Tribals being denizens of the forest, change their homes frequently. They build two or three homes a year as the moisture that collects in their homes invites termites who build their mounds there. Tribals believe that this is an indication that God has made an appearance in their homes. Hence out of respect for the deity, they leave their homes for God to inhabit.

Preparations therefore begin to build a new home. It all commences with the cutting of bamboo into long pieces, which is subsequently allowed to dry for eight days.

Cut Bamboo Used to Build Walls

Following this, the dry bamboo is soaked in water for two days in order for it to become malleable.

Subsequently, the bamboo is used to weave walls for the new home. The tribals are then on the look-out for clay soil as it helps avoid termites in the house. Clay soil is thus applied thoroughly on the walls on the interior and exterior of the hut.

The soil dries within a week, and beautiful patterns appear on it, as visible below.

Wall of a Tribal Hut

In a week’s time, the tribals apply cow dung on the walls, as it helps avoid diseases (the cow being a herbivore). They also use paddy straw to build the roofs of their homes. This prevents water from seeping into the home and also helps to regulate the temperature in the house.

Ever paid a visit to a tribal home at Coorg, anyone?

The Finished Product: a Tribal Hut!

This entry was posted on Wednesday, September 14th, 2011 at 4:00 AM and is filed under Culture, Plantation. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.