The Andaman & Nicobar Islands have a unique and diverse cultural heritage, moulded by their strategic location in the Bay of Bengal Sea and the control of various settlers and traders. Here are some aspects of the culture of Andaman:

Indigenous Tribes

1. Sentinelese: One of the oldest indigenous tribes, known for their isolationism and unique culture.

2. Jarawa: Another indigenous tribe, known for their expertise in hunting and gathering.

3. Great Andamanese: A tribe that has largely assimilated into mainstream culture, but still maintains their unique traditions.

4. Nicobari: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have a unique and diverse cultural heritage, shaped by their strategic location in the Bay of Bengal and the influence of various settlers and traders.

5. Shompen: The Shompen people are an indigenous tribe inhabiting the Great Nicobar Island in the Nicobar Islands chain.

6. Ongie: The Ongie people, also known as the Onge, are an indigenous tribe inhabiting the Andaman Islands, specifically Little Andaman Island.

Cultural Influences

1. Indian: Andaman has been part of India since independence, and as a result, Indian culture has had a important impact.

2. Southeast Asian: The islands' proximity to Southeast Asia has led to cultural exchange and influences from countries like Myanmar, Thailand, and Indonesia.

3. British: The British colonial era left a lasting impact on the islands' architecture, language, and customs.

Traditions and Festivals

1. Island Tourism Festival: A annual festival that showcases the islands' unique culture, music, and dance.

2. Durga Puja: A significant festival celebrated by the Bengali community in Andaman.

3. Onge Festival: A festival celebrated by the Onge tribe, featuring traditional music, dance, and food.

Cuisine

1. Seafood: Fresh seafood is a staple in Andaman, with popular dishes like fish curry and prawn fry.

2. Coconut-based dishes: Coconut is widely used in Andaman's cuisine, in dishes like coconut rice and coconut curry.

3. Tribal cuisine: The indigenous tribes have their unique cuisine, featuring dishes made from forest produce and seafood.

Arts and Crafts

1. Wood carvings: The islands are famous for their intricate wood carvings, often depicting tribal motifs.

2. Shell crafts: Shell crafts, like shell jewelry and shell decorations, are popular souvenirs.

3. Tribal paintings: The indigenous tribes have a unique style of painting, often depicting their myths and legends.

These are just a few aspects of the rich and diverse culture of Andaman. The islands' unique history, geography, and cultural influences have created a fascinating cultural landscape.