In a disturbing reflection of persistent caste-based discrimination in India, 40 members of a tribal girl’s family in Odisha’s Raigad district reportedly shaved their heads as part of a ‘purification ritual’ after she married outside her caste.

According to Indian media reports, the girl, belonging to a Scheduled Tribe (ST) community, defied her family’s opposition and married a Scheduled Caste (SC) youth from a nearby village. The union, though legally permissible, provoked social backlash in the community, leading to a symbolic and ritualistic act of repentance imposed on her family.

Sources said the girl's family and extended relatives were subjected to a social boycott, with villagers deeming them "impure" for violating long-held caste norms.

In a bid to reintegrate into the community and avoid continued ostracism, nearly 40 male members of the family underwent a shudhi karan (purification ritual), which included public head shaving.

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The ritual, captured in a video that went viral on social media, showed dozens of men sitting in rows while barbers shaved their heads. According to locals, the family was also required to perform animal sacrifices—including goats and chickens—as part of the ceremony. The entire cost of the event, including offerings and rituals, was borne by the bride’s family.

Local officials confirmed they had taken cognisance of the viral footage and an investigation is currently underway.

"This is not just a social or religious practice—it reflects deep-rooted caste prejudice that still dominates many parts of rural India," said a local human rights advocate. "It is a clear violation of constitutional rights that guarantee equality, freedom, and the right to marry across caste lines."

Despite legal protections under the Indian Constitution and the Special Marriage Act, inter-caste marriages in many parts of India continue to face resistance, especially in conservative and rural areas. Human rights groups have long called for stronger implementation of anti-discrimination laws and wider societal awareness to combat caste-based oppression.