Amit M Patel
Primarily forest dwellers, the Bondas used to hunt and forage for food in the wild. Researchers say the Bondas had fewer livelihood options as they were reluctant to work in plains. Depleting forest cover has affected their self-sufficient life. Bondas now practice shifting agriculture in the hills not only for consumption, but also to sell the produce in the markets. Since Bonda women hunt and forage for food in the forest it is thought that these ornaments have a function of protecting them from injuries and attacks by wild animals.
The Bonda 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.
