About Us
TDF Reflections
These essays form a continuing editorial inquiry into custodianship, authorship, and the ethical future of tribal knowledge in India. Written at the intersection of design, policy, economy and lived experience, they examine how knowledge is created, extracted, preserved, and valued – and who is left out of that equation. Together, they argue for a shift from symbolic inclusion to structural responsibility, and from heritage as display to knowledge as shared capital.
November 27, 2025
What if India’s most advanced innovations are still waiting beneath our feet? This article explores how tribal epistemology can reshape ideas of innovation, sustainability, and prosperity. It is a provocation to design the future from the ground up, rooted in lived knowledge.
November 25, 2025
Decisions about communities are often made by institutions that do not represent them. This essay exposes how governance without custodianship weakens moral legitimacy in design and policy. It calls for redesigning institutions so lived consequences shape decision-making.
November 24, 2025
India measures outputs, audits funds, and tracks impact, yet often forgets to recognise people. This article argues that recognition—not reporting—will decide the future of tribal knowledge systems. Those who keep knowledge alive must finally be counted alongside what is counted.
November 23, 2025
Tribal knowledge is shared generously, but generosity should not lead to dispossession. This essay reframes sharing as a civilisational value rather than a charitable act. It asks how design can protect the ethics of giving without hollowing communities out.
November 21, 2025
Despite having the world’s largest Indigenous population, India remained absent from global Indigenous platforms for decades. This article examines what that absence reveals about representation, visibility, and institutional priorities. It also outlines what must change if India is to participate with integrity on global Indigenous stages.
November 14, 2025
Tribal knowledge underpins India’s creative, cultural, and policy economies, yet value rarely flows back to its custodians. This essay introduces the idea of a Custodianship Ledger grounded in reciprocity. It argues that every act of extraction must also become an act of return.
November 11, 2025
India invests heavily in preserving tribal heritage while avoiding economic responsibility toward its creators. This piece confronts the ethical gap between celebration and compensation. It asks how design might help convert heritage into living intellectual property that benefits its custodians.
November 10, 2025
Welfare and innovation evolved in parallel tracks in India’s development story, rarely intersecting through shared authorship. This article traces how custodianship was quietly erased from both domains. It proposes design as a possible language through which care and agency might finally be reconnected.
November 9, 2025
India built systems to protect communities and systems to produce economic value, but left custodianship out of the equation. This essay explores the missing bridge between protection and participation. It asks whether design can help restore the ethical link that policy frameworks failed to carry forward
TDF Sessions
TDF sessions are weekly sessions to interact and learn from designers and multidisciplinary domain experts from India and around the world who have been actively working for the benefit of tribal and indigenous communities. These sessions also provide a platform for members of the Tribal Design Forum to share their work and experiences as professionals.
June 25, 2023
Amidst the modern influences that often lead to the fading of tribal cultural practices, the Tetseo Sisters stand as a beacon of cultural preservation and innovation. Their deep love and commitment to their traditional songs, instruments, and costumes have not only kept their rich heritage alive but have also propelled them to global recognition as a renowned Folk Fusion act.
June 18, 2023
The film industry has frequently misrepresented Indigenous communities. Naomi Johnson discusses how imagineNATIVE supports Indigenous creators in telling their own stories, which helps correct these inaccuracies.
June 11, 2023
Sustainable fashion is an emerging initiative that is often not connected to tribal communities. Iba Mallai showcases how her brand KINIHO adopts a sustainable and ethical approach to fashion by employing the traditional techniques of northeastern tribal communities.
June 4, 2023
An aspect that often goes unnoticed in India is the architecture and planning of and for the various tribal communities, especially in the light of rapid urbanization and "development." Through her projects, Jade Kake illustrates how urban planning and tribal architecture can work together to help present and future generations stay connected to their tribal roots.
May 28, 2023
One of the areas that often go unnoticed is the food culture of tribal communities. Karen Yepthomi explores the tribal food systems of some Naga tribes, providing insights into entrepreneurship in the food sector.
May 19, 2023
In the present day, many people visit both natural and artificial attractions to enjoy amazing experiences. The Weta Workshop LBE team shares their approach to creating long-lasting, memorable experiences for visitors.
May 12, 2023
With the rise in indigenous-influenced fashion, designers often struggle to collaborate effectively with these communities. Lenora Cabili, through her brand Filip+Inna, demonstrates how designers can work with indigenous artisans and cultures to create contemporary products while maintaining cultural authenticity and respecting indigenous heritage.
