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 Culture of South Garo Hills District is of a tribal nature as the district is principally inhabited by the Garo Tribe. Culture of South Garo Hills District is characterized by several features associated with the Garos. Like for instance, their traditional political setup, social institutions, marriage systems, dialects, inheritance of properties, religion and beliefs. Songs, dances and music are an integral part of the traditional religious functions and ceremonies of the Garo people.
Garos have a matrilineal society where children adopt their mother's clan. Interestingly, much of Garo religious practices relate to nature. In all religious ceremonies, sacrifices were essential for the propitiation of the spirits. Garo society is entirely casteless. Garo tribe is divided into five exogamous divisions called Chatchis (sometimes rendered as Katchis). Two of these are relatively unimportant in that they include an insubstantial part of the population. The important ones are the Chatchis named Marak, Momin and Sangma. The initiative in any move towards marriage is usually taken by the bride's family, perhaps even by the girl herself. In the rural areas, people still prefer their old-fashioned houses which are comparatively easy and quick to erect.
The Garos normally do not use many ornaments. The common ones are strings of beads and earrings worn both by men and women. Both men and women prefer dark coloured clothes, either black or dark blue, and men wear shorts. Turbans are generally worn by them. There are no organized games as such among the Garos. However, games are generally played occasionally. Jumping contests and other competitions are conducted as tests of strength. The young males, members of the Nokpantes may organize themselves into groups and engage in such contests. Communal fishing activities are also organized. The common and regular festivities are, of course, those connected with agricultural operations. Greatest among Garo festivals is the Wangala which is more a celebration of thanksgiving after harvest. There is no fixed date for the celebration; this varying from village to village, but usually, Wangala is celebrated in October. Preparations take place well before the celebration date. Colourful Wangala dance adds charm to the entire celebration. In this dance both men and women take part.
(Last Updated on : 10-03-2014)
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