Material Culture of the Orissan Tribals

Book Detail

• ISBN: 9788124604229
• Brand: D.K. Printworld Pvt. Ltd.
• Edition: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of Pages: 218
• Release Date: 30-12-2007
• Package Dimensions: 8.6 x 5.6 x 0.8 inches
• Languages: English

Description

This book delves into the material culture of the three sub-groups of the Kondhs, a major tribal community of Orissa, located in the districts of Koraput, Kalahandi, and Phulbani. It examines the cultural life of the Kutia Kondhs, Dongaria Kondhs, and Malia Kondhs, highlighting the differences and similarities in their social and cultural lives despite the distinct characteristics of each group.

The book provides detailed insights into their settlements, artefacts, art objects, and the material culture that plays a significant role in their daily life. It covers a wide range of topics, including their occupations, habitats, ecosystems, and housing types. The focus is on understanding how these communities maintain unity through their diversity in various cultural aspects such as socio-cultural, religious, and aesthetic practices.

Through numerous illustrations, the book showcases the household objects, personal care items, dress, adornments, religious objects, and musical instruments used by the Kondhs. Each artefact is described alongside its local name in the Kondh dialect, providing an ethnographic view of their everyday lives. The analysis identifies changes and continuities in their cultural practices over time, offering valuable insights into the preservation and evolution of their traditions.

This work is an enriching exploration of one of India's most ancient and diverse tribal cultures. It will be an invaluable resource for scholars in anthropology, sociology, and related fields, as well as anyone interested in understanding the social and cultural fabric of tribal India.

Author Details

• Author: Nityananda Patnaik
• About the Author: Nityananda Patnaik is a noted scholar in the fields of anthropology and sociology, with a focus on tribal cultures of India. He has conducted extensive fieldwork among tribal communities in Orissa, particularly the Kondhs, and his research sheds light on the complex and diverse traditions of these groups. His works contribute significantly to the understanding of indigenous cultures in India.