The Mayurbhanj: The Rich History and Landscape of Santal

Mayurbhanj, a historically significant region, extended over an area of 4,243 square miles and was known for its diverse landscapes, fertile valleys, and abundant natural resources. The district, nestled in the heart of Odisha, was home to the Meghasani Hills, also known as 'the seats of clouds,' which rose to a height of 3,824 feet in the southern part of the state. The presence of various types of laterite soil across the district played a crucial role in shaping the region's agriculture, habitation, and overall environmental makeup. a height of 3,824 feet in the southern part of the state. The presence of various types of laterite soil across the district played a crucial role in shaping the region's agriculture, habitation, and overall environmental makeup. 

The Natural Beauty of Mayurbhanj 

 Mayurbhanj boasted a unique and unspoiled ecosystem, with the Similipal Forest acting as a crucial ecological hub. This forest, covering a large area in a single compact block, remained largely untouched by human pollution, preserving its virgin and semi-evergreen nature. Rich in biodiversity, Similipal housed an array of flora and fauna, with thick, impenetrable forests dominated by Sal trees. These forests were crucial to maintaining ecological balance and provided a habitat for diverse species. 

Apart from its lush greenery, Mayurbhanj's varied terrain also included the regions of Bamanghati and Nayabasan, known for their hills, dense jungles, and valleys. While these areas remained significant in their own right, they were largely inaccessible to trade and commerce due to their rugged landscape. These forests were predominantly inhabited by some of the most primitive jungle tribes, who thrived in the secluded environment. 

The soil in the northern part of Bamanghati was exceptionally fertile, making it suitable for extensive cultivation. The Santals, one of the indigenous communities of the region, often used red and yellow ochre to paint their houses. The region was also known for its geological wealth, with yellowish limestone deposits found in the bed of the Burabalanga River at Mahulia near Baripada. Additionally, the clay found on the laterite bed of Baripada was highly suitable for pottery, further contributing to the region's economic and cultural significance. 

Settlement and Migration Patterns 

The rich natural resources of Mayurbhanj attracted settlers searching for suitable locations to establish their communities. The dense forest tracts of Similipal, coupled with the laterite-rich bed of Mayurbhanj, proved to be an ideal settlement area. Historical records suggest that some groups of settlers migrated to the hilly regions of the Similipal Mountains following the fall of Champa in approximately 1340 AD. 

However, historical documents indicate that the Santals had already established themselves in Mayurbhanj long before the 14th century. One of the earliest pieces of evidence comes from the Bamanghati copper plate inscription of 924 AD, issued by King Ranabhanja. This inscription recorded the grant of four villages in favor of the son of Mahasamanta Mandi, a significant figure whose lands were located in Uttarkhanda. These regions comprised the Vishayas of Karandiya and Devakunda, which are now identified as the modern-day locations of Karanjia and Devakunda. 

Another copper plate, attributed to Rajabhanja, the son of Ranabhanja, documents the grant of Brahmanvasti to Subraman, the son of Samanta Mandi. Given that 'Mandi' or 'Marndi' is a title exclusively used by the Santal community, it is evident that the Santals had an established presence in Mayurbhanj during this period. Furthermore, the Santals are known to have twelve primary septs or clans, with 'Mandi' or 'Marndi' being the fifth in the hierarchy. This suggests a well-organized societal structure that had existed in the region for centuries. 

The Santals and Their Legacy in Mayurbhanj 

Historical records provide strong evidence that the Santals were among the earliest settlers of Mayurbhanj. When they originally hailed from Champa, they were a wealthy and influential class, known for their fortified settlements. One of their significant strongholds was Badoligarh, indicating their strategic prowess and administrative capabilities. 

Given that King Ranabhanja was ruling Mayurbhanj in 924 AD and that the copper plate inscriptions from that time are considered authentic, it can be reasonably inferred that the Santals had settled in Mayurbhanj as early as the 10th century. This directly challenges the opinion of historian Charulal Mukherjee, who argued that the Santals migrated to Mayurbhanj in the late 18th century. The evidence from these ancient inscriptions strongly supports the claim that the Santals had a deep-rooted history in the region dating back over a thousand years. 

