Salient Features of Society of Odisha and Its Diversity

Odisha Manthan

Introduction

Odisha, located on the eastern coast of India, has a society that reflects cultural richness, social harmony, and historical continuity. The society of Odisha is known for its diversity, inclusiveness, and deep-rooted traditions, balanced with modern influences. From tribal communities in hilly regions to urban centres in coastal areas, Odisha represents a miniature India with unity in diversity.

Salient Features of the Society of Odisha

  1. Historical Continuity and Cultural Heritage

    • Odisha’s society has evolved from ancient times—from the Kalinga and Utkala empires to the modern state.
    • Its cultural ethos is deeply influenced by Jainism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and tribal traditions.

  2. Predominantly Rural Society

    • About 83% of Odisha’s population resides in villages (as per 2011 Census).
    • The rural society is largely agrarian, with traditional occupations such as farming, handicrafts, and fishing.

  3. Tribal Dominance in Certain Regions

    • Odisha is home to 62 distinct tribal communities, including 13 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).
    • Tribes like Kondh, Saora, Juang, Bonda, Dongria Kondh, and Lanjia Saora dominate the hilly and forested regions.
    • Tribal societies maintain a close connection with nature and have unique customs, languages, and belief systems.

  4. Religious Diversity and Spiritualism

    • Hinduism is the major religion, with Jagannath Cult at its core.
    • Other religions include Christianity, Islam, Jainism, and Buddhism.
    • Jagannath Temple of Puri, Lingaraja Temple (Bhubaneswar), and Sun Temple (Konark) represent Odisha’s spiritual essence.

  5. Linguistic Unity with Regional Variations

    • Odia is the state language and is spoken by the majority.
    • Regional dialects like Sambalpuri, Kosli, Desiya, Kui, and tribal languages are spoken in various areas.

  6. Social Stratification and Caste Composition

    • Odisha’s society follows a caste-based hierarchical structure, though social mobility has increased post-independence.
    • There is a significant population of Scheduled Castes (17.13%) and Scheduled Tribes (22.85%).

  7. Matriarchal and Patriarchal Influences

    • Tribal societies like the Bondas follow matriarchal traditions.
    • In mainstream Odia society, patriarchy dominates, although women’s participation in society has increased.

  8. Rich Folk Traditions and Festivals

    • Odisha’s society celebrates traditional festivals like Rath Yatra, Durga Puja, Nuakhai, Makar Sankranti, Chhau Festival, and Raja Parba.
    • Folk dances such as Gotipua, Sambalpuri, and Chhau reflect local traditions.

  9. Handicrafts and Cottage Industries

    • Traditional crafts like Pattachitra painting, Applique work (Pipili), Silver Filigree (Cuttack), Dhokra art, and Stone carving (Puri) are integral to Odia society.
    • These crafts are not just occupational activities, but also a symbol of identity and cultural expression.

  10. Social Movements and Reforms

    • Odisha has witnessed social reform movements aimed at uplifting backward classes, tribal welfare, and women empowerment.
    • Praja Mandal movements, Bhubaneswar Conference 1936, and land reforms post-independence have shaped its social structure.

Diversity of Odisha

Odisha’s diversity is visible in its ethnic groups, languages, religions, festivals, customs, and geography. It reflects the idea of unity in diversity.

  1. Ethnic Diversity

    • Odisha is home to indigenous tribes, castes, and communities, contributing to its multi-ethnic composition.
    • Major groups include Adivasis (STs), Dalits (SCs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), and General castes.

  2. Linguistic Diversity

    • Apart from Odia, dialects like Sambalpuri, Kosli, Kotia, Kui, and Kuvi are spoken.
    • Tribal languages are rich and diverse—over 20 tribal languages are still prevalent in Odisha’s tribal belts.

  3. Religious Diversity

    • Majority religion: Hinduism (~94%).
    • Other religious minorities include Muslims (2.2%), Christians (2.77%), Buddhists, and Jains.
    • The Jagannath Cult promotes syncretic traditions, embracing all sections of society.

  4. Regional Diversity

    • Coastal Odisha: Predominantly agrarian, urban, and influenced by Jagannath culture.
    • Western Odisha: Kosli cultural identity, celebrates Nuakhai, has distinct dialects and customs.
    • Southern Odisha: Rich in tribal traditions, forests, and indigenous crafts.
    • Northern Odisha: Industrially active, diverse due to migrant communities.

  5. Cultural Diversity

    • Dance and Music: Odissi dance, Gotipua, Chhau, Danda Nata, Sambalpuri folk.
    • Art and Crafts: Stone carving, Pattachitra, Applique work, and Terracotta.
    • Cuisines: Rasagola (Puri), Pakhala Bhata, Dalma, and tribal food varieties like Mandia Pej (Ragi drink).

  6. Festival Diversity

    • Pan-Odisha festivals: Rath Yatra, Durga Puja, Diwali.
    • Regional festivals: Nuakhai (Western Odisha), Maghe Parab (tribes), Chaitra Parab, Bija Pandu (tribal festivals).

  7. Occupational Diversity

    • Coastal areas: Agriculture, fishing, handicrafts.
    • Western Odisha: Agriculture, textiles (Sambalpuri handloom).
    • Mining and industry in Angul, Jharsuguda, Keonjhar, and Sundargarh.
    • Urban centres like Bhubaneswar: Education, IT, tourism.

  8. Dress and Ornaments

    • Traditional attire: Sambalpuri sarees, Berhampuri silk, Kotpad tribal fabrics.
    • Ornaments: Filigree silver jewelry (Cuttack), tribal ornaments made from beads, bamboo, and seeds.

Challenges to Odisha’s Social Harmony and Diversity

Government Initiatives to Promote Social Harmony

Conclusion

The society and diversity of Odisha is its strength and uniqueness. It reflects a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, where tribal customs, mainstream Hindu practices, and modern lifestyles coexist. Preserving Odisha’s plurality while addressing social inequalities is key to fostering inclusive development and ensuring social justice.

As Odisha marches towards modernity, its diverse heritage and resilient society remain a source of identity and pride, offering lessons in unity in diversity.
 

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