The state of Orissa of India is one of the states of Indian Territory, which provides shelter to quite a large number of tribal populace. Paroja is quite significant amongst them. These Paroja tribes are noted for the cultural and social heritage that they have maintained over the years. No external influences have been able to bring about any change in their characteristics.
As per the observation of the eminent anthropologists of India, maximum of these Paroja tribes are concentrated in various regions of the state including Jeypore, Kundali, Nandapur, Jeypore. Umeros Paroja tribes are also found in Koraput district. However, the people also call these paroja in different names like Paraja or Parja.
Etymologically, the word has been taken from another word in Sanskrit, namely, Parja which means a subject.
There is a popular saying about the origination of these Paroja tribal communities. These Paroja tribes have got their ancestral home in the Baster region, from where they have came down. Nowadays these {Paroja tribes are sharing space with all the other tribes like Gadaba, Paik, Mali. Not only these Paroja tribes live together, they maintain a very cordial relation with these tribes.
What is also interesting is that these Paroja tribes have a belief on several 'totemistic septs'. These include Bagh (Tiger), Kachhim (Tortoise), Bokda (Boat) etc. The practice is prevalent where the Paroja tribes are being prohibited from murdering or giving about any kind of harm or even devoured. In fact these Paroja tribal communities follow quite a few rites and rituals thus showing respect to the clan totems.
The cultural exuberance is rightly been depicted in the way these Paroja tribes dress up. The attires of both male and female are colorful. Women folks of these Paroja tribal communities wear beautiful ornaments thereby enhancing their beauty. Nose rings and hairs clips are used by Paroja women. The male Paroja tribes have the habit of wearing earrings.
(Last Updated on : 12-12-2008)
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