Cultural and Economic Contributions of the Santals 

The Santals played a crucial role in shaping the cultural and economic landscape of Mayurbhanj. Being skilled agriculturists, they utilized the region’s fertile lands for extensive cultivation. Their traditional knowledge of farming, combined with their understanding of natural cycles, allowed them to thrive in an otherwise challenging environment. 

In addition to agriculture, the Santals were also known for their unique artistic expressions. Their use of red and yellow ochre for painting their houses was a testament to their creativity and deep connection with nature. This traditional form of decoration not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of their homes but also held significant cultural and symbolic value. 

The Santals also contributed to the economic prosperity of the region through their craftsmanship. The availability of high-quality clay in Baripada allowed them to excel in pottery-making, an industry that continues to hold cultural importance today. Their craftsmanship extended beyond pottery to include wood carving, weaving, and metalwork, which played a significant role in the region’s trade networks. 

Challenges and Resilience 

Despite their deep historical roots in Mayurbhanj, the Santals faced numerous challenges over the centuries. The rugged terrain and dense forests, while offering protection, also posed difficulties in terms of accessibility and trade. Moreover, external invasions and changing political dynamics often disrupted their way of life. However, the Santals displayed remarkable resilience, adapting to the challenges while preserving their cultural identity. 

The colonial era brought new challenges, as British policies significantly impacted the traditional lifestyles of indigenous communities. The introduction of revenue-based land systems and the exploitation of natural resources altered the socio-economic fabric of the region. However, the Santals actively resisted these changes, as seen in various tribal uprisings throughout history.

Conclusion 

Mayurbhanj is a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. The presence of the Santals in the region can be traced back to at least the 10th century, as evidenced by ancient copper plate inscriptions. Their contributions to agriculture, craftsmanship, and cultural traditions have left a lasting impact on the district. 

The Meghasani Hills, the Similipal Forest, and the fertile valleys of Bamanghati and Nayabasan continue to define the unique geography of Mayurbhanj. Despite numerous challenges, the Santals and other indigenous communities have managed to preserve their heritage while adapting to changing times. Today, Mayurbhanj stands as a testament to the resilience of its people and the richness of its history. As more research and historical discoveries unfold, the story of Mayurbhanj and its inhabitants will continue to provide valuable insights into the region's past and its contributions to the broader cultural tapestry of India. 

NOTES AND REFERENCES 

 1. A.R.N. Srivastava, Tribal freedom fighters of India , (New Delhi, 1986), 

2.. C.L. Mukharjee, The Santals , (Calcutta 1943). 

3. H.H. Risley, The Tribes and the Castes of Bengal, Vol.11, (Calcutta, 1998 

4. M.Laeequddin, census of Mayurbhanj, 1931 (Calcutta, 1935), p.78. 

5. M. Ahmed, District census hand book , Mayurbhanj (Cuttack, 1967), p. 17 

6. N.M. Senapati, N.K. Sahu (eds.), Orissa district gazetteers, Mayurbhanj (Cutt 1967), 

7. M. Laeequddin, Village Directory of Mayurbhanj State , Vol.1, (Baripada, 19 D.ll. 

8. A. Wright (ed.) Bengal and Assam, Bihar and Orissa , (London, 1917), p.574. 

9. R.D. Benarjee, History of Orissa, Vol.1 (Calcutta, 1930), p. 187. 

10. E.G. Man, Sonathalia and Sorthals (Delhi, 1983), p. 13. 

11. G.A. Grierison, Munda and Dravidan languages, Vol. IV, (Delhi, 1973), p. 30. 

12. LSSO, Malley, Bengal District Gazetteer, Santal Pargana (Calcutta, 1999), p. 65. 

13. The Santal mission of the Northern churches, The tradition and institution of the santals, Horkoren Mare Hapramko Reak' Katha, (Lucknow, 1958), p.4. 

14. Ibid., p.21, The Santal mission of the Northern churches ... (op.cit., p. 6). 

15. P.O. Bodding, Traditions and Institutions of Santal , (New Delhi 2001), p. 6. 

16. S.B. Sen, The Santals of Jungle Mahals , (Calcutta, 1984), p. 33. 

17. E.T. Dalton, descriptive Ethnology of Bengal (New Delhi, 1974), p. 449.