Oraons are some of the most ancient indigenous community living in Bangladesh as well as in India. They are scattered in some districts of the plain areas in the whole country like- Dinajpur, Bogra, Chapai Nawabganj, Nilphamari amd so on mainly residing in Varendra region. Dravid-speaking Kurukha race is said to be the ancestors of oraon people.
They are worshippers of nature and sun is the supreme god of them. They celebrate 'Denda Kanta' in the name of the sun. Having tattoos before the adult age is somehow mandatory for them religiously and spiritually. So, tattoo all over the body is noticed.
Like all other indigenous groups, they enjoy their separate food habits, cultures, clothing etc. They take pleasure in having vegetables, different kinds of meats including the staple food rice. Both the men and women are fond of ornaments. They make their own ornaments and decorate themselves heavily on the festivals. Male used to wear 'nengtis', only a piece of cloth twriled on waist but now they also wear dhutis, shirts-pants,kamiz etc.
They follow their own Panches in terms of regulations. Oraons are very fond of music. They make their own musical instruments too. It has a great influence on their own culture. The clay walled houses of Oraons are painted with bright colors having small highted doors which is a unique way of expressing their traditions and cultures.
Written by Priase Chakma
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