May 7, 2023
In the perceived distant realm of the fashion industry from Indian tribal communities, Andrea emerges as a fervent model and actor. She ardently champions diversity and advocates for indigenous representation, bridging the gap between these worlds within the fashion and film industries.
April 28, 2023
Originating in India, chess has spread worldwide, adapting to various interpretations. Samanda Nora Pyngrope develops individual chess pieces that reflect the cultural values of the Khasi community while remaining recognizable for the broader enjoyment of the game.
February 20, 2026
With rising development there is a rise in carbon footprints and there is a need for sustainable solutions for it. Sandra Horlings shares her concept of circular economy which can be a step for a better development and that the indigenous communities and circular economy are deeply connected with each other.
February 14, 2026
With rising development there is a rise in carbon footprints and there is a need for sustainable solutions for it. Sandra Horlings shares her concept of circular economy which can be a step for a better development and that the indigenous communities and circular economy are deeply connected with each other.
January 24, 2026
With rising development there is a rise in carbon footprints and there is a need for sustainable solutions for it. Sandra Horlings shares her concept of circular economy which can be a step for a better development and that the indigenous communities and circular economy are deeply connected with each other.
February 7, 2026
With rising development there is a rise in carbon footprints and there is a need for sustainable solutions for it. Sandra Horlings shares her concept of circular economy which can be a step for a better development and that the indigenous communities and circular economy are deeply connected with each other.
March 26, 2023
With present times, people have forgotten about tribal governance and autonomy. Aashish Xaxa delves into the intricate dynamics of tribal land governance and autonomy, shedding light on the impact of legal frameworks in areas like Shillong and Jharkhand.
March 26, 2023
With present times, people have forgotten about tribal governance and autonomy. Aashish Xaxa delves into the intricate dynamics of tribal land governance and autonomy, shedding light on the impact of legal frameworks in areas like Shillong and Jharkhand.
December 19, 2021
Design is often limited to designing a certain product only like textiles, clothes, accessories, digital deigns, etc. and the vast opportunities of developing communities through design is usually not taken into consideration. Juhi Pandey talks about the immense possibilities of community development which is influenced by design.
November 28, 2021
Often service designs are created from a producers perspectives and the customer’s perspective usually gets ignored. Dr. Ted Matthews shares his idea of designing services which greatly favors customer’s perspectives giving fan experiences.
August 19, 2022
City and Rural tourism is mostly seen at the center of tourism movement and indigenous tourism is often left out. Jean-Philippe Le Moigne shares what Indigneous tourism is and how one should go about it.
January 28, 2023
Many remain unaware of the rich tapestry of knowledge surrounding textile heritage and its cultural significance, where each form and color bears profound meaning within the community. Rubashi Brahma sheds light on the transformative power of design and how it can play a pivotal role in fostering a deeper understanding of these intricacies.
November 7, 2025
This essay reframes tribal creativity as knowledge capital rather than cultural heritage. It argues that when authorship and equity are restored to their rightful custodians, economic justice can return home. Ulgulan is presented not as symbolism, but as a necessary shift in mindset for policymakers, institutions, and tribal professionals alike.
November 9, 2025
India’s tribal communities have shaped the nation’s imagination, material culture, and wisdom, yet remain among its poorest citizens. This article examines the paradox at the heart of that reality, showing how cultural celebration has replaced economic inclusion. It asks what genuine repair would look like if justice—not charity—guided policy and design.
November 9, 2025
India built systems to protect communities and systems to produce economic value, but left custodianship out of the equation. This essay explores the missing bridge between protection and participation. It asks whether design can help restore the ethical link that policy frameworks failed to carry forward
November 10, 2025
Welfare and innovation evolved in parallel tracks in India’s development story, rarely intersecting through shared authorship. This article traces how custodianship was quietly erased from both domains. It proposes design as a possible language through which care and agency might finally be reconnected.
November 11, 2025
India invests heavily in preserving tribal heritage while avoiding economic responsibility toward its creators. This piece confronts the ethical gap between celebration and compensation. It asks how design might help convert heritage into living intellectual property that benefits its custodians.
November 14, 2025
Tribal knowledge underpins India’s creative, cultural, and policy economies, yet value rarely flows back to its custodians. This essay introduces the idea of a Custodianship Ledger grounded in reciprocity. It argues that every act of extraction must also become an act of return.
November 21, 2025
Despite having the world’s largest Indigenous population, India remained absent from global Indigenous platforms for decades. This article examines what that absence reveals about representation, visibility, and institutional priorities. It also outlines what must change if India is to participate with integrity on global Indigenous stages.
