Socio economic life in Chotanagpur.

The five districts of eastern Bihar-Ranchi, Hazaribagh, Palamau, Singhbhum, Dhanbad-and the tributary estates of Kharsawan and Saraikela situated in the picturesque plateau of Chotanagpur has been rightly called a paradise for anthropological investigation. The plateau is inhabited by the tribals who coming into contact with the non-tribals are slowly transforming themselves. A sociological study of this area will therefore not only evoke the interest of the investigator but would also greatly add to our knowledge about which we know precious little.

Dr. Sinha has made a successful attempt in his book to portray the social life of the tribals in Chotanagpur from 1858 to 1935. From historical point of view both dates are important-the first marking the end of the 'Sepoy Muitiny' and the second reminding us of the year of the partition of Bihar and Orissa into two separate provinces of the erstwhile British India.

Based on first-hand source material Dr. Sinha brings out the chief features of the social life of Chotanagpur both of the tribal society and the non-tribal society such as social organization, beliefs and customs, food, clothes and ornament and education.. The Influence of the non-tribal religions Hinduism, Muhammu danism and Christianity-on the life of the tribals has been dealt with to show how and in what manner his superior religion Influe nces the religion of the less advanced people.

Dr. Sinha's treatment of the subject is thorough and his book is full of information. Written clearly without any pretension to be scholarly the book is none the less a contribution to Indian sociolo gy and anthropology.