Birhor Tribe: Preserving a Unique Nomadic Cultural Identity

Why in the news?

The Birhor tribe has gained attention for its involvement in social campaigns like anti-child marriage initiatives, showcasing its efforts to adapt to modern societal changes while safeguarding its traditional nomadic heritage and unique cultural practices.

Birhor Tribe: Preserving Unique Nomadic Culture

Overview of the Birhor Tribe:

  • The Birhor tribe is classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) and predominantly resides in Jharkhand, with smaller populations in Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and West Bengal.
  • The name ‘Birhor’ means ‘jungle people,’ derived from bir (jungle) and hor (men), emphasizing their close association with forest ecosystems.
  • They speak the Birhor language, which belongs to the Munda subgroup of the Austroasiatic language family, sharing similarities with Santali, Mundari, and Ho languages.

Cultural and Economic Practices

  • Ethnologically linked to Santals, Mundas, and Hos, the Birhor exhibit distinct physical traits such as short stature, wavy hair, broad noses, and long heads.
  • Traditionally nomadic, their economy revolves around hunting, particularly monkeys, and gathering forest produce.
  • Rope-making from vine fibers is a significant livelihood activity, with ropes sold in local markets.
  • The community is divided into two groups: Uthlus (nomadic) and Janghis (settled agriculturalists).

Spiritual Beliefs and Modern Transitions

  • The Birhor practice a mix of animism and Hinduism, tracing their ancestry to the Sun.
  • They consider the Kharwars, another Sun-descendant tribe, as their kin.
  • Engagement in modern social movements, like anti-child marriage campaigns, reflects their evolving societal role while maintaining their cultural identity.
  • Their efforts exemplify a delicate balance between tradition and integration into contemporary society.

About Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs):

  • A subset of tribal groups in India with higher vulnerability.
  • Characterized by primitive traits, geographical isolation, low literacy, and backwardness.
  • Depend on hunting and pre-agriculture level technology for survival.
  • It Comprises 75 tribes, with 2.8 million members across 22,544 villages in 220 districts of 18 Indian states and Union Territories.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times

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