The most backward tribe in India, Katkari is settled in
Raigad and
Thane districts of
Maharashtra. This primitive forest tribe is also known as 'encroachers'.
The people are laborers and firewood sellers and experts in hunting and gathering. Stone crushing, tree felling and charcoal making are the other occupations. Today, most of the people are engaged in brick making. Much of the time is spend on alcohol and entertainment. Early marriage is their custom. The huts are made of mud with a peaked roof covered with palm leaves.
All sorts of flesh, except the cow and the brown faced monkey, are eaten. Katkari is the only tribal group in Raigad-Thane region who eat rodents. Even a religious festival is there relating to rodents.
