Khond refers to a tribal community residing primarily in the eastern Indian states of Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and parts of Chhattisgarh and Telangana. The Khonds, also known as Kondhs or Konds, have a distinct cultural identity with their own language, customs, and traditions.
The Khond people are mainly involved in agriculture, practicing both subsistence farming and commercial cultivation. They cultivate crops such as millet, maize, pulses, and tobacco. Along with agriculture, they also engage in fishing and hunting to supplement their livelihoods. The Khonds are known for their strong sense of community and their traditional methods of self-governance.
Traditional Khond society is organized around clans, which are further divided into smaller units called parganas. The village head, known as the nayak, is responsible for maintaining law and order within the community. The Khonds have their own religious beliefs and practices, including the worship of nature spirits and ancestors. They also hold various festivals and rituals throughout the year.
Khond culture has seen significant changes over time due to external influences and modernization. Despite these changes, the Khonds have managed to preserve their unique identity and continue to pass on their traditions to newer generations. Today, efforts are being made to protect and promote Khond culture, including the preservation of their language and documentation of their rich oral history.
