Communities in Bastar:
- Gonds: The Gonds are the largest tribal community in Bastar. They believe in animism and worship a variety of deities and spirits. They have a strong connection with nature and their livelihoods are primarily based on agriculture, hunting, and gathering.

- Maria: The Maria community also resides in Bastar and they follow a unique religious system known as Maria Nala. They believe in the existence of a supreme deity called Bada Dev and worship ancestral spirits. They practice shifting cultivation and are known for their intricate metalwork.

- Muria: The Muria tribe inhabits the northern part of Bastar and practices podu cultivation. They worship various deities and spirits associated with nature, fertility, and protection. The Muria people are known for their vibrant dances and unique musical instruments.

- Dhurwas: The Dhurwas are another tribal community in Bastar who primarily engage in agriculture. They have their own distinct religious beliefs and rituals. The Dhurwa society is organized in clans, and the clan head plays a significant role in their social and religious affairs.

- Bison-Horn Maria: The Bison-Horn Maria tribe is a sub-group of the Maria community. They are known for their unique tradition of using bison horns as decorative headgear during their ceremonies and festivals. They have their own religious practices and social customs.

- Dorla: The Dorla tribe resides in the southern part of Bastar. They have their own distinctive cultural practices and religious beliefs. The Dorla people are skilled craftsmen and are known for their bamboo and wooden products.

Beliefs and Practices:
- Animism: Most of the tribal communities in Bastar follow animistic beliefs, which involve the worship of various deities and spirits associated with natural elements like forests, rivers, and mountains. They believe in the existence of supernatural forces that influence their lives.

- Ancestral Worship: Many of the tribes in Bastar also practice ancestral worship. They believe in the presence and influence of their ancestors and seek their guidance and blessings. Ancestral spirits are revered and propitiated through rituals and offerings.

- Shifting Cultivation: A common agricultural practice among the tribes in Bastar is shifting cultivation, also known as slash-and-burn farming. They clear small patches of land, cultivate it for a few years, and then move on to new areas. This practice is deeply rooted in their cultural and ecological traditions.

- Rituals and Festivals: The tribal communities in Bastar celebrate various rituals and festivals throughout the year. These festivities are marked by vibrant dances, music, and elaborate rituals. They provide an opportunity for the communities to come together, celebrate, and strengthen their social bonds.

- Metalwork and Craftsmanship: The tribes in Bastar are renowned for their metalwork, especially the Maria and Bison-Horn Maria communities. They create intricate patterns and designs using brass and bell metal. Bamboo and wooden craftsmanship are also significant among the Dorla tribe.

The communities in Bastar exhibit a rich cultural heritage and their beliefs and practices reflect their deep connection with nature and their ancestral traditions.