Beauty of Belghar calls you in winter
By Susanta Kumar Dalai
Phulbani (Odisha):Belghar, located in Kandhamal district of Odisha, turns into a place of breathtaking beauty during winter. Covered with thick greenery and diverse landscapes, it is home to the Kutia Kondh, one of the PVTGs. This community has lived in the lap of these hills for generations. Their settlements are located at an altitude of around 2,555 feet above sea level, adding to the charm of the region.
During winter, Belghar wears an enchanting look. Dewdrops shining on green leaves create a scenic and soothing view for visitors. The gentle mist, cool breeze, and silent hills make the place look like a natural painting. Anyone who visits Belghar during this season feels refreshed by its peaceful surroundings.
For the tribal community, winter is an important season. Early in the morning, villagers walk towards the hilltops to protect their agricultural lands. Their main crop is millet, grown through traditional methods on the slopes of the forest. The golden millet fields waiting for harvest look beautiful against the forest backdrop. These fields not only provide food but also strengthen the bond between the Kutia Kondh and their land.
As tourists and visitors explore Belghar, they find the morning sun struggling to break through the thick branches of the forest, creating a magical play of light and shadow. The diverse landscapes where PVTG communities live support their livelihoods, traditional knowledge, and cultural practices.
India has 75 identified PVTGs, and Odisha has the highest number-13 such groups. The Kutia Kondh are one of them. They live close to nature, often in remote and hilly areas, practicing shifting cultivation and depending heavily on forest resources. In the beautiful hills of Belghar, there are 123 Kutia Kondh villages, with 2,372 households and a population of 8,636, spread across nine Gram Panchayats under Tumudibandh Block. Their unique lifestyle draws many visitors who want to learn about tribal culture and simplicity.
Evenings in Belghar are a feast for the eyes. As the cold sets in, the Kutia Kondh gather around warm bonfires. They sing traditional songs and dance together, celebrating their rich culture. The sound of their music echoing through the hills creates a memorable and heartwarming experience.