November 23, 2025
Tribal knowledge is shared generously, but generosity should not lead to dispossession. This essay reframes sharing as a civilisational value rather than a charitable act. It asks how design can protect the ethics of giving without hollowing communities out.
November 24, 2025
India measures outputs, audits funds, and tracks impact, yet often forgets to recognise people. This article argues that recognition—not reporting—will decide the future of tribal knowledge systems. Those who keep knowledge alive must finally be counted alongside what is counted.
November 4, 2022
Tourism has been widely connected to a luxurious lifestyle. David Leventhal shares how luxury, tourism and sustainability can go hand in hand by connecting tourism with local communities.
August 26, 2024
Tribal Design Forum in partnership with the Adivasi Academy and Bhasha announces a unique and customised One-Month Residential Design and Entrepreneurship Course at the Adivasi Academy, Tejgadh, Gujarat. August 26 to September 20, 2024 Are you a designer or an...
March 15, 2025
Image coutesy: Jayesh Malviya Curated Tour15-17 March, 2025 Join us for this amazing opportunity to celebrate the Rathwa way of life and witness the vibrant traditions of the Kawant Ger Mela Tribal Design Forum invites you to an exclusive, curated...
September 7, 2025
7-14 September, 2025 Tribal Academy, TejgadhOrganized by Tribal Design Forum Tribal Design Forum invites you for a one-week immersive residential course at the Tribal Academy, Tejgadh, Gujarat. If you are passionate about preserving tribal heritage, empowering indigenous artisans, and unlocking...
October 11, 2022
Photographs have always been used to present the visual image of something. Jero Gonzales, shares how he uses photographs to create an audio and moving image.
February 11, 2022
Little is known of the indigenous Peruvian groups and the indigenous world views and people's responsibility towards the environment. Uriel Ukumary Montúfar, through photography tries to convey the customs and rituals of the indigenous groups and their close relationship with the environment.
December 5, 2021
The Native Americans are still believed to be stereotypically dressed in regalia’s and often ignore the idea of them normally dressed in modern clothes like any other person. Tailyr Irvine tries to remove the stereotype stuck onto the Native Americans and how the laws enforced by the colonisers are the cause of restricting them within their community.
October 10, 2021
Unable to reconnect with one’s culture and community has been an increasing phenomenon in the present generation. Alex King shares her journey of Photography and how it is a powerful tool which has helped her in finding a way to have connections and contacts around the world.
October 3, 2021
The people residing in Makoko are undervalued and the government is trying to demolish the place they are residing in and the truth about the place is often twisted or greatly misinterpreted. But Akintunde Akinleye talks about the hidden truth that can be uncovered only by visiting the place and his experience of uncovering truths of such places through photography.
June 25, 2023
Amidst the modern influences that often lead to the fading of tribal cultural practices, the Tetseo Sisters stand as a beacon of cultural preservation and innovation. Their deep love and commitment to their traditional songs, instruments, and costumes have not only kept their rich heritage alive but have also propelled them to global recognition as a renowned Folk Fusion act.
April 23, 2023
Music festivals only thought of as enjoyable events for the younger generation. Bobby Hano shares how the Ziro Music Festival not only provides a platform for audience enjoyment but also contributes to the community development of the Apatani tribe.
April 14, 2023
Each one is in some way influenced by music around us and music has many connections which people may or may not be aware of. Christof Zurn shares his findings on these intricacies of music and human behavior.
October 2, 2022
The extent of diversity in Indian indigenous music is not known to the world. Vasu Dixit shares how through PaDa project he wants the world to know the diversity and beauty of indigenous music and culture.
September 9, 2022
There are many rising indigenous artists from the Northeast India. Not Funny is such a band who have recently garnered attention with their song ‘Dance with me’
June 24, 2022
With the progressing times, it is hard to find the youth being aware of and enthusiastic of their folk music and instruments. The band Koloma shares their ambition to make people aware of the Tripuri folk music and instruments through their folk fusion songs.
June 10, 2022
The young generation is gradually moving away from their roots and forgetting where they come from. Takar Nabam shares his experience of reconnecting with his roots through music.
June 3, 2022
People often take music as a hobby and not pursue it career. John Mpamei shares how hobbies can be pursued as one’s career just by believing in oneself and staying positive in every situation.
May 27, 2022
The music industry seems something foreign and unattainable. Apurva Tamang shares his experience in the music industry and as a singer- songwriter.
March 13, 2022
The Adivasi and Dalit children are often ignored by the Indian education system due to poverty coming in the way of their education and they are unable to receive modern digitalized education like most privileged children. Padma Shri Geeta Dharmarajan tries to provide what these children lack in their education through Katha Magic Lab.
