Paper short abstract:

Three processes will be compared: first, the individual conversion toward an ascetic reform movement; second, appropriation of cultural features of “Indian mainstream society” by the young; third, assertion of an “Adivasi identity” by a few.

Paper long abstract:

This paper discusses recent research on cultural change among the Gadaba of highland Odisha, a community classified as Schedule Tribe by the government. Three processes will be compared. The first concerns the individual choice of a few Gadaba to abandon their previous lifestyle and to become initiated into an ascetic reform movement called Alekh Dharma. It will be outlined how this ascetic stance can be negotiated with a local religion that stresses alcohol consumption and animal sacrifice. The second process deals with a phenomenon widespread among the young Gadaba, namely the appropriation of cultural elements such as gestures, clothes and diet associated with "Indian mainstream society" that is advocated in local government schools and popularized through recently available Oriya films. The paper will address if and how this appropriation changes local ritual practice and what its impact is on inter-generational relations. Finally, a few educated Gadaba articulate tentative claims toward a separate Adivasi identity — for instance with regard to language — and it will be discussed whether these are individual opinions or rather the beginning of institutionalized resistance.