The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India, Volume 4

by R. V. Russell

29. Language

The Kurukh language, Dr. Grierson states, has no written character, but the gospels have been printed in it in the Devanāgri type. The translation is due to the Rev. F. Halm, who has also published a Biblical history, a catechism and other small books in Kurukh. More than five-sixths of the Oraons are still returned as speaking their own language.

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[1] Linguistic Survey, vol. iv. p. 406.

[2] Bengal Census Report (1901).

[3] Ethnography, p. 248.

[4] Tribes and Castes, vol. ii. p. 141.

[5] Panna Lāl, Revenue Inspector.

[6] Sorghum halepense.

[7] Shorea robusta.

[8] In Bilāspur the men have an iron comb in the hair with a circular end and two prongs like a fork. Women do not wear this.

[9] Jungle Life in India, p. 134.