Santhals

The Santhal people are an Austroasiatic ethnic group native to the eastern Indian subcontinent. They are primarily located in the states of Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha, with smaller populations in Bihar and Assam. The Santhals are one of the largest tribal communities in India. Their language, Santali, is written in the Ol Chiki script, which was developed by Pandit Raghunath Murmu.

Historically, the Santhals have a rich cultural heritage, often characterized by their close connection to nature, traditional music, dance, and art forms. Their social structure is organized around clans and villages, with a strong emphasis on community cooperation and customary laws. Santhal society has a history of social and political movements, notably the Santhal Rebellion of 1855-1856 against British colonial rule and exploitative landlords.

The economy of the Santhals traditionally relied on agriculture, hunting, and gathering. In contemporary times, many Santhals are engaged in agriculture, agricultural labor, and various forms of wage labor in urban and rural areas. Their religious beliefs often incorporate elements of animism and reverence for nature, alongside influences from Hinduism and Christianity in some communities. The Santhal community has made significant contributions to the cultural landscape of India, and efforts continue to preserve and promote their unique traditions and language.