Culture and Traditions of Andaman and Nicobar

Getting correct information on the culture and traditions of Andaman and Nicobar helps you to know the region. The islands are famous as a tourist destination as the region is bestowed with beautiful landscapes, vibrant islands, evergreen forests and wonderful scenic natural beauty. Moreover, Andaman and Nicobar's culture and tradition is a thing of beauty in its own way that can be explored by actually visiting the place.

Origin of the Culture and Traditions of Andaman and Nicobar

The rich culture of Andaman and Nicobar islands is exceptional. Its native population upholds the richness, ethnicity and customs of the islands that fetches the attraction of many visitors. Basically, the native populations of Andaman and Nicobar islands are characterized by two distinct populations, namely: The 'Negrito' in the Andaman and 'Autochthones' i.e., 'Mongoloid Nicobarese' and 'Shompen'. These diverse cultures have preserved their unique identity for years that attract a lot of visitors. The unique style, dignity and honor that they hold in the midst of the nearby areas are the best things that make the place a desirable one. These local people brought down by the descendants of the settlers of the initial period came from the Indian mainland region. A large number of migrants also add to the culture and tradition of the region. The best part about these two groups is that the culture and the lives of the locals in both the regions coexist peacefully.

Tribal Cultrue of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Andaman and Nicobar islanders are usually distinguished into two groups. Those that comprise the Andaman population are the Negroids of the Paleolithic age who migrated from Africa a few thousands of years ago. The ethnic group includes Andamanese, Onge, Jarawa and Sentinalese of Mongoloid origin wherein, the inhabitants of Nicobar comprise of the 'Nicobarese' and the 'Shompen' inhabitants. These tribes have maintained their uniqueness amid relative isolation and therefore have succeeded in maintaining the culture of the Islands.

The Colonial and Post Colonial Influences

During the early days, Andaman and Nicobar Islands was a famous destination for penal transportation. The legendary cellular jail in the region adds to its dishonor, where a large number of freedom fighters of Indian freedom struggle were jailed and deported. Their descendants made separate identities and formed distinct groups in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This way, they mostly contributed to the culture of the Andaman and Nicobar islands. However, in the subsequent years, the colonial rule in the region ended.

Recent Culture of Andaman & Nicobar Islands

The modern day culture of Andaman & Nicobar Islands is nothing but a blend of variety of ethnic groups, languages and religions brought by the inhabitants. You can find a cosmopolitan culture in the capital that is 'Port Blair' as people from different parts of the world came to the islands and settled there.

The local culture of Andaman is quite influenced by the South Indian culture due to the proximity. Christianity predominates in this Union Territory of India.

Fairs and Festivals of Andaman & Nicobar Islands

You can enjoy the local festivals, art and the rich civilized folklore, whenever you visit the islands. You can find all the usual festivals in Andaman & Nicobar Islands that are celebrated in other regions of India. For example: Christmas, Diwali, Good Friday Holi, Id, Janmastami, Ramanavami, Shivratri, etc.

The Island Tourism Festival that is usually held for a period of 15 days during the months of December and January, in Port Blair is an amusing activity to be a part of. It exhibits things like the 'Andaman dog show', water sports like 'Nicobari Hodi race' and parasailing. Moreover, various cultural bands and popular artists take part in this festival.

Arts and Crafts of Andaman & Nicobar Islands

You can find beautiful shells, interesting wood crafts and cane and bamboo works in Andaman & Nicobar Islands which are their main crafts. Besides this, basketry and mat making traditional crafts of the region also attract a number of tourists.

Attire of the People of Andaman & Nicobar Islands

It is believed that due to constant living in the far-flung forests of the islands, the local people haven't adopted to use of cloths. The Jarwas use shell adornments, bark like arm bands, necklaces and waist bands. The Shompens cover their below waist parts and the people of Sentinelese tribe do not wear clothes till date.

Tourists from all over the world come to Andaman to experience the local culture which is still quite rustic and closely connected to the land. Very rare locations in the world have been able to preserve the tribal culture in this fast paced and modern world.