Chinmaya IAS Academy – Current Affairs Chinmaya IAS Academy – Current Affairs
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Concept :
- Inhabiting the Niyamgiri Hills of Odisha resides the Dongria Kondh tribe, also known as Dangaria Kandha.
- This hilly region, characterized by dense forests, cascading streams, and deep canyons, provides sustenance for the Dongria Kondh through hunting, gathering, and practicing a unique form of agriculture.
- Their name itself reflects this connection to the hills, with “Dongaria” stemming from “Dongar,” meaning “agricultural land on slopes.”
- Interestingly, they also refer to themselves as “Jharnia,” which translates to “protectors of streams,” highlighting their deep respect for the environment.
- Distinct cultural practices :
- They converse in the spoken Kui language, a cherished aspect of their Kondh heritage.
- Their reverence for the mountain god Niyam Raja and the surrounding hills permeates every aspect of their lives. This is evident even in their art, where the triangular designs adorning village shrines echo the shapes of the mountains.
- Distinctive physical appearances further set them apart. Men and women sport unique hairstyles, jewelry, and tattoos. Elaborate ear and nose ornamentation is a common sight, with women adorned with multiple rings and girls sporting hair clips and beaded necklaces.
- Their villages, scattered throughout the hills, stand as testaments to their deep connection to this remarkable landscape.
