India’s tattooed communities and their unique traditions

Tattooing in India goes beyond being a current trend. It is an ancient tradition practiced in rural areas for years. In fact, there are different names that have been given to tattoos in the country depending on location; for instance, tattoos are referred to as godna in central India among other places. Despite most of the rituals behind tattooing diminishing, this ancient practice has much to teach us about India's culture. Amongst the famous traditions of tattooing in India are those of the Apatanis of Arunachal Pradesh. One may see older women from this community having traditional face tattoos with vertical stripes from forehead to their chins, apart from wearing the nose plugs that are characteristic of the tribe. There were various reasons given by the elders for this practice, but there is no known single cause for the custom. The practice was officially discontinued in the 1970s, and it is no longer followed by younger generations.Tattooing is one of the many distinguishing characteristics of the Baiga tribes in the states of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Godna is a form of tattooing that forms an important aspect of Baiga culture and tradition, especially among the women of this tribe. Geometric patterns and designs are incorporated into tattoos during various phases in their lives and may hold cultural significance. The Konyaks of Nagaland are among the most visually distinctive tattooed communities in India. Traditionally, facial and body tattoos were closely linked to social status and life achievements. Historical records indicate that tattoos were once associated with the now-discontinued practice of headhunting, where markings signified accomplishments and transitions in life. Today, these tattoos are primarily seen among older members of the community, as the practice has largely faded with changing social and cultural norms.Among the Rabari tribes of Gujarat and Rajasthan, tattooing remains one of their many cultural traditions. Women of this tribe wear tattoo designs on their hands, arms, and necks, which often include animal images, religious symbols, and geometric patterns. Such designs act as a means of identification for members of this community. The tattoos worn by the Rabari tribes are also seen as permanent jewellery.Historically, the Toda people of the Nilgiri Hills in Tamil Nadu engaged in the practice of tattooing on women’s bodies. The tattoos are generally simple and geometrical, and the tattoos were done traditionally through the use of thorns to prick the skin. Although this custom has become very rare today, it still holds significant historical importance for the Toda culture.The Gond community residing in central India uses tattoos as part of their culture. The tattoos are commonly derived from nature and may include animals and plants, owing to the intimate connection that the community shares with nature.