Children of the Jungle

Documentary about the Bhil tribal people of central India, produced by the British-owned Times of India.

This portrait of the Bhil people was produced by the British-owned Times of India. It includes detailed scenes featuring hunting as well as wedding and divorce rituals. The plumy-voiced commentator who thinks you ‘might find these traditions ludicrous’ speaks volumes about colonial attitudes. Although some of the commentary grates, the film makes for fascinating viewing both for its portrayal of the Bhil people and the attitude of the British toward the ‘primitive natives’.