• Dr. Truptirekha Sahoo

The Karam (or Karma) tree occupies a central place in the ritual, ecological, and moral universe of several tribal communities in eastern and central India. Celebrated through the Karam (Karma) festival, the tree symbolizes fertility, youth, agricultural prosperity, and the reciprocal relationship between humans and nature. This article explores the cultural, religious, and ecological significance of the Karam tree among indigenous communities such as the Oraon, Munda, Santhal, Ho, and related groups. Drawing upon ethnographic literature, anthropological interpretations, and indigenous oral traditions, the study argues that Karam worship represents an indigenous model of eco-spirituality, where ritual practice reinforces environmental ethics, social cohesion, and cultural continuity. In the context of modernization, land alienation, and ecological degradation, the Karam tradition also emerges as a powerful marker of tribal identity and resistance.

Karam tree, tribal religion, eco-spirituality, indigenous knowledge, Karam Parab, India

"The Karam Tree and Its Socio-Ecological Significance among Tribal Communities of Eastern and Central India ", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.13, Issue 3, page no.a98-a100, March-2026, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2603013.pdf

"The Karam Tree and Its Socio-Ecological Significance among Tribal Communities of Eastern and Central India ", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.13, Issue 3, page no. ppa98-a100, March-2026, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2603013.pdf