Dandami Maria Tribe (Bison Horn Maria / Khalpati Maria)

Context

• The Bison Horn Maria dance of the Dandami Maria tribe of Bastar, Chhattisgarh, has recently gained attention for its resilience and continued cultural vitality despite modern influences.

Who Are the Dandami Maria?

• A tribal community belonging to the Gond (Koytorias) ethnic group.
• Also called:
• Bison Horn Maria (due to horn-shaped ceremonial headgear)
• Khalpati Maria
• Part of one of the oldest indigenous traditions of Central India, with deep forest-based cultural practices.

Origin & Ethnic Background

• Trace lineage to the ancient Gondwana region, historically spread across central India.
• Identify as part of the Gond tribal tradition, known for:
• Close relationship with forests
• Rich oral heritage
• Distinct ritualistic and folk practices
• Language:
• Primarily speak Dandami Maria, a Dravidian oral language
• Many also use Gondi dialects for inter-tribal communication

Habitat & Distribution

• Predominantly inhabit Bastar region, southern Chhattisgarh, including:
• Darbha, Tokapal, Lohandiguda, Dantewada
• Settlements are integrated within dense forests, shaping:
• Subsistence economy
• Ritual and festival calendar
• Social structure

Livelihood

• Primarily agricultural, with supplemental income from:
• Hunting and fishing
• Collection of minor forest produce
• Strong reliance on forests fosters ecological knowledge and conservation practices.

Key Cultural Features

1. Bison Horn Maria Dance

• Signature cultural expression; performed during:
• Religious festivals
• Ceremonial occasions
• Community celebrations
• Men’s costume:
• Bamboo horn-shaped headgear adorned with bison/cattle horns, feathers, cowries, and cloth strips
• Bead necklaces and ankle bells
• Women’s costume:
• Handwoven saris
• Heavy silver and brass ornaments
• Coin ornaments and ceremonial crowns
• Symbolism:
• Reflects valor, unity, and harmony with nature
• Reinforces community identity

2. Social Institutions

• Ghotul (youth dormitory):
• Central to socialisation, skill-building, and transmission of cultural norms
• Facilitates education in folk music, dance, and tribal ethics
• Social norms:
• Divorce and widow remarriage are permitted, reflecting flexibility and egalitarianism

3. Material & Ritual Culture

• Distinctive hairstyles, ornaments, and ceremonial objects (e.g., tobacco boxes, combs)
• Functional and symbolic significance in daily and ritual life

Cultural Significance

• The tribe represents a living heritage of India’s tribal culture, showcasing:
• Survival of ancient rituals and folk traditions
• Intergenerational transmission of knowledge
• Harmony between humans and forest ecosystems
• Highlights the diversity within Gond tribes and broader tribal art forms of India