It is probably one of the most underrated places in terms of tourism and photography.
One of the unique aspects of Chhattisgarh is the variety of tribes you witness. Gond, Dhurvaa, Muria are the primary tribes to name a few.
I love shooting people and their lifestyles. The simplicity of the life of the tribals really fascinates me and I attempt to capture it in the best possible way.
That is the reason they are so happy and celebrate so much.
With great connectivity by train and flight, Raipur is very accessible and can take you to the heart of the tribal lands in just a few hours.
The most interesting events during any visit to Chhattisgarh are the visits to weekly tribal markets. They are always bustling with activities and it is a great opportunity to meet the locals. People come from the nearby villages, shop, eat and catch up with others. For photographers, it is the best time to capture some flavor of the culture.
The festivals are also very interesting, the most important being Dussehra, which is celebrated not for days but months.
Chhattisgarh is a place where I always feel at home and I love to go back to the places again and again.
My Tribal Chattisgarh Pictures
See my pictures of Tribal Chhatisgarh in better resolution here .
(for computer users)Note: If you want a privated and customized tour anywhere in India focused on Photography, I will be happy to organise it for you.
The state's diverse tribes have preserved their unique traditions, customs, and ways of life through generations, offering a fascinating glimpse into their vibrant world. This article delves into the daily life, festivals, markets, marriage customs, and the various tribes that make Chhattisgarh a culturally rich state.
Introduction to the Tribes of Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh, with its lush forests and scenic landscapes, is inhabited by several indigenous tribes. Among the most prominent are the Gonds, Marias, Baigas, Halbas, Bhunjias, and Abujhmarias. Each tribe boasts its own distinct identity, language, and cultural practices, contributing to the state's cultural mosaic. Despite the rapid modernization around them, these tribes have managed to retain their traditional ways, though their lifestyle is changing like never before.
Daily Life of Chhattisgarh Tribes
The daily life of Chhattisgarh's tribal communities is deeply intertwined with nature. Agriculture is the primary occupation, with most tribes practicing subsistence farming. Crops like rice, maize, and millets form the staple diet. The tribals also engage in hunting, fishing, and gathering forest produce such as fruits, herbs, and honey.
Houses in tribal villages are typically made from locally sourced materials like bamboo, mud, and thatch.
The architecture reflects a deep understanding of their environment, providing cool interiors in the summer and warmth during winter. Women play a crucial role in maintaining the household, from cooking and childcare to participating in agricultural activities. The simplicity of their lifestyle is complemented by a strong community spirit, where cooperation and mutual aid are paramount.
Festivals of Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh's festivals are a vibrant reflection of its rich tribal culture and traditions. Celebrated with enthusiasm and devotion, these festivals highlight the unique customs and communal harmony of the region.
Bastar Dussehra
The Bastar Dussehra, celebrated for 75 days by the Gond tribe, is a unique event honoring local deities with elaborate rituals. Unlike the mainstream Dussehra, this festival focuses on the worship of tribal gods and includes processions, sacrifices, and traditional music and dance.
This festival is a must visit for every traveller who wants to document a different facet of Dussehra.
Hareli Festival
The Hareli festival marks the start of the agricultural season. Farmers worship their tools and livestock, seeking blessings for a bountiful harvest. This festival underscores the deep connection between the tribals and their agrarian lifestyle.
Madai Festival
The Madai festival involves colorful processions, animal sacrifices, and traditional dances. It is an important event for community bonding, where people from different tribes come together to celebrate, trade, and strengthen social ties.
These festivals are not only religious observances but also occasions for social gatherings and the celebration of nature's bounty.
Unfortunately, the participation of the locals in the festivals is on a decline as most of them work in the cities.
The Tribal Markets
The weekly tribal markets, locally known as 'haats,' are vibrant centers of commerce and social interaction. Held weekly, these markets are where the tribals buy and sell goods, including agricultural produce, forest products, and handmade crafts. The haats are not just economic hubs but also cultural melting pots, where people from different tribes interact, exchange stories, and strengthen communal ties.
In these markets, one can find intricate handicrafts, traditional jewelry, and textiles that reflect the tribes' artistic skills. The markets are also famous for their unique food items, including wild honey, tamarind, and various forest herbs, offering a glimpse into the tribal diet.
Marriage Customs
Marriage in Chhattisgarh's tribal communities is a celebration of unity, tradition, and social alliance. Marriages are usually arranged, with a significant emphasis on community approval. The wedding ceremonies are elaborate, involving numerous rituals that vary from tribe to tribe.
The Gonds, for instance, have a unique ritual called 'Ghotul,' a youth dormitory system where young boys and girls live together and choose their partners. The Baiga tribe's marriages involve colorful ceremonies and traditional dances, symbolizing the joyous union of two families.
Bride price, known as 'Dahej' in some tribes, is a common practice, where the groom's family offers gifts to the bride's family. The marriage festivities are accompanied by feasts, music, and dance, making it a community event that strengthens social bonds.
Names of Different Tribes
Chhattisgarh is home to numerous tribes, each with its unique identity and cultural practices. Some of the major tribes include:
- Gonds: One of the largest tribes, known for their rich folklore and the famous Bastar Dussehra.
- Baigas: Renowned for their deep knowledge of herbal medicine and traditional healing practices.
- Halbas: Primarily agriculturists, the Halbas are known for their vibrant festivals and dances.
- Bhunjias: Inhabit the forest regions and are known for their simple lifestyle and deep connection with nature.
- Abujhmarias: Known for their reclusive nature and unique customs, they inhabit the Abujhmarh hills.
Each of these tribes contributes to the diverse cultural fabric of Chhattisgarh, with their languages, art forms, and traditions adding to the state’s rich heritage.
Tribals working in the fields during the rainy season near Chitrakoot Waterfall. The kids also help them in these days of heavy workload. Chitrakoot is the widest fall in India one of the most beautiful too.
One of the most unique things to see in Chhattisgarh is the tribal markets. These tribals have a great sense of colour and wear very vibrant clothes.
This is one of the shots from a village near Kodagaon. With mustard fields blooming, it gives great opportunities for photographers.
The tribals are very happy people and it shows up in their faces.
A dance performer just got ready and was the right time to take this shot.
During the dances, the females dress in beautiful sarees with the men wear the headgear of horns. They use these drums and are a great percussionists.
One of the dance performances of the Muria tribes. They are full of energy and provide great opportunities for photographers.
Shooting the lifestyles and the environment of the tribals is very interesting. It gives us an opportunity to witness their simple living.
Two dancers walk up to the dancing area. The play of light and shadows made for a great picture.
As the sun is about to set, a child returns home with his cattle.
We need to learn a lot from the tribals. They have the creativity to create art from ordinary things. In this picture, a Muria tribal around Kondagaon shows his light shade made out of pumpkin skin to a tourist.
A Bhadra tribe near Parali. These are very hard-working people.
A common practice of the ladies to clean the rice and remove the husks every day before the meal is prepared.
A girl child using a skipping rope prepared from dried grass. It's amazing how they have learnt to use things from nature for their use.
A Dhurva tribal boy displays his cock in the weekly market. These markets are very vibrant and bustling with activities. They provide great opportunities for photographers.
Tips for photographers
- Respect the locals.
- Treat them like subject, not like objects.
- If possible, buy local products from them. You will get prenty of opportunities in the tribal markets.
All rights reserved. No copying without permission of the author Saurabh Chatterjee