Abstract
The Dangaria textile, known as Kapdaganda, depicts the way of life of the Kondhs who live on the Niyamgiri mountain, their habitat, and their identity. Dangaria Kondh women weave the mountain on textiles, which are prominently worn by men and women in all their religious rituals. Their beautiful cloth narrates the story of the co-existence of Niyamagiri hills, the forest, and nature. The myths and legends associated with the textile narrate the story of the Niyamgiri hills as their creator, protector, and nurturer, and their following his rules: niyam Ku niyam for their well-being. For the Dangaria Kondh tribal residents of Odisha, the Niyamgiri hills have been key sacred actors and leaders in their protection. In the last few decades, I have observed quite disturbing dismantling of tribal social structure, culminating in a massive plan for a mega-mining project. Niyamgiri Dangaria Kondh Weavers Association (NDKWA) has attained the Government of India (GI) tag for Kapdaganda, which gives the weavers’ community a national recognition for its traditional craftsmanship. The revival of Dangaria textile showcases the mountain’s strength, power, and sacredness in the face of the vulnerability faced through the extraction efforts. I want to stress that the purpose of rendering textiles is not to show their excellence but their artistic expression–a legacy of tradition, an identity. Women create this textile, from spinning, weaving, warping, and dyeing to performing spiritual activities. Their tireless efforts and dedication must be recognized for contributing to the heirloom tradition and protecting their sacred mountain.
Presenters
Annapurna PandeyLecturer, Anthropology, University of California, Santa Cruz, California, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2025 Special Focus—Fragile Meanings: Vulnerability in the Study of Religions and Spirituality
KEYWORDS
Indigenous Women's Textile, Vulnerability of the Sacred Mountain, Extraction Economy
