Noteworthy Names: The Top 10 Khonds People You Should Know

Khonds is an ethnic group predominantly residing in the states of Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana in India. Known for their rich cultural heritage and traditional practices, the Khonds have produced many notable individuals who have achieved fame in various fields. From actors to athletes, here are 10 popular celebrities and notable people from the Khonds ethnicity:

• Birendra Lakra: A professional field hockey player who represented India at the Olympics and other international tournaments, Lakra hails from Khuntapali village in Odisha.
• Jhulan Goswami: Considered one of the greatest female cricketers in the world, Goswami, a fast bowler, was born in Chakradharpur, Jharkhand, and belongs to the Khond tribe.
• Siddhant Mohapatra: A prominent actor in Odia cinema, Mohapatra was born in the Khordha district of Odisha and has acted in numerous successful films.
• Santu Mondal: This renowned artist from West Bengal belongs to the Khond tribe and is known for his intricate and colorful terracotta sculptures.
• Biramitrapur Ananda Rao: An eminent freedom fighter who actively fought against British rule in India, Rao hailed from the Khond tribal community in Odisha.
• Shyamanand Jalan: A noted Indian classical vocalist, Jalan is a recipient of the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and was born into a Khond family in Odisha.
• Anand Baisoya: An accomplished archer, Baisoya is a silver medalist in the Asian Archery Grand Prix and a member of the Khond community from Odisha.
• Sagaria Jaipal Singh Mundari: This renowned Khond poet and social activist is known for his contribution to the Mundari language and his efforts in promoting tribal rights.
• Mandakini Biswal: A former Indian sprinter, Biswal represented the country at the Olympic Games and Commonwealth Games, and she belongs to the Khond ethnic group in Odisha.
• Aparajita Sarangi: A popular politician and bureaucrat, Sarangi has served as an Member of Parliament and is a prominent figure in Odisha politics. She is from the Khond community.

These individuals from the Khonds ethnicity have not only brought pride to their community but have also made significant contributions in their respective fields, leaving an indelible mark on the world stage.

Khonds’s Three Pinnacle Historical Inheritances

The Khonds community is an indigenous tribe living in the eastern states of India, primarily in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh. The Khonds have a rich cultural heritage and a deeply rooted history that spans centuries. Here, we explore three of the most well-known historical inheritances associated with the Khonds heritage:

• The Belief in Nature: The Khonds have a strong connection with nature and believe in its power and influence. They worship various natural elements such as the sun, moon, rivers, mountains, and forests. The Khonds believe that these elements have divine qualities and play a significant role in their lives. They perform rituals and ceremonies to appease and seek blessings from these natural deities, reflecting their deep respect and reverence for the environment.
• The Concept of Village Republics: Historically, the Khonds had a unique system of self-governance known as the village republics. Each village had its own council and administration that made decisions collectively for the welfare of the community. The village heads, known as Dharas, were responsible for maintaining order, resolving disputes, and managing local affairs. This democratic structure showcased the Khonds’ egalitarian values and their commitment to maintaining harmony and justice within their society.
• The Practice of Human Sacrifice: In the past, the Khonds were infamous for their practice of human sacrifice. This practice, known as Meriah, involved offering a human sacrifice to their goddess, Dharani Penu. The sacrifice was performed to ensure a good harvest and prosperity for the community. While this practice is thankfully no longer prevalent today, it remains a significant part of the Khonds’ historical inheritance and is a testament to their unique rituals and customs.

The Khonds’ cultural heritage is a blend of various traditions, beliefs, and rituals that have been passed down through generations. Their distinct way of life and deeply rooted practices continue to shape their identity and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of India’s diverse cultural landscape.

Factsheet About Khonds People

References to the Khonds Ethnic Group

References and resources to dig deeper about the Khonds ethnic group:

• “The Khonds: An Ethnographic Survey” by Trilochan Mohanty – This book provides a comprehensive ethnographic survey of the Khond people, covering various aspects of their society, culture, and history. It offers insights into their social organization, religious beliefs, economic activities, and political systems.
• “The Khonds: A Primitive Indian Tribe” by Nihar Ranjan Patnaik – This book delves into the lifestyle and customs of the Khonds, exploring their traditional practices, rituals, and festivals. It includes valuable information on their ecological knowledge, subsistence patterns, and dietary habits.
• “Primitive Tribes in Contemporary India: Concept, Ethnography and Demography” edited by Jayant Sarkar and Madhumala Chattopadhyay – This collection of essays includes a chapter dedicated to the Khonds. It examines their historical background, cultural traditions, and the challenges they face in the modern world.

In addition to these books, several academic articles and research papers can provide further information on the Khonds:

• “Sustainable Development of Vulnerable Tribal Groups in Odisha, Eastern Ghats, India” by Suchitra Mahapatra – This research paper explores the sustainable development prospects of the Khond and other vulnerable tribal groups in the Eastern Ghats region. It discusses issues like land alienation, livelihood security, and empowerment.
• “Traditional Knowledge Systems and Practices Among the Khonds of Eastern India” by Kailash Chandra Dash and Annabel Erulkar – This article focuses on the traditional knowledge systems and practices of the Khonds, with a particular emphasis on their ecological knowledge and healing traditions.
• “Forest Management in Khond Tribe in Eastern Ghats, Odisha” by Charudutta Mishra and Ramachandra Naik – This research paper examines the role of the Khonds in forest management and conservation. It sheds light on their intimate relationship with forests and their efforts to protect and sustainably use natural resources.

These resources provide valuable insights into the history, culture, and current challenges faced by the Khonds ethnic group. They offer a deeper understanding of their traditional practices, social organization, and ecological knowledge, which are crucial in preserving their unique identity and promoting sustainable development in their communities.

Explore other famous people with Afro-Brazilians, Bahnar and Bimanese roots, showcasing the diversity of ethnic backgrounds. Delving into the lives of notable figures from various ethnic backgrounds associated with these Khonds roots reveals the intricate web of connections between global cultures and their significant contributions to the world.

We have reached the end of our exploration into the extraordinary lives of prominent Khonds. We hope this journey has been enlightening and inspiring.