India is a myriad of cultures, ethnic groups, and regional identities. A large population of India comes under the category of “tribes” or indigenous people, each with its unique lineage, ethnicity, and traditions. Many of these 650+ tribes still wear traditional clothes and celebrate grand tribal festivals which are absolutely delightful and exotic. Many foreign tourists love to see the tribal festivals all over India to witness the diversity of India with their own eyes. Check out low last minute flights to India with Tripbeam to witness the cultural diversity of India this holiday season.
Here is a list of exotic tribal festivals of India that will give you a glimpse into the traditions, culture, and heritage of fantastic Indian tribes, who have somehow managed to stay close to their roots.
Hornbill Festival of Nagaland-
More than 2.5 lakh people and tourists get together to witness the Hornbill festival in the northeastern state of Nagaland. Many international tourists visit Kisama, just 10 km away from the state capital Kohima to take part in the mega cultural show every year. The grand fest is also known as the ‘festival of festivals’.
The Great Hornbill is a major part of Nagaland’s tribal traditions and is a state bird. The festival is held to pay tribute to the great warriors of 16 tribes from Nagaland. The festivities are facilitated by the State Tourism and Art and Culture Department.
The 10-day-long festival is celebrated in the month of December. The mega show displays the cultural heritage of the proud state of Nagaland where performers from the state get together to dance and display their cultural heritage. The display of handicrafts, sports, games, ceremonies and local delicacies gives a peek into the way of life of tribals.
Tribal populations from across the state prepare delicacies like chicken with bamboo shoots, pork delicacies, brown rice, various rice cakes, beef pickles, non-vegetarian chutneys, and pickles. Seeing traditional handicrafts like beaded jewelry, shawls, wood, silver, brass, ivory, and animal bones makes it a unique experience.
The festivities also include a Great Hornbill rock show where artists gather to deliver exciting rock performances in English. Foreign tourists can partake in the cultural bonanza by booking low-cost last minute flights to the North East region through Tripbeam.
Bhagoria tribal festival of Madhya Pradesh:
The Bhagoria or Bhangoria festivities are a part of the tradition of the Bhils, the Pateliya, and the Bhilalas tribal groups of the state of Madhya Pradesh. The tribal festival is celebrated in Jhabua and West Nimar areas. The 7-day festivities celebrate the end of the harvesting season in the region in the month of March just before Holi.
The ‘Bhagoria Haat’ is basically a market where young men and women clad in traditional attires get together to shop for the upcoming Holi festival. According to the legend, young people come together to celebrate and select their prospective bride or groom in the festival, and can freely elope with the chosen partner. Anyway, people view traditions like these as friendly banter, aiming to take a break from the tough farming life to indulge in shopping and fun activities.
Travelers from abroad love to witness the colorful tribal festivities of India. Get discounted business class flights from Tripbeam and arrive with comfort and luxury this festival season.
The spectacular Nongkrem dance in Meghalaya:
The lovely state of Meghalaya boasts diverse cultures and unique traditions. Furthermore, the state hosts the Nongkrem dance in November, a captivating event. Specifically, the Khasi tribe orchestrates this 5-day festival in Smit, a significant cultural hub for them.
The colorful festival is a celebration of harvest season where people get together to pay respects and pray to goddess Ka Blel Synshar asking for prosperity and a good harvest. Devotees offer animal sacrifices, particularly of goats and cocks, to the venerated Goddess.
Young girls and men actively perform the enchanting dance. Clad in yellow traditional attire called Jainsem, the young Khasi girls wear a silver crown-like headgear and flowers. Men belonging to the Khasi tribe also perform the dance. Holding a sword in one hand, and a traditional fan in the other, wearing dhotis and embroidered coats and turbans, men come together to skilfully perform the dance ceremony.
Become part of the unique festivities this year. Foreign nationals can get unlimited travel packages with low-cost flight tickets to India in November.
Baishagu Festival in Assam:
The northeastern state of Assam hosts fairs and festivals throughout the year to commemorate their roots, heritage, and spirit of togetherness. Additionally, one such important festival is Baishagu, where the Bodo tribes of Assam come together to celebrate the seasonal festival.
The fest showcases countless rituals like worship of Gods, cows, ancestors, etc. Tribals mainly pray to Lord Shiva or Bathou by offering chicken and Zou or rice beer. The main event is the Bagarumba dance, also known as the butterfly dance. The lovely girls clad in traditional clothing (Dokhnas, Chaddar, and Jhumra) dance by outstretching their arms while wearing shawls, mimicking the act of spreading wings, hence the name, the butterfly dance.
Locals also play traditional instruments like the Serja, Sifung, Tharka, and Khum and utter ‘bagurumba hay bagurumba’, which is a tribute to their supreme God Bathou. The merriment and celebrations give a peek into the customs and traditions of the Bodo tribe.
Conclusion
At the end of the harvesting season, people, especially in tribal communities, actively celebrate festivals, praying to Gods for bumper harvests and prosperity. It is an opportune time for a tourist from abroad to visit India. Winter sees a lot of tribal fests and festivals in India. Check last minute flights to India this winter to become part of the cultural extravaganza of indigenous populations.
According to Mark Twain, “India is the cradle of the human race”. The historic diversity in India is its strength. Many foreign tourists and even Indian nationals love to explore the many facets of reality and the enigma that is India! Visit India this holiday season and see the age-old traditions in full display through a number of exotic tribal festivals.