Festivals of a Native People of Odisha

A festival is a dynamic cultural or social event that unites communities in celebrating specific traditions or themes. Festivals intertwine organized activities, rituals, performances, and gatherings, fostering an atmosphere of unity and joy. They transcend mere beliefs or myths, showcasing shared values and historical events. Through festivals, cultural heritage is preserved, social bonds are fortified, and everyday routines are momentarily set aside for jubilation.

Exploring Gadaba Festivals

Step into the world of the Gadaba people, who migrated from the Godavari river belt to Orissa and Andhra Pradesh around 300 to 400 years ago, and encountered their rich festival traditions. With an estimated population of 60,000, Gadaba individuals reside across both states. Distinct linguistic groups—Ollar Gadaba, Mudhili Gadaba, and Gutob Gadaba—share cultural practices while retaining linguistic variations.

The Ollar Gadaba, nestled near the Andhra Pradesh border in Koraput, Orissa, offers a unique landscape. The surroundings boast gently sloping hills, winding roads, and remnants of deforestation, contrasting with sporadic trees and government plantations. In villages like Pandriguda, comprising 30 to 80 houses and 150 to 300 people, the Gadaba way of life unfolds.

A Year of Celebrations

The Gadaba people revel in a festival-rich lifestyle, celebrating 12 festivals throughout the year, each tied to seasons and village life. "Karke Paroop," the mango-focused first fruit festival, stands as a testament to this vibrant tapestry. Notably, mangoes are tasted only after this seven to eight-day celebration.

The Heart of Gadaba Festivals

Festivals constitute the heart of Gadaba life. Each season and village facet is honored through song, dance, merrymaking, and rituals. "Kuse Paroop," in January, sees offerings of new paddy and harvested vegetables to cattle. "Nandee Paroop," following in February, celebrates blessings from the female clan spirit.

A Symphony of Seasons

"Kardil Vatpondi Paroop," marking the transition from February to March, coincides with the harvest of tuvar dhal. The arrival of March signals "Karke Paroop," intertwining the joy of mango plucking with communal dining and hunting.

As the monsoon approaches, "Bowda Paroop" sees villagers crafting raincoats from leaves. November's "Diyali Paroop" pays homage to the goddess Mahalaxmi through buffalo or bull sacrifices. "Jone Punnet Paroop," in July, appreciates the maize harvest with household chicken offerings.

An Ode to Harvests

"Varees Punnet Paroop" in September celebrates freshly harvested paddy, paired with newly harvested pumpkins. October brings "Dasare," akin to Durga Puja. However, December's "Balee Paroop" is not of Gadaba origin, and involves sand-related festivities.

Welcome to Pandriguda, an enchanting tribal village nestled in Orissa, located 40 km from the district capital, Koraput. This bustling hamlet is currently immersed in a festive atmosphere, as the Gadaba people celebrate one of their 12 annual festivals, each closely tied to the changing seasons. This vibrant occasion is Karke Paroop, the inaugural mango fruit festival, marking the time when the succulent mangoes are finally ready to be plucked and savored. This week-long celebration culminates in a grand revelry lasting seven to eight days.

The festivities commence with a day of reprieve, during which all chores and tasks must be concluded before this period of rest. Any labor carried out either within the village or its vicinity on this day incurs a penalty, the severity of which is determined by the village council. As the sun sets, a sumptuous dinner is prepared by select families, organized by clan or neighborhood affiliations. The highlight of this meal is rice paired with the season's initial harvest of mangoes.

With the dawn of the following day, jubilation sweeps through the village, as men and women gather to participate in spirited singing, dancing, or observing the merriment. This collective revelry is accompanied by rhythmic drumming and the distinctive tradition of linked hand movements.

The third-day ushers in playful hunts for the village's children. This serves as both an entertaining pastime for the young and a warm-up for the elder men before their own hunting expedition. Subsequently, the experienced men embark on a hunting excursion, continuing until they successfully capture an animal. Wild pigs are typically the sought-after prey. Triumph in the hunt is celebrated with exuberant festivities. Although alcohol consumption and tobacco smoking are common practices among both men and women, dancing while bearing the head of the hunted pig symbolizes joy and triumph.

In Pandriguda, this day marks the third day of the festival. As I framed a snapshot, the procession momentarily paused. The young boys participating in the procession were meant to represent the hunted quarry—a sparrow and a rat. Although a squirrel or a desirable bird would have been preferred, circumstances dictated that a rat would suffice.

As the procession advances towards the village center and its sacred altar, the entire community gathers beneath the shelter of a grand tree. Elderly women stand ready to receive the youthful hunters, each offered a token of welcome—a dab of moist rice on the forehead and a delicate flower tucked behind the ear. Personally, I too received this gracious greeting, owing to my status as a guest, accompanied by my guide and host family who are warmly embraced by the village. The creatures captured during the hunt will be cooked over an open flame and shared amongst the villagers.