January 23, 2022
The tribal communities of India are often marginalized and stigmatized by the mainstream which prevents them to spread their wings beyond the boundaries created by others for them. Ruby Hembrom shares her journey of fighting against the stigma and the boundaries to bring forth the stories of the tribal communities of India to the mainstream.
November 27, 2022
India holds a number of diverse cultures and the products which originates from there. Hetvi Trivedi shares the India’s GI protection system which can help recognize, support and promote these products to bring socio-economic benefits to the communities.
December 11, 2022
There is a deep connection between the natural resources and tribal communities. Raja Varun is on a quest to document the relationships which the tribal communities share with the nature and the stories which lie within.
July 22, 2022
There are not many examples of innovative use of tribal traditional knowledge in the modern urban society. Manjula C. shares how the traditional knowledge of the Irulars have been helping and can help the modern society
July 8, 2022
People often relate astronomy with what has been finalized in the mainstream. Prof. Mayank Vahia shares how astronomy is amongst the great intellectual traditions of all tribes, focusing on Indian tribes.
January 30, 2022
There is a lack of knowledge about various mediums of storytelling. Allen Shaw shares his idea of how sketches can become a medium of storytelling and his journey and experience as a travelling sketching artist.
January 13, 2023
It's a common observation that handicrafts in urban areas are often intermediated by third parties lacking deep understanding of the craft or the communities behind them. Sofia Cruz's organization bridges this gap, facilitating connections between communities and sellers who appreciate both the craft and its cultural significance.
January 17, 2023
Games have frequently been perceived primarily as sources of entertainment rather than educational tools. However, Carl Peterson introduces a refreshing perspective with his culturally sensitive and engaging games. Designed to raise awareness about indigenous cultures and languages, his creations serve as interactive platforms for learning while entertaining players.
May 28, 2023
One of the areas that often go unnoticed is the food culture of tribal communities. Karen Yepthomi explores the tribal food systems of some Naga tribes, providing insights into entrepreneurship in the food sector.
April 10, 2023
Many people are aware of the nutritional benefits of millets but not about how the food systems were integrated – their self-sufficiency and sustainability. Vishala Reddy Vuyyala shares how Millet Bank aims to educate the younger generation about millets and help agrarian tribal communities.
June 12, 2022
The Indian tribal cuisine has been left unexplored and undocumented. Ashish Chopra talks about how one can discover these tribal cuisines by travelling to the tribal communities and documenting their unique cuisine.
May 29, 2022
The Indigenous food system all across the globe have been perishing with time and a lot of it have already been lost due to various reasons. Chef Sean Sherman shares his experience of reviving these diminishing indigenous food system not just in the United States but also all across the globe.
May 1, 2022
Indigenous cuisine is rapidly losing its essence as it is kept separated from the mainstream market. Raja Sharma Rymbai talks about how Slow Food and Indigenous Food Network is preserving, promoting and reviving indigenous cuisine all around the world.
April 8, 2022
The web series ‘Dream and Chaos’ has been gaining popularity for its theme and the portrayal of the contemporary lifestyle of the Northeastern India. The director Bendang Walling and actors Limasenla Jamir and Kilangtemsu Imsong talk share what went on in the making of the web series.
June 18, 2023
The film industry has frequently misrepresented Indigenous communities. Naomi Johnson discusses how imagineNATIVE supports Indigenous creators in telling their own stories, which helps correct these inaccuracies.
June 19, 2022
The media greatly lacks in proper portrayal of the Indian tribal communities. Deepak Bara shares how he and his team try to make people aware of the proper portrayal of the tribal communities and the various issues which they face.
March 11, 2022
Tribal communities of Jharkhand are not often represented or been the main protagonist of the mainstream film industry. Shishir Jha tries to break this system with his Santali feature film ‘Tortoise Under the Earth’.
September 5, 2021
The tribal communities are often described as primitive, backward and unchanged. But this is not the case, they do evolve and in no way they are primitive and backward. Tara Douglas attempts to make the tribes be accepted by the animated films. The younger generation is losing touch with the stories of their communities, therefore there is a rising need to sustain the stories to give them a new life for the new generation.
June 11, 2023
Sustainable fashion is an emerging initiative that is often not connected to tribal communities. Iba Mallai showcases how her brand KINIHO adopts a sustainable and ethical approach to fashion by employing the traditional techniques of northeastern tribal communities.
May 12, 2023
With the rise in indigenous-influenced fashion, designers often struggle to collaborate effectively with these communities. Lenora Cabili, through her brand Filip+Inna, demonstrates how designers can work with indigenous artisans and cultures to create contemporary products while maintaining cultural authenticity and respecting indigenous heritage.
