Vivek Kumar Ph.D. Research Scholar, Department of Anthropology and Tribal Studies, Central University of Jharkhand, Ranchi 835222, Jharkhand, India
Mahendra Kumar Jaiswal Ph.D. Research Scholar, Department of Anthropology, Mahatma Gandhi Antarrashtriya Hindi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Wardha 442001, Maharashtra, India
Address for correspondence: Vivek Kumar, Ph.D. Research Scholar, Department of Anthropology and Tribal Studies, Central University of Jharkhand, Ranchi 835222, Jharkhand, India E-mail: vivekanthro18@gmail.com
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Mahendra Kumar Jaiswal, Vivek Kumar. Totemic Tradition and Identity of Korku Tribe: An Anthropological Perspective. Ind J Res Anthropol 2024;10(1):55-62.
Timeline
Received : March 16, 2024
Accepted : June 25, 2024
Published : June 30, 2024
Abstract
Tribal totemism is a cultural phenomenon that is deeply rooted in their societies. It encompasses complex symbolic systems where specific animals, plants, or natural elements serve as emblems representing ancestral connection, identity, and spiritual beliefs. Totems are revered as spiritual entities, representing a connection to ancestry, tradition, and the natural world. The choice of totem is typically rooted in mythological stories or historical events, and it serves as a symbol of identity, kinship, and shared values within the tribal communities. Totem is given special importance in the Korku tribe. Korku always remains alert and devoted to their totems. The Korku tribe believes that their origin is based on a particular totem, so they think that totem has a wonderful power that protects and warns them in times of trouble. Even a specific message associated with a totem may be a premonition of some event. The Korku people consider that the totem is inhabited by a supernatural power that controls their social life. In Korku society, women often have totem symbols tattooed on different parts of their body, especially on their hands. Korku follows all the rules and prohibitions related to his totem very sincerely. Like many other tribes, Korku also has beliefs related to the origin of the totem.
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Data Sharing Statement
There are no additional data available. All raw data and code are available upon request.
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Author Contributions
All authors contributed significantly to the work and approve its publication.
Ethics Declaration
This article does not involve any human or animal subjects, and therefore does not require ethics approval.
Acknowledgements
We would like to express our gratitude to the patients, their families, and all those who have contributed to this study.
Conflicts of Interest
No conflicts of interest in this work.
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Mahendra Kumar Jaiswal, Vivek Kumar. Totemic Tradition and Identity of Korku Tribe: An Anthropological Perspective. Ind J Res Anthropol 2024;10(1):55-62.
This license enables
reusers to distribute, remix, adapt, and build upon the material in any medium
or format for noncommercial purposes only, and only so long as attribution is
given to the creator.
This license enables
reusers to distribute, remix, adapt, and build upon the material in any medium
or format for noncommercial purposes only, and only so long as attribution is
given to the creator.