As dusk descended, my companions and I embarked on a guided exploration of the village. Most inhabitants were within their homes, while some women drew water from the well. They meticulously fetched sufficient water for household use and men's bathing. Clusters of women gathered near certain residences, all indulging in homemade rice-based spirits.

Returning to our lodgings, we resumed our conversations over cups of tea. However, the tranquility was interrupted by a growing commotion. A procession was departing the village, destined for another ceremonial puja (worship). Hastening through our final sips of tea, we joined the throng.

Armed with spears and axes, the assembly journeyed to a designated spot on the paved road. A woman had previously adorned this space with cow dung to consecrate the puja ground. All tools and spears were arranged on the ground. Following ritual chants, the leader sprinkled rice grains. Holding a newborn chicken, he released the bird after reciting additional invocations. Once the chicken pecked at the rice, it was swiftly dispatched with the edge of a spear. An egg was positioned atop the scattered rice, standing as a target for bow and arrow. The spear acted as a measuring tool for determining the distance. Precise aim and skilled archery signified a promising hunt on the subsequent day. Participation was open to all; even stone-throwing was permitted, given that few were proficient in using bows and arrows.

Remarkably, one young man managed to strike the egg with a stone. Although he earned the evening's accolades, he promptly fled, aware that he would be required to provide treats in return. Nevertheless, the crowd seized his elder brother, hoisting him onto their shoulders before seating him on a raised stone platform beneath the tree. Routine greetings were exchanged, involving damp rice applied to foreheads and flowers tucked behind ears.

As the sun dipped beyond the hills, shepherds guided their flocks back to the village. Just like every aspect of life in the village, tending to sheep and cattle was a collective effort. Responsibilities were shared, including the rotation of grazing duties. Additionally, hired hands were employed to oversee the herds throughout the year, in exchange for a set fee. The animals streamed through the village en route to their designated shelters, signaling the close of yet another day. With nightfall settling, the time for sustenance, refreshment, and repose had arrived.

With darkness enveloping Pandriguda, the village slipped into tranquility. Absent were the glow of streetlights, as electricity remained absent from this corner of the world.

Daylight emerged around 5:30 AM, prompting villagers to venture into the countryside, each armed with a neem tree branch-fashioned toothbrush, held between their lips. The village elder, referred to as Naik, still slumbered in the front yard, his form cloaked in a nearby blanket.

Naik's wife, Murthal, found solace near an outdoor fire, seeking warmth. Once more, the village women congregated at the well, retrieving water for daily needs. A group of young men emerged from a village corner, two clutching hens—one white and the other black. Their destination was Naik's brother's residence, where it seemed a quarrel had ensued the previous night following a hearty festive indulgence. During this season, disputes and altercations were forbidden, with the common punishment being the contribution of a chicken. When leaders themselves erred, their peers ensured compliance.

Arriving at Naik's abode, the young men sought to retrieve the fourth hen, now joined by the third hen. Swiftly, a resourceful young woman released the hens from their enclosure.

Amidst claims, justifications, and debates, an elderly woman known as Murthal, who struggled to maintain an upright posture, joined the chase. Nonetheless, the determined youths succeeded in securing one chicken. Soon, the four hens would be prepared and shared throughout the village. While disagreements and conflicts might arise, grudges were unheard of. The bond of community held sway, promoting mutual love, respect, and unity. These festive occasions allowed them to revel in each other's company.

The village elders had resolved to postpone hunting until the following day, as they had plans to venture deep into a distant forest. Our time in the village was also drawing to a close. As we readied to depart, a group of women approached each bearing a garland—a gesture of welcome, joy, and acceptance. Customarily, a monetary gift was exchanged. As I posed for a group photograph, a token of my appreciation for their hospitality and affection, I regretted not being able to extend my stay or converse in their language.

A Call to Deepen Understanding

The Gadaba festivals extend a compelling invitation to explore their realm. Captivating and illuminating, these celebrations beckon us to immerse ourselves in their world. At their essence lies resilience, unity, and an innate harmony with nature—qualities that transcend cultural borders. As we engage with their customs, we unravel the intricate threads of their tapestry, paying homage to a community that dances in sync with the rhythms of the land. This purposeful engagement through learning not only honors the Gadaba people and their festivals but also becomes a conduit for meaningful connection. Without delving into their culture, festivals, and faith, our understanding remains incomplete, hindering our ability to connect meaningfully with them, intercede, or advocate for them effectively.

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To delve deeper into the world of the Ollar Gadaba people, their beliefs, and practices, turn to "Trekking the Tribal Trail" by Philipose Vaidyar. This digital book offers an insightful journey into the vibrant embroidery of Gadaba culture and festivities.

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