Cultural Dimensions of Tribes of Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

The concept of the Scheduled Tribe varies from State to State or Area to Area. Andhra Pradesh is the traditional home of nearly 33 tribal groups and most of these communities are found inhabiting in the border areas of Andhra Pradesh in the North and North-East. The influence of the habitats, environment, river systems, flora, and fauna, neighbourhood, ethnic groups etc. is conspicuous in culture and customs of local tribal communities. Since Geo-ethnic characteristics, the tribal areas of Andhra Pradesh can be divided into five geographical regions i.e Gond-Kolam region, Koya-Konda Reddi region, Khond-Savara region, Chenchu region and Plain areas. Almost all the tribal communities possess rich mythologies, folk tales, stories which simply illustrate their affinity and relationship with the heroes of great epics and great tradition. The social organization of various tribal groups living territory is more or less identical. The in-depth study of clan and Phratry organization of Gond tribe in Adilabad district reveal the elaborate and complex divisions and affiliations in the community. Patriarchal, patrilineal family types are universally found among tribal communities. The tribes of Andhra Pradesh practice the six type of socially accepted ways of acquiring mates. The Ceremonial Friendship, Goth Friendship, Flower Friendship and Jangad noticed in the tribal areas of Andhra Pradesh. Celebrations of fairs and festivals are the gayest time in different parts of tribal areas. The Keslapur Jatra, Samakka Jatra, Chaitra Festival, Diwali Festival and Kotha Festival details are discussed in this report. the Chaitra festival or purub is the most jubilant occasion to all the ethnic groups living in the scheduled areas from Srikakulam to Khamam district. The folk dances are very significant part of tribal cultural heritage. The hanging seasons, agro-forest activities and the social and religious festivals, all occasions of joy and amusement are celebrated with befitting performance of dance, song, and music. The report also illustrates the Tramson Dance, Dimsa Dance, Mayura Dance, Dhandari Dance, Demsa Dance, and Peramakok Ata.