The Santal Tribe

First Online: March 12, 2003
Page Last Updated: February 17, 2024

Introduction

The Santals (a.k.a. Santhals) are a dominant native community of Northeastern India. They are found mainly in West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand and Orissa states of India and in Bangladesh. Known for their ability to bear hardships, they are regarded as proud and brave soldiers. In fact one of the early rebellions against the British was led by a Santali leader,  Baba Tilka Majhi.

All of the following photographs were taken by K.L.Kamat in early 1970, in rural West Bengal. Read also The Red Ants and the Santali Boy that depicts the harsh treatment meted out to the Santals during those years. 

-Vikas Kamat

Table of Contents

• A drummer of the Santhal tribe, West Bengal
• Education of the Santhali Boy
• Santali Tribal Boy Hunting Bird with Bow and Arrow
• Santhal Tribals
• Santhali Woman
• Woman Picks Rice

See Also:

• Children of the Forest God -- Learn about the little known, but very rich traditions and cultures of the tribals of India