Adivasi

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Adivasi is a term used to refer to the indigenous peoples of India. The word "Adivasi" is derived from the Hindi words "adi" (meaning original) and "vasi" (meaning inhabitant). Adivasis are considered to be the original inhabitants of the Indian subcontinent, predating the arrival of the Indo-Aryan and Dravidian populations.

Demographics

Adivasis constitute a significant portion of India's population, with a large number of them residing in the states of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, West Bengal, and the Northeastern states. They are officially recognized as Scheduled Tribes under the Indian Constitution.

Culture and Society

Adivasi culture is rich and diverse, with each tribe having its own distinct traditions, languages, and customs. Some of the prominent Adivasi tribes include the Santhal, Gond, Bhil, Munda, Oraon, and Khasi.

Language

Adivasis speak a variety of languages, many of which belong to the Austroasiatic, Dravidian, and Tibeto-Burman language families. Some of the widely spoken Adivasi languages include Santali, Gondi, and Ho.

Religion

Adivasi religious practices are diverse and often involve the worship of nature, ancestors, and a pantheon of deities. Many Adivasis follow Sarnaism, a nature-centric religion, while others have adopted Hinduism, Christianity, or Islam.

Economy

Traditionally, Adivasis have been engaged in agriculture, hunting, and gathering. However, with the advent of modernization and industrialization, many Adivasis have been displaced from their ancestral lands and have had to adapt to new forms of livelihood. Issues such as land alienation, poverty, and lack of access to education and healthcare are prevalent among Adivasi communities.

Challenges

Adivasis face numerous challenges, including social discrimination, economic exploitation, and political marginalization. Despite constitutional safeguards and affirmative action policies, Adivasis continue to struggle for their rights and recognition. Movements such as the Narmada Bachao Andolan and the Adivasi Gothra Mahasabha have been instrumental in advocating for Adivasi rights.

Related Pages

• Scheduled Tribes
• Santhal
• Gond
• Bhils
• Munda people
• Oraon
• Khasi people
• Sarnaism
• Narmada Bachao Andolan
• Adivasi Gothra Mahasabha

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