Dandami Maria

On May 30, 1981, India Post issued a ₹1 commemorative stamp featuring the Dandami Maria tribe, offering a beautiful philatelic tribute to one of the most culturally distinct indigenous communities of Central India, primarily residing in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh (formerly part of Madhya Pradesh). The stamp celebrates the rich anthropological heritage and striking artistic expressions of the Dandami Maria people (also known as the Bison-horn Maria). They are globally renowned for their spectacular ceremonial dance, traditionally performed during weddings and major seasonal festivals. During this dance, the men wear a magnificent, elaborate headdress fashioned from wild bison horns, decorated with a fringe of cowrie shells and colorful bird feathers, while the women beat long brass drums in perfect, rhythmic harmony with nature. Beyond their festive attire, the issue recognizes the community's deep-rooted connection to their ancestral lands, their sustainable way of life, and their unique social structures. Their vibrant folklore, wood carvings, and wall paintings serve as a living testament to the sophisticated artistic traditions that have been preserved and passed down through generations. For thematic philatelists specializing in indigenous cultures, anthropology, and traditional attire, this 1981 stamp is a standout classic. By immortalizing the Dandami Maria on a national postage stamp, India Post highlighted the vital importance of protecting indigenous identities, honoring the diversity of India’s tribal heritage, and recognizing these communities as foundational pillars of the nation's multi-cultural identity.

Technical data Notes Condition

Date of issue May 30, 1981

Denomination Rs. 1

Quantity printed 2000000

Printer Security Printing Press, Nashik

Perforation comb 14

Watermark No Watermark

Colours Multicolor

Catalogue codes Michel IN 870 Stamp Number IN 923 Yvert et Tellier IN 670 Stanley Gibbons IN 1005

Themes Men, Musical Instruments, People

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About this stamp

Indian civilization is a mosaic of many cultures, within which tribal cultures hold significant importance, especially in the context of modern man’s search for his roots. According to Census reports, about 6.97% of India’s population are tribals. The numerical strength of tribes varies widely, from about two dozen (e.g., Andamanese) to more than 5 million (e.g., Bhils). These tribes encompass various racial types, including proto-Australoid, Mongoloid, Negrito stocks, with contributions from Palaealpine, Nordic, Mediterranean, and Negroid backgrounds. Their languages belong to all the major language families, though Austric, Dravidian, and Tibeto-Chinese predominate.

Traditionally, the tribals live on agriculture, forestry, and animal husbandry. However, most tribal societies are rapidly adjusting themselves to the changing milieu.

Dandami Maria

The Dandami Maria, also known by other names like Bison-Horn Maria and Khalpati Maria, is a subgroup of the Gond, one of the largest tribes in India. Their home is the verdant forests in Bastar District of Madhya Pradesh. The Dandami Maria are particularly noted for their splendid bison-horn headgear, topped with resplendent peacock feathers, which adds a striking visual element to their life and leisure.

The Dandami Maria live primarily by agriculture, supplemented by hunting and fishing. They typically wear minimal clothing, with a piece of loincloth being their primary garment, leaving them mostly bare-bodied. An important social institution among them is the ghotul, a youth dormitory for unmarried boys and girls, which plays a crucial role in their social life. They also permit divorce and widow remarriage, reflecting a degree of social flexibility.

(Consultant for text: B. K. Roy Burman)