Kishore Das
In Bonda society women are highly respected and valued. They are most often the final decision makers within the family, even though the community is neither matriarchal nor matrilocal. This is not only due to their greater participation in and contribution to daily economic activities but also related to a number of deeply rooted Bonda cultural practices and customs. The Bonda tribeswoman is seen in traditional dress with beaded cap, large earrings and metal necklaces pounding grains.
The Muria tribe
Tribe Bonda
Geography East India
State Odisha
Bondas are believed to be part of the first wave of migration out of Africa about 60,000 years ago. They are said to be the first forest settlers in India. The Bondas have retained their identity and culture despite external interventions over the years. Based mostly in Malkangiri district of southwestern Odisha, the Bondas are forest dwellers who continue forage for food in the wild.