May 7, 2023
In the perceived distant realm of the fashion industry from Indian tribal communities, Andrea emerges as a fervent model and actor. She ardently champions diversity and advocates for indigenous representation, bridging the gap between these worlds within the fashion and film industries.
December 18, 2022
Fashion is one of the main contributors of setting trends and also generating wastes. Anuj Sharma share how the concept of Button Masala is both fashionable and sustainable.
September 18, 2022
Fashion has been a greatly influential part of one’s life. Glenda Yanez shares how indigenous high fashion clothes spreads a sense of equality among indigenous women in Bolivia.
July 3, 2022
There have always been an issue of incorporating the indigenous elements into the fashion world which are appeasing. Epeli Tuibeqa talks about how in his work he tries to embody his indigenous culture from the fabric to the motifs.
May 13, 2022
With tribal arts being reinterpreted it is important to know about its origin. Gina Joseph shares how she reinterprets tribal arts together with their stories embedded in wearable art.
May 6, 2022
Many northeastern indigenous cultures and attires are diminishing because the youth are not informed about them well. Michri Sangma shares her series ‘Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow’ highlighting her Garo tribe in modern light.
December 10, 2022
There are many troubles which the rural communities of the developing countries face. Blessing Oritseweyinmi Mene shares how he tries to tackle those problems with the help of indigenous knowledge system.
November 11, 2022
There are millions of small businesses in India which do provide employment but running them proves to be difficult. Piya Bahadur shares how she and her team created MeraBills to financially and digitally empower them so that they are brought into mainstream.
October 21, 2022
Chocolates are mainly seen as a product of the western market. Germán Santillán shares that it is not the case for the Mixtec region of Oaxaca and how this can help restore the social dynamics.
July 15, 2022
Northeastern India is full of a variety of unique indigenous produces which is not well known to others. Zeinorin Angkang shares how through a repetitive business model she is able to help the indigenous farmers there and also share the produces outside Northeastern India.
February 27, 2022
There is little knowledge of the tribal forest food system and mahuwa is often categorized as the doom of tribal community because it helps in the production of local alcohol. But Dr. Basavi Kiro shares that mahuwa is not just a raw material for alcohol but it also has many medicinal properties which if used correctly would bring about great change in the tribal community.
December 23, 2022
Higher education and community development go hand in hand in the present times. Nilanjana Moitra shares how the Indian higher education system fits in the overall development of a student from a tribal community.
October 30, 2022
Social work is widely appreciated but people do not go deeper into what it actually is. Dr. Bipin Jojo shares what is social work and the history of tribes and social work.
May 8, 2022
There is not much known about active tribal institutes and what do they do. Dr. Madan Meena, the Honorary Director of Adivasi Academy gives an insight to the Adivasi Academy and some of their noteworthy activities.
April 10, 2022
Schools are often pictured as a place with certain rules and someone teaching the children to follow those rules and the existing education system. Abhijit Sinha talks about an alternative system where the learners are the educators and there is no need for an external person to guide them.
April 1, 2023
Tribal communities are frequently perceived as disinterested in economic affairs. However, Jean Dreze sheds light on the distinctive economic dynamics within these communities, revealing a landscape characterized by both challenges and opportunities.
August 12, 2022
Deepa Kozhisseri shares her research on the communities living in the Attapadi Hills and how their dependency on nature has gradually changed with time.
September 4, 2022
The Rights of Nature and the Principle of Good Living are terms which are gaining popularity in recent years. Jenny García Ruales shares how the concept of Good Living came into being, how it is intertwined with the rights of nature and the indigenous communities.
June 17, 2022
Sustainable Development is something which is being widely discussed in recent times. Anugrah Pandi talks about how the Lepcha tribe has been living sustainably for a very long time and how these practices should be preserved.
November 7, 2021
The present society is greatly influenced by the western culture which overshadows our cultural identity and has led to the fading away of the exclusivity of the identities. The word uncivilized is often used for those people who have stuck to their roots/identity, and often considered uneducated or backward. Roohani Sawhney shares how through The Last Avatar, the prevailing idea of identity and backwardness has been countered.
July 25, 2021
A designer can play a major role to highlight the intertwined relationship between nature and tribal communities. Anirban Dutta Gupta, shared his experiences of working in the Andaman’s highlighting the indigenous knowledge system of the Onges that saved the community from the tsunami devastation. He presented the redevelopment solution of housing through co-designing with the hunting and gathering