Ho tribe is mainly concentrated in the West Bengal state of India. Apart from this region, the Ho people also reside in the earlier Singhbhum district of Jharkhand. They are renowned for their simple, amiable and other philanthropic qualities. In the earlier period, the Ho people were far-famed for their fighting skills and acumen. The Hos secured their position by winning different wars against the Rajas of Mayurbhanj district and Chota Nagpur. Ho tribal group is also known by alternative names like Bihar Ho tribes or Lanka Kol. The word `Ho` generally connotes man. Their language is known as Ho language that is of Austroasiatic language family.
Features of Ho Tribe
The people of this tribe of West Bengal maintain their heritage of tradition and ethnicity, leaving a mark of their exclusivity. As far as the physical statures of these people are concerned, they are quite sturdy and strong, making them to stand apart from other tribal communities who are thronging the region. Ho people have sharp intelligence and courage which are evident in their lifestyle.
Lifestyle of Ho Tribe
Ho tribal people are mainly farmers. They build their houses with mud and straw. Their roofs are thatched roofs. They design their simple houses by creating brilliant designs on the walls. The men and women of this community wear very minimal dress. The women prefer to wear tribal jewelleries.
Festivals of Ho Tribe
Ho cultural exuberance of this tribal community is explicit in diverse festivals, fairs customs and rituals. Dancing and singing too are part and parcel of these festival festivities. Special drinks and foods are being served which is a must for these celebrations. The Ho tribal people use their provisions of rice in order to make a special beer mainly during festival seasons. The Ho people celebrate different festivals along with Mage Porob, which is a dancing festival. This is celebrated in the month of Magh. In this festival, people from other villages come and participate in the dance programme. They also celebrate Salui Puja, Makar Sankranti, Sohrai, Karama and Akshay Tritiya.
Beliefs and Religion of Ho Tribe
The Ho people are religious minded. They believe in different gods and goddesses. Their religion to some extent is similar to some other tribes of West Bengal like Mundas, Oraons, Santals etc. Their supreme deity is Sin Bonga. Apart from paying reverence to this deity, they also believe in Hindu gods and goddesses. Deuri, their village priest performs their religious rituals. These people also believe in evil spirits and `Deona` is employed to keep the evil spirits at bay.
