Amazon India link for TMYS Review December 2024 is available here.
(Available worldwide via Amazon)
*****************
NOTE FROM THE SERIES EDITOR by Dr. Sourav Banerjee
**************
TMYS Review, a quarterly imprint of www.tellmeyourstory.biz (TMYS), began in 2020 with the vision of popularising stories from personal experiences and academic research. Diverse themes covered under TMYS Review are conscious about documenting women's history of a generation because for every subject, every topic, women have a different story to tell which points towards all those aspects that the society as a whole and people individually must take note and respond to. The effort has been recognised by global thought leaders and universities with their generous participation and/or collaborations. TMYS Review works on sparking gender sensitivity by engaging a community of emerging and established scholars/writers through creative writing and critical thinking. The primary audience comprises of students – the future torchbearers and other literary enthusiasts, who are constantly inspiring and moulding the world with their words.
**************
EDITORIAL By Dr. Stella Chitralekha Biswas (Project Lead)
**************
Culture is dynamic, always in a continuous process of adaptation “by which the existing orders of society, that is, its social, spiritual and material civilization is transformed from one type to another” (Malinowski 51). In an era of globalized interconnectedness, cultural changes and intersections have increased in magnitude and the cultural landscapes of tribal communities have also been evolving at a remarkable pace. The process of cross-culturalization— the blending and exchange of cultural values that happens when diverse groups come into close contact, exchanging values, customs, and ways of life, particularly through technical, industrial, professional, financial and mercantile developments— has ushered in both opportunities and challenges for these indigenous communities worldwide. And this process is often complex. As they interact with dominant, globalized cultures, tribal societies face pressures that both challenge and enrich their traditional identities. Cross-culturalization is often intensified through migration, media exposure, and formal education. Indigenous and tribal communities, such as the Navajo in North America, the Maasai in East Africa, the Aboriginal groups in Australia, or the various groups of Adivasis in India typically maintain worldviews that prioritize deep connections to land, spirituality, and community values. They oftentimes rely on oral traditions, sustainable living, and collective welfare over individual pursuits. However, modern pressures emphasize upon economic development, technological progress, and individualism—values that can clash with traditional principles, as a result of which cross-cultural influences create a tension between preserving heritage and adapting to modern societal norms. While education, healthcare, and economic integration can improve quality of life, the risks of cultural dilution, identity loss and degradation of eco-consciousness requires careful, community-led solutions to balance tradition and modernity.
**************
Short Stories
**************
Author: Malini Nair
The raw, vibrant rhythm of the Dhol1 echoed through the snow-clad beauty of the Himachal valley. Sunita Kumari wore a glittering red saree, the pallu demurely draped over her head. Her dark and luminous eyes stared unafraid, unsmiling. Tendrils of brown hair sneaked out of her pallu2, as if in defiance. Her flushed cheeks highlighted her light complexion while the soft features added an earthy allure to her appearance. The red and green bangles on her delicate wrists were prepared for her wedding. Her anklets tinkled with a note of melancholy. Despite the strength she seemed to radiate, her eyes displayed a vulnerability. She knew she had to embrace her new life with open arms.
Sunita Kumari was moving from one poor household in Dadahu Village in Sirmaur to another. What other options did poor villagers have? She wondered. The land was unyielding, locked by snow for months, and required constant and extreme hard work. Food was scarce. Her parents could do with the bride price her future husband's family managed to pay them.
The groom arrived with his family. The villagers received them with respect and gathered for a meal to celebrate the occasion. The aroma of spices wafted into the cold mountain air. The village women, decked in their traditional best, gathered around the baraatis3, singing energetic wedding songs in full-throated voices. The glistening snow was the only wedding decoration. The mountains watched sentinels of age-old customs.
---------------------------------------------------------
Author: Sreelekha Chatterjee
Anshula paces up and down the room. The sky darkens outside with obstreperous clouds, while the shadow of the evening descends on the careworn mother. A storm is brewing up. Anytime, the rain will commence. Will her fifteen-year-old daughter, Phulmoni, arrive with the good news or will her identity as a Santhal girl come in her way?
A pounding on the front door breaks into her thoughts. She rushes to open the door. Phulmoni walks in quietly, mud smeared on her uniform. Anshula senses her heart skipping a beat. Has her daughter been denied the privilege that she deserves?
“Dolop dolop rakapakata4. The rain will go on for the next few hours, Ayo5.” Phulmoni says while untying her shoelaces, her face like the grim, surly clouds in the sky. “What’s there for dinner? Phakphak rengejinkana6.” Phulmoni is restless like a hungry child, as she looks inside the aluminum pot. “Boiled rice, green chillies and salt!” She chortles, fetching an earthen plate from the rack. She loves the simplicity of that food.
---------------------------------------------------------
Author: Surbhi Sharma
It all begins in the beautiful waters of the Bay of Bengal, where lies a mysterious archipelago known as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Amidst its lush greenery and pristine beaches, a tale unfolds, weaving together elements of adventure, romance, and supernatural intrigue.
