The Mankidia tribe of Odisha is among the lesser-known indigenous communities whose way of life continues to echo with the rhythms of the forest. Mostly residing in the districts of Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, and Sundargarh, the Mankidias are classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG). Their story is one of deep connection with nature, resilience in the face of change, and the quiet preservation of traditions that have endured for generations.
The name “Mankidia” itself is linked to their traditional occupation—rope making from the bark of the Siali creeper and other forest products. Their craftsmanship, though simple in tools, is rich in knowledge passed down orally. The ropes they weave are not just utilitarian objects but symbols of how the community draws sustenance and identity from the forest. The men often venture deep into the woods to collect raw materials while the women skillfully craft them into ropes and nets, which are exchanged in local markets for rice, salt, and other necessities.
Their semi-nomadic lifestyle adds another layer of uniqueness. Unlike many settled farming tribes, the Mankidias move from place to place within the forest, setting up temporary huts made of sal leaves and bamboo. This mobility reflects their dependence on shifting resources and also their ability to adapt to nature’s unpredictability. Yet, it also makes them vulnerable, as modern policies, shrinking forest cover, and wildlife sanctuaries increasingly restrict their access to traditional lands.
Hunting once formed a vital part of their subsistence, particularly with the use of ropes and nets to trap small animals. However, restrictions on hunting and dwindling wildlife populations have reduced these practices, pushing the community further toward forest gathering and occasional wage labor. Despite these hardships, the Mankidias carry a sense of dignity in their relationship with the forest, seeing it not merely as a resource but as a living guardian.
Culturally, the tribe is rich in oral traditions. Songs and stories told around evening fires speak of their ancestors, forest spirits, and the balance between humans and nature. Their rituals, though modest, are deeply spiritual, centered on appeasing deities for protection, health, and good harvests. The community celebrates its identity quietly, with rhythms of drums, dances, and collective gatherings.
Today, the Mankidias stand at a delicate juncture. While development programs aim to uplift them through education, healthcare, and livelihood schemes, there remains a risk of eroding their distinct culture. The challenge lies in ensuring their integration with modern opportunities without uprooting the essence of their identity. The story of the Mankidias is not just about survival; it is about how one of Odisha’s most vulnerable tribes continues to uphold a harmonious bond with the forest, reminding us of the fragile beauty of coexistence.
