Telangana’s first officially recognized Primitive Tribal Group is the Chenchus. Major settlements of the Chenchus are in the Amrabad forest (Nagarkurnool, Nalgonda) and Nallamala forests. They have traditionally lived a primitive lifestyle, relying on hunting and foraging to sustain themselves. These days, they are more settled and live in structures made of mud and thatch. While they used to eat a lot of wild roots and tubers, they now grow more of their own food and eat a more varied diet. In addition to eating Mahua flowers (Ippa Puvvu), they make an alcoholic drink (Sara) from them, often imbibed to soothe sadness.

Social Structure:

Equal responsibility is shared by husbands and wives. Their traditions accept and simplify divorce.

Religious Beliefs:

Bhairava, Garela Maisamma, and Mallikarjuna Swamy of Srisailam are deities deserving worship. Srisailam Mallikarjuna Swamy is looked upon as the son-in-law, with the festival of Maha Shivaratri being celebrated in great grandeur. Chenchu priests serve in the Srisailam temple.

Important Fairs:

Mannanuru Jatara, Mallela Tirtham, Loddi Mallayya Jatara, Salleshwaram Jatara.