The Paroja tribe of Odisha revere the deities of the hills, forests, and streams, with their central village guardian being Hundi Debta. This deity is enshrined at the heart of the village and is worshipped during all major festivals such as Pus Parab, Chait Parab, Bihan Puja, Diali, Nuakhia, and Dasara.

Dance and music form an integral part of these celebrations, and the Paroja people find immense joy in composing folk songs and dancing late into the night. One of the most cherished dances among them is the Rinjodi Dance, performed during festivals and as a form of relaxation and entertainment after long days of working in the fields.

Traditionally, Rinjodi is a courtship dance. Among the Paroja, a beautiful young girl is affectionately called rinjidi, while a handsome young boy is known as rinjida. In earlier times, each village maintained two dormitories: dhangda basa for unmarried boys and dhangdi basa for unmarried girls. Every evening, these youths would gather to sing, dance, and interact with each other — creating a respectful and joyful environment to form friendships and even choose future life partners.

During the winter festival of Pus Punei (December–January), young men and women come together in traditional attire to perform the Rinjodi. The girls wear knee-length traditional sarees, adorned with bead and seed necklaces, and decorate their hair with flowers. The boys wear dhotis along with shirts and turbans.

The dance is a lively and rhythmic group performance, with boys not only dancing but also playing musical instruments. The Dundunga, a fiddle made from wild gourd, sets the tone, accompanied by drums, cymbals, and flutes. The Rinjodi dance beautifully reflects the cultural harmony, youthful energy, and artistic spirit of the Paroja people.