Echoes of the sacred hills

The rich historical and cultural significance of Onakadelli, located in the Koraput district of Odisha, India, is derived from the customs of the native tribes who have lived in the area for many years. A timeless tale that has been tolerated through the ages is the one about the sacred connection—one based on resilience and reverence—between the Dongria Kondh tribe and the Niyamgiri hills.

The story goes that long ago, a small boy named the Niyam Raja, a god thought to reside in the Niyamgiri hills, made his way to Earth. He wandered through the forests, teaching the Dongria Kondh people the sacred laws of nature and the importance of living in harmony with the land. The Dongria Kondh promised to remain faithful to the Niyam Raja in exchange for his protection and guidance, ensuring that the hills' natural resources would be preserved for the benefit of future generations.

This spiritual connection developed into a cultural identity over the ages, influencing the Dongria Kondh community's way of life. The Niyamgiri hills were worshipped as their sacred home, with its peaks considered as symbols of divine power and its peaceful forests providing comfort in both happy and sad times.

The peacefulness of the Niyamgiri hills, however, has recently been endangered by the possibility of extensive mining operations by global companies looking to take advantage of its abundant mineral resources. A historic battle was fought by the Dongria Kondh to protect the Niyamgiri hills from encroachment. They were fiercely protective of their ancestral land and deeply committed to preserving their cultural heritage.

Journeying with the Dongria Kondh of Onakadelli

The Dongria Kondh are not merely a tribe living in the lush surroundings of Onakadelli, Odisha, India; rather, they are the guardians of a long-lost way of life that is entwined with the Niyamgiri hills. For many generations, the Dongria Kondh have protected their distinct cultural legacy through a profound connection to their ancestral lands and a deep reverence for the natural world. Their traditions, rituals, and oral histories serve as a testament to their resilience in the face of modernisation, offering a glimpse into a world where harmony with the environment is paramount.

The Dongria Kondh have created a sustainable way of life centred on hunting, fishing, and gathering because they live in intimate harmony with the natural world. They consider themselves the guardians of this holy land and have great reverence for the Niyam Raja, the god thought to reside in the Niyamgiri hills. The Dongria Kondh welcome guests to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of their culture and traditions through their colourful costumes, lively festivals, and intricate handicrafts. These practices help them celebrate their identity and reaffirm their connection to their ancestral roots.