Tribals in Mulugu Continue 3,500-Year-Old Burial Rituals
Hyderabad: Despite the steady spread of modernization and global influences into remote tribal areas, Gutti Koya tribes in parts of Mulugu district continue to preserve ancient funerary customs believed to date back about 3,500 years ago, or to the Megalithic period.
The community still maintains ancient burial practices, including building monumental stone pillars (dolmen-like stone structures) over the deceased. These practices are very similar to the burial methods associated with early humans. However, community leaders say that the size of the grave is determined by the deceased person’s reputation and stature within the tribe.
Funeral ceremonies continue to be held with the participation of all tribe members, regardless of personal disagreements and differences. A special ceremony is held to commemorate the ancestors. This event is known as ‘Pedda Guptayi Festival’ and the entire village marches towards the ancestral graveyards. A feast of mahua liquor and meat is held for the villagers.
Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, young Santhosh Isram from Narlapur said that many traditions have been preserved by tribals for thousands of years. He said ancient burial grounds were mistakenly referred to as Rakshasa Guhalu and should instead be considered as ancestral monuments.
The Godavari river basin region in Mulugu district hosts ancient burial sites and reflects the existence, lifestyle and traditions of the first people. Many ancient burial sites can be found in the Eturnagaram Agency area, especially in Damaravai, but also in Jaggaram, Gangararam and other surrounding villages.
