The Gonds of Andhra Pradesh: Tradition and Change in an Indian Tribe

The Gonds are a prominent tribal population in India, numbering over four million and extending over a large part of the Deccan. Christoph von Fürer-Haimendorf first began studying them in the late 1970s and spent three years in their villages. This book provides an intimate picture of the life of a specific village community and traces the fates of individual men and women over a long stretch of time. It also focuses on the analysis of the process of social change forced upon the Gonds by settlers from outside.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 580 pages
Publication date: 01 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Gonds, a group of tribal populations in India, hold immense numerical strength and historical significance. In the late 1970s, their population exceeded four million, spanning a significant portion of the Deccan region. They are a prominent element in the intricate ethnic tapestry of the area where Dravidian and Indo-Aryan populations overlap and intermingle.

Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Gond communities in the former Hyderabad State (now Andhra Pradesh) maintained their traditional way of life. Feudal chiefs continued to serve as tribal heads, while hereditary bards preserved a rich collection of myths and epic tales. It was during this period that Christoph von Fürer-Haimendorf initiated his study of the Gonds, dedicating three years to immersing himself in their villages. During his observations, he witnessed the encroachment of more advanced Hindu populations into their habitat, posing a threat to their way of life.

Over the course of thirty years, the author made numerous visits to the Gond region, conducting a thorough re-study of social and economic developments in the villages he had known intimately. His extensive familiarity with individual Gonds allowed him to paint an intimate portrait of the life of a specific village community and trace the trajectories of individual men and women over an extended period. While his earlier book, "The Raj Gonds of Adilabad: Myth and Ritual," primarily focused on Gond mythology and ritual practices, the present volume delves deeper into the analysis of social forces at play.

The Gonds, known for their resilience and adaptability, have faced numerous challenges throughout history. Despite the encroachment of modern society, they have managed to preserve their distinct cultural identity and traditions. The author's study provides valuable insights into the lives of the Gonds, shedding light on their social structures, economic practices, and religious beliefs. It also highlights the ongoing struggles they face in preserving their ancestral land and maintaining their way of life in the face of external pressures.

In conclusion, the Gonds are a remarkable group of tribal populations in India, with a rich history and a strong presence in the Deccan region. Their story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of indigenous communities, and their struggle to preserve their cultural identity is a reminder of the importance of respecting and preserving diverse cultures and traditions.

Weight: 1100g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032156590