The Pano of Kandhamal of Odisha (India): Grappling With a Nebulous Identity

ABSTRACT The Kandha tribe of Odisha (India) has gained attention due to their unique customs, rebellious nature, and ongoing struggle to protect their land. Historically, they have been documented in colonial army records, diaries of foreign visitors, and communications from administrators. This has continued to draw interest from both academic researchers and government officials. In contrast, the neighboring Pano do not attract the same level of attention. They are often viewed as a lower caste or Dalits. However, historical records reveal that the previously harmonious relationship between the Kandha and Pano communities has gradually turned bitter. The article explores the identity of the Pano through an ethnohistorical lens. The moot question it addresses is whether the Pano should be classified as a tribe or a lower caste. The argument presented is that the Pano are an ethnic aboriginal group, and their identity cannot be understood in isolation but rather in connection with the Kandha tribe.