Juang Majanga/Mandaghar (Dormitory): A Cultural and Economic Integration of the Tribal Community

Abstract

The Juangs are one of the vulnerable populations inhabiting the Gonasika hills of Odisha state. Owing to the impact of modernisation, the Juangs are expanding (highly rich) into different cultural activities from the mainstream society. They practice unique traditionsas well as retain social, cultural, economic and political characteristics that are distinct from those of the other dominant societies in other parts of the state. To preserve their cultural identities, the Juangs have been allowed to have an institution in accordance with their traditional customary law and practices. They have their own youth dormitory system called majanga; this traditional institution has helped in the preservation of their culture and customs and also in the maintenance of their separate identity. This paper is focused on the Juang majanga system and on grain bank-storing practices, which is anintegral part of their cultural and economic domain.