This book examines the role of the forest in the life of the tribal communities in India, with particular focus on the Khasis. Tracing the origin and history of the Khasis, it describes in detail their land, ecological heritage, economy and parameters of forest usages among them. It further discovers the wholeness of nature and ecology in the socio-religious life of the Khasis. Also, it presents a detailed account of the parameters of forest usages in Khasi society, covering various aspects of their life and culture such as shelter, food, medicinal herbs, musical instruments, weaving and dying, and rituals as well as ceremonies.