural Aspects:
  • Popular dances: Domkach and Panta Salia.
• Festivals:
  • Mansa Puja, Durga Puja, Kali Puja.
• Occupation:
  • Agriculture, forest product collection, and labor.
• Religious Beliefs:
  • Main deity: Kali.
  • Ancestor worship important; deceased ancestors called ‘Masihman’ or ‘Budha-Budhi’.
  • Animal sacrifice of rooster.
  • Village priest called ‘Dihuri’.

Other Important Notes

Names of Youth Dormitories in Different Tribes

Tribe(s)	Name of Youth Dormitory
Santhal, Gond	Ghotul
Uraon	Ghumkuria
Munda, Kora, Asur	Gitieoda
Birhor	Gotia
Kharia	Ho
Kodva	Gitie
Sauria Paharia	Gitieoda / Gitijori / Gatyora
Birhor (*)	Gitijori

(*Birhor youth dormitory noted for exams)

Common Marriage Types Across Tribes

• Purchase Marriage (Kray Vivah): Santhal, Munda, Ho, Uraon, Kharia, Birhor, Korwa
• Exchange Marriage (Vinimay Vivah): Common in most tribes
• Widow Marriage (Vidhwa Vivah): Santhal, Uraon, Munda, Banjara, Birhor
• Service Marriage (Seva Vivah): Santhal, Uraon, Munda, Birhor, Bhumij, Korwa
• Forced Marriage (Hath Vivah): Santhal, Munda, Birhor, Ho
• Elopement Marriage (Sahapalan Vivah): Munda, Kharia, Birhor
• Abduction Marriage (Haran Vivah): Uraon, Munda, Ho, Kharia, Birhor, Sauria Paharia, Bhumi

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Bride Price Names in Various Tribes

Bride Price Name	Tribes
Pone	Santhal, Karmali, Sauria Paharia, Kora
Mahli	Dasturi, Chero
Gonong/Gonong	Munda
Taka	Sabara, Kol
Gining Tah	Kharia
Dali	Kisan, Parahiya, Banjara
Pone/Hadua	Karmali
Pone/Gonong/Gonom	Ho
Suk-Dam	Korwa
Pone Taka	Mahli
Pone Bandi	Mal Paharia
Dali Taka	Bedia, Asur

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Major Languages Spoken by Tribes

Language/Boli	Tribes	Language Family
Kudukh	Uraon	Dravidian
Malto	Mal Paharia, Sauria Paharia	Dravidian
Gondi	Gond	Dravidian
Kharia	Kharia	Mundari (Austro-Asiatic)
Ho	Ho	Mundari (Austro-Asiatic)
Kora	Kora	Mundari (Austro-Asiatic)
Santhali	Santhal	Austro-Asiatic
Mundari	Munda, Kisan, Bhumij	Austro-Asiatic
Asuri	Asur	Austro-Asiatic
Birhor	Birhor	Austro-Asiatic
Bebari	Bebari	Austro-Asiatic
Khurwar	Kol	Austro-Asiatic
Sadani	Nagpuri
Savari	Kisan