Housing Matters

Abstract

Abstract ‘Being Garo’ finds expression first and foremost in terms of relatedness. This chapter explores relational categories, and how these are experienced across distinct social domains. Proceeding from ethnographic narrative, I discuss how roles and responsibilities are shaped, in part, to fit real-life needs. Garo express relatedness with reference to matrilineal descent and affinity. Marriages that can be continued across generations provide shape to hierarchically structured residential groups. Belonging to such groups brings access to resources, the most important of which is land. While the relationships within these groups might appear immutable, over time they can be adapted and reinterpreted in accordance with changing political and economic strengths and weaknesses. Kin groups shape people’s relationships to one another, but at the same time these groups are defined by the actions of those who are part of them.