Orissa has the largest variety of tribal societies of all the Indian states. Their cultural identities are evidenced by the distinctiveness of their dress, social organization, language, and rituals.

Every facet of their lifestyle is intimately connected with ancient traditions, beliefs, and practices. They believe that their lives and work are controlled by supernatural beings whose abode is around them in the hills, forests, rivers and houses. They have many gods and spirits, some that are benevolent, others malevolent.

Ceremonies are classified into two groups: those that relate to the family - birth, marriage, and death; and those that relate to the village - agricultural cycles, success in hunting, ripening of fruit, etc.

Most tribal women are very fond of using ornaments and many of them weave their own beautiful clothes from colorful yarns, in this way expressing their artistic quality and esthetic sense.