Aviral and Riya Panikkar, are a young Indian couple from the vibrant southern region of the country. Eager to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, they embark on a journey to explore the untamed beauty of the Andaman Islands. Little do they know that their adventure will test their relationship in ways they never imagined. After spending time at the serene beaches and deafening clubs, the couple decides to explore more. Their journey takes them to one of the most remote and dangerous islands in the archipelago, where the dense jungle conceals ancient secrets and hidden dangers. The government of India has banned it from any human activities. They still go there by hiring two fishermen. The fishermen drop them on the shore and return in a hurry as they seem to have seen something in the woods of the island. Aviral and Riya are, however, mesmerized.
**************
Interviews
**************
Dr. Abdelseid Hamid Sharafeldin
Dr. Jon Reyhner
Dr. Kasi Eswarappa
Dr. Kim Anderson
**************
Essays
**************
Author: Sunanda Basu
RE-FASHIONING TRIBAL WOMANHOOD: Exploration of Excerpts from Lakshman Gaikwad’s Uchalya and Lakshman Mane’s Upara
Abstract: ‘Low class’ or ‘less civilized’ is the general view that people maintain regarding the human societies who are uninitiated to certain urban systems. Such connotations derive a sense of the double marginalization of tribal women, especially, where they face exploitation due to their caste as well as their sex. However, it is often unfathomable that in spite of all the judgements that the mainstream societies may shower, the tribal women enjoy equal opportunity compared to their male counterparts in their day-to-day activities ranging from marriage to working for a living. This idea of feminism has been imbued within these nomadic tribes even before the perception of feminism came into existence. Despite lacking the knowledge of ‘feminism’ in the literal sense, the women feel at par with their tribesmen. Such privileges are rare for the upper caste women while defining their identity. The supposedly ‘civilized’ circles find their women bound rigidly within their caste ethics maintaining the role of the grihalaxmi7. Such progressive attitudes of the marginalized caste and their associated tales are often overshadowed due to the lack of translation of their native narratives that explore feminist validation. The autobiographical excerpts from Laxman Gaikwad’s Uchalya and Laxman Mane’s Upara collected in G.N Devy’s Painted Words: An Anthology of Tribal Literature, highlight translated stories that corroborate identities of tribal women bringing them forward to the globalized platform. The paper analyses the radical attitude that tribal women of these stories uphold through the lens of tribal literature studies discourses and feminist studies.
Keywords: tribe, feminism, marginalized, caste, autobiographical.
---------------------------------------------------------
Author: Mitali Mondal
PRESERVING HERITAGE: Tribal Languages and Culture, And The Impact of Tourism and Modernization.
Abstract: ‘Low class’ or ‘less civilized’ is the general view that people maintain regarding the human societies who are uninitiated to certain urban systems. Such connotations derive a sense of the double marginalization of tribal women, especially, where they face exploitation due to their caste as well as their sex. However, it is often unfathomable that in spite of all the judgements that the mainstream societies may shower, the tribal women enjoy equal opportunity compared to their male counterparts in their day-to-day activities ranging from marriage to working for a living. This idea of feminism has been imbued within these nomadic tribes even before the perception of feminism came into existence.
Keywords: Indigenous tribes, traditions, languages, ecosystem, conservation, livelihoods.
---------------------------------------------------------
Author: Disha Shetty
THE SPREAD OF WARLI ART AND STRUGGLES OF THE TRIBAL ARTISTS IN MAHARASHTRA
Abstract: Warli art, a vibrant tapestry woven by a marginalized community, offers a glimpse into their rich ancestral heritage. Known as the "Oldest Bhoomiputras”, this community’s creative communication is exemplary – spanning from sharing a glimpse of life to nature to activism and more. However, this artistic expression is often overshadowed by the limitations imposed upon them. This essay shares a brief background on Tribal Communities around the nation and draws attention towards the geo-political happenings in the society which affects them. A special focus on the intricate details of Warli culture introduces a stark reality: the silencing of voices and the geopolitical forces that have shaped their lives. In the words of Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri, "True democracy can never come through untruthful and violent means." (cite) This sentiment resonates deeply with the Warli community, whose struggles for recognition and empowerment have been met with diverse challenges. Their art carrying the history of their experiences and feelings, their happiness and discomfort, celebrates the resilience of the human spirit while simultaneously narrating stories of hardship and struggles.
Keywords: Warli, Warli painting, tribals, Jivya Soma Mashe, tribal art, tribal artists.
---------------------------------------------------------
Author: Joe Jacintha
THE CRAFT OF THE LAMBANI TRIBES: and Their Relevance in the Cultural Tapestry of India
Abstract: India is home to an extraordinary array of cultures, each with its own distinct heritage, passed down through generations. Among these, the Lambanis stand out as a tribal community renowned for their vibrant traditions and remarkable craftsmanship, especially their distinctive embroidery using mirrors, sequins, shells, and coins. Predominantly found in Maharashtra and parts of Karnataka, the Lambanis are deeply rooted in their rich cultural history, which is reflected in the intricate designs on their garments, such as lehengas and kanchalis, as well as in sarees, bags, and other textiles they create for trade. By exploring the Lambanis, this essay delves into their unique traditions, craftsmanship, and the significance of their artistic heritage, offering insights into the broader cultural tapestry of India.
