Abhuj Maria

Predominantly found in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh, the Abhuj Maria tribes are one of the major sub-castes of the Gonds. Known with various names such as Abudjamadis, Abujmariya and Hill Maria, these tribes are mainly live in the deep interiors of forests in Narayanpur Tehsil of Bastar districts. Abhuj Marias speak a Dravidian language called Abujmaria. The 1,500 sq miles of lush green and dense forest area where these unique tribes are inhabited is known as the Abhuj Maria region. The Abhuj Marias love to live in isolation and avoid intermingling with outsiders. It's believed that the Abhuj Marias could shoot down the strangers with their arrows and so are very feared by the outsiders.

Since they are living in isolation with the outside world, their way of living, customs, traditions and moral values has well been retained and they are one of very few tribal groups of India living still practicing their unique and traditional way of life. Drinking liquor is very common among men and women. The Abhuj Maria are mainly semi-nomadic farmers practicing shifting cultivation method of agriculture. After cultivating an area for two to three years, they abandon the land and move to a much fertile location. They also do not plough the earth, as it would mean inflicting pain on her body. Pointed wood pieces are used for piercing for cultivation and stone implements are used for harvesting produce. The primary activities of Abhuj Marias are agriculture, hunting, and gathering the fruits of the forests. They hunt with spears and arrows, and enjoy eating the roasted meat of the hunted animal. They also protect the tigers from poachers, which is highly honored and feared among these tribals. Although the Hill Marias are regarded as the less civilized than other sub-castes of Gond, they far surpass the others in strength and ability. Also a strong sense of community feeling exists between them and equality and brotherhood are highly valued principles among these tribes.

Like Gonds, they also practice Ghotul System for marriages. Divorces and remarriages are common but adultery is not allowed. Marriages amongst the blood relations including brothers and sisters are common. As far as their dress is concerned, both men and women use only a piece of fabric and don't cover their body completely. Women of the Abhuj Marias love to wear several iron rings, sometimes as many as 20 round their necks. The Abhuj Marias worship the local village deity 'Kaksar' and dance for blessings for reaping a good harvest. Kaksar is a group dance, performed by young boys and girls, dressed in their best.