Chatikiona

Chatikiona is situated 48 kilometres from Rayagada, bordered by a range of valleys and timber hills. The place is a renowned holy seat for the famous Mahadev temple located here. During the Shiva Ratri the temple becomes the hub of various activities, rituals and functions. The most popular and primitive tribal community dwelling in Chatikiona is the Dongaria Kondha. They continue to lead a rustic lifestyle in the lap of nature. They are primarily able horticulturists residing in the steep elevations of the Niyamagiri Hills. These tribal societies embrace the faction of people who understand the meaning of living together and join hands to work together to achieve any shared interest to cater to the benefits of their society. Every society has its own set of rules with respect to business and trade. These enhance and strengthen their unity to live and toil collectively as one. The tribal groups although have undertaken various forms of odd jobs at present, yet their basic livelihood depend on hunting and cultivation. They grow fruits like pineapple, banana, orange etc.  In the past eras, the tribal land areas were never surveyed and they did not lead a settled life. The tribal people carried out shifting cultivation, taking into consideration that they were the possessors of the natural resources like the river water, forest trees and the lush green lands. The rituals and festivals practiced by the tribal groups are still being followed, respected and nurtured since the distant past to the present day. Although the art of performing the songs and dances differ from one clan to another, yet certain features are generally familiar to all. Their social life revolves around their deep-seated religious practices and viewpoints. They also celebrate a number of festivals.  The personal or domestic affairs include occasions concerning marriage, death or birth of an infant whereas the whole village get together to observe events like rich harvest and mellow fruitfulness. Interestingly, the Kondh men wear ear and nose rings and maintain long length of hair as women. The place has a pleasant cultural amalgamation where people speak languages like Oriya, Telugu and popular tribal languages like Saora. The place is also well known for its blissful ambiance. The turbulent waterfalls are a major attraction for the sightseers.