Keywords: Tribe, Indigenous people, Lambanis, Lepo embroidery.
**************
PANEL DISCUSSIONS UNDER THE PROJECT
The Consolidated Link: all panel discussions can be accessed here
https://www.tellmeyourstory.biz/newentries/archive-cross-culturalisation-of-tribal-communities
---------------------------------------------------------
Project Assistant & Author: Antara Patro
ROLE OF PROFESSIONAL AND VOCATIONAL EDUCATION IN CROSS-CULTURALIZATION OF THE TRIBAL COMMUNITY
One of the primary consequences of cross-culturalization is the erosion of tribal identity. Traditional customs, languages, and social structures of tribal communities can be undermined if they adopt elements of the dominant culture/s. For instance, the use of Indigenous languages may decline as younger generations learn and use more widely spoken languages for economic or social advantages. Traditional practices and rituals may also be abandoned or altered to fit new lifestyles imposed or adopted from external influences. However, cross-culturalization is not potentially detrimental. ...
Rather than limiting the critical approach of the organized panels to certain generalized images, ideas and theoretical frameworks, the discussions attempted to understand tribal culture and identity through multiple perspectives. In order to study the first sub-theme – ‘Role of Professional and Vocational Education in Cross Culturalization’ – four topics were selected for discussions and deliberation:
- Educational Initiatives for Tribal Empowerment
- Role of Special Educational Institutions in the Promulgation of Tribal Culture and Identity
- Professional Training Augmenting Economic Opportunities for Indigenous Women
- Role of Vocational Education in Transmitting and Mainstreaming Tribal Culture
Delegates from various parts of the globe belonging to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, of diverse professional backgrounds and ideological comportments came together to exchange their observations on these topics, thereby adding to their relevance.
---------------------------------------------------------
Project Assistant & Author: Nishita Biswas
ROLE OF LITERARY AND ARTISTIC TRANSLATIONS IN THE CROSS-CULTURALIZATION OF THE TRIBAL COMMUNITY
There have been countless hands who opted to pick a quill, when they actually wanted to lift up a gun. The voiceless have tried to find a voice by choosing the former. When we think about ‘Tribals’, the first image that comes to the mind is that of ill-dressed, ill-bred people, who dwell in the depth of forestlands- primitive, untamed and violent. How long has it been, since the thought was questioned or changed? Each tribal community is unique in their own ways, each possessing a distinct culture that is steeped in traditions, artistic expressions and oral histories that have evolved over centuries. ...
The topics for the panel discussions under the second sub-theme, ‘Role of Literary and Artistic Translations in Cross-Culturalization’ were devised to study the nuanced reconciliation with the original narratives of Indigenous communities. Delegates from around the world, irrespective of their professional background and fields of expertise, gathered to share their insights and observations on the following topics. Their joint enthusiasm and knowledge helped in intensifying their relevance:
- Breaking Stereotypes and Fair Portrayal of Tribal Culture in Mainstream Media
- Tribal Feminism: Stories Validating the Identities of Tribal Women for Global Recognition
- Indigenous Knowledge Systems Influencing Sustainable Development, Resource Management and Cultural Heritage
- Development of Hybrid Identities: Impact of Urbanization and Migration on Tribal Artists
---------------------------------------------------------
Project Assistant & Author: Barsha Mondal
ROLE OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONSCIOUSNESS IN THE CROSS-CULTURALIZATION OF TRIBAL COMMUNITIES
With its rich ethnic population, traditional customs, and distinct artistic and literary practices, the Indian sub-continent serves as a prominent example of ‘unity in diversity.’ Naturally, her vast landscape with unique geographical features, is home to several hundreds of tribal communities who cohabit this space with the mainstream society. However, due to several factors such as sociocultural discrimination, the caste system, and the dispossession of human rights, it has been witnessed that the tribals of India live in constant strife with the governmental forces...
To further address the various nuances of cross-Culturalization, its pros and cons, and gather an in-depth understanding of the various processes that are involved in it, further sub-divisions have been made. Accordingly, the third subtheme titled ‘Role of Environmental Consciousness in Cross Culturalization’ comprised four topics that have been deliberated upon:
- Sustainable Livelihood and Lifestyle Practices of Tribal Communities Augmenting Commercialisation
- Medicine, Health and Wellness: Eco-Conscious Production Principles of Tribal Manufacturers
- Environmental Activism and Tribal Movements Mainstreaming Tribal Rights and Sensitivities
- Pantheistic Worldview and Environmental Consciousness in Tribal Art and Literature
*****************
Amazon India link for TMYS Review December 2024 is available here.
(Available worldwide via Amazon)
*****************
1. Dhol - A rustic percussion instrument played for celebrations and religious festivals.
2. Pallu - the top end of the saree worn on the shoulder or around the head.
3. Baraatis - The grooms family and friends
4. Dolop dolop rakapakata: Dense clouds have arisen.
5. Ayo: Mother
6. Phakphak rengejinkana: I am very hungry.
7 The tradition of comparing the women with Goddess Lakshmi, expecting them to bring prosperity to the homes through flawless maintenance of the households.