The Deuris are a branch of the Chutiyas which belong to the Bodo race. The Deuris are one of the four divisions of the Chutiyas who reigned eastern Assam prior to the advent of the Ahoms. The Deuris were the priests of the Chutiyas. At present the Deuris are mainly found in Lakhimpur and Sivasagar district. They are bilingual and speak both Assamese and Deuri language.
Deuris’ villages are generally found in the riverine areas hang fertile arable land. The houses are constructed on a bamboo platform raised about five feet above the ground, and they face east to west direction, with the doors opening to the east. Agriculture is the main source of income of the Deuris and in many Deuri villages there are traditional community weaving centres of the girls.
Deuris belonging to the Tengaponia sub-clan do not take mutton or flesh of the goat as it is forbidden according to a legend of the clan. They prefer rice beer to water evenwhile quenching thirst. The Deuris attach much importance and mystery to their religion. Their priests are Bor Deuri, Soru Deuri, Bor Bharali and Soru Bharali only. The term ‘Deuri’ appears to be a later coinage derived from ‘Deva’ which means A God. The Deoris observe Bihu during the month of Bohag. They also celebrate Magh Bihu. The Deuris have Deodhani who predicts about the prosperity or malady of the villages through the oracle.