• Mr. Hutasan Majhi
• Miss. Minati Naik

Abstract The cultural practices of the Bathudi tribe in the Keonjhar district of northern Odisha are increasingly threatened by the encroachment of the megalithic burial ground tradition. The reconstruction of the prehistory and early history of this ethnic tribal group poses significant challenges due to the absence of written records and scientifically excavated archaeological evidence. One of the most intriguing aspects of Bathudi history is the presence of megaliths large stone slabs used as burial monuments. The erection of these megalithic structures is closely associated with death rituals and reflects a rich cultural tradition, particularly among the Bathudi communities. This tradition remains evident among the Bathudi tribe today. During a field survey, the author identified several megalithic structures near Bathudi community settlements in the Keonjhar district of Odisha. Historical records and ethnographic studies indicate that many tribal societies maintain specific beliefs and practices related to death. This paper focuses on three burial sites in the villages of Hatadihi, Ghashipura, and Ghatagaon, where the Bathudi people have erected megaliths. It seeks to explore the cultural significance of these megalithic traditions, drawing on field data and literary sources to deepen our understanding of these practices.

Keywords: Megalithic, Tradition, Burial, Ground, Bathudi. Community, Keonjhar, District, Odisha.

"Megalithic Tradition of Burial Ground of the Bathudi Community of Keonjhar district in Odisha", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 11, page no.d67-d78, November-2024, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2411310.pdf

"Megalithic Tradition of Burial Ground of the Bathudi Community of Keonjhar district in Odisha", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 11, page no. ppd67-d78, November-2024, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2411310.pdf