Kharia

Abstract

Odisha has the unique distinction of having as many as 62 Tribal Communities including 13 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) spread over different parts of the state. The varied cultures of these tribal communities are extremely significant and they produce many beautiful arts and artifacts which have attracted tourists from different regions of the globe. Similarly, these tribal groups are unique for their colourful and vibrant life style as well as rhythmic dances which are culturally significant. Some of their fairs and festivals have rich cultural significance. But the pity is that their rich socio cultural life and their performing arts are disintegrating fast. In view of this, there is an urgent need to document the rich culture and socio-economic life of these tribal communities before they become antiquity so that government as well as non-government agencies can know about them and can take appropriate steps for conserving their rich cultural traditions and practices.Keeping the above facts in view, SCs and STs Research and Training Institute (SCSTRTI), Bhubaneswar, Odisha has taken the initiative to document the socio-economic and cultural life of all the 13 PTGs as well as most of the culturally significant tribal communities of the State and publish Photo Hand Books on each of these tribal communities. Photo Hand Books on the PVTGs and many of the other tribes have already been published which have been highly appreciated by wide range of readers. Kharia is a major tribe of Odisha having three sections i.e. Hill Kharia, Dhelki Kharia and Dudh Kharia. The Hill Kharia being basically forest collectors are identified as a PVTG. The, Dhelki and Dudh Kharias are settled groups who depend upon agriculture. The Photo Hand Book on KHARIA is one of the series of Photo Hand Books on the Tribes of Odisha. It is hoped that this book will be useful and appreciated by the academicians, researchers, planners and lovers of tribal culture.