Mayurbhanj

her life

Mayurbhanj revives traditional looms

Mayurbhanj’s handloom legacy is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, stitching together threads of tradition and innovation, painting a brighter canvas for its future, one vibrant sari at a time.

her life

The ‘art houses’ of Odisha’s Santal tribe

The colourful murals painted by Santal women are a centre of attraction in Mayurbhanj district. The community believes that the artworks adorning the mud walls of homes appease their god and ancestors, ensuring their health and prosperity.

her life

Sal-sufficient: Leafy tableware of Odisha’s Santhal tribe

Santhal women in Odisha's Mayurbhanj district are preserving their ancient heritage by making plates and bowls from sal leaves. However, the arrival of plastic products in remote tribal areas is fast wiping out the practice.

her life

Making red weaver ant chutney

For years, red weaver ant has been an integral part of diet among the tribal communities in North Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district that has ensured their dietary diversity and food security. During lean season, when there is no standing crop for harvest, tribals often make a living out of selling it in the weekly market.

her life

Step-by-step guide to make red ant chutney

The red weaver ant is an integral part of the diet of tribal communities in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district. During the lean season, when there is no standing crop, tribals often sell these insects in the local market to make a living.

her life

Dying Siali craft keeps Mankidia tribe on the edge

The tribe was displaced from the Similipal forest when it became a national park, which reduced access to the Siali creeper they weave into ropes and baskets.

her life

Fish on their plate, money in their wallet

In underdeveloped Mayurbhanj, Odisha, women sustainably cultivate fish that not only brings them money but ensures better nutrition for their family.

her life

Mayurbhanj villagers forced to ford river to reach schools, hospitals

Inadequate and inconvenient road connectivity due to poor planning compels many villagers in Mayurbhanj district of Odisha to risk a dangerous crossing of Burhabalang River everyday to reach the nearest town

her life

Adivasis in Odisha suffer the most due to malnutrition

Malnourished tribal communities in Odisha have not benefitted from decades-old government schemes aimed at improving health outcomes, mainly due to patchy and apathetic implementation