Background and objectives: A positive association between body mass index and systolic blood pressure as well as body mass index and diastolic blood pressure is well documented by many studies. This study examines blood pressure and body mass index in a tribal population namely the Bhatra of Chhattisgarh.

Material and Methods: A total of 144 adult subjects (men= 65; women= 79) were randomly selected. Body mass index cut-off value for Asian people was considered as recommended by the WHO expert group (WHO 2000). While, blood pressure values were classified according to WHO expert committee (WHO 1996).

Results: This study suggests a positive relationship between body mass index and blood pressure. Level of blood pressure was relatively lower both in men and women who had normal body mass index in comparison with overweight and obese individuals.

Conclusion: Traditional populations all over the world are generally characterised with low level of blood pressure. The Bhatra being a tribal population show considerably higher level of blood pressure. This trend is corroborative of changing socioeconomic environment and blood pressure level among them.