Historical root and cultural context of Bhumij Tribal community in West Bengal and Jharkhand: An Ethnographic study

Abstract

Abstract: The Bhumij tribes have a traditional identity with certain territories of community living, especially in West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Odisha. As per the 2011 census report, the total Bhumij population is 911,349. This study has been focused on the origin, historical roots, and cultural context of the Bhumij community. The study arises from the fact that Bhumij tradition and culture need to be preserved. Bhumij are highly influenced by Hindu culture and rituals, and their traditional culture has been rapidly changed. This study explores the Bhumijs’ dress code, food habits, birth, marriage, and death, as well as their religious beliefs and practices. This study was conducted in six districts in West Bengal and Jharkhand. The researcher applied the ethnographic method and used primary and secondary both sources of data. For the collection of data, participatory observation, interviews, and household surveys were used. Bhumijs’ are the fourth largest tribal community in West Bengal, but the acculturation process has been highly prevalent in Bhumij society. Due to the effects of acculturation, they have rapidly lost their own traditional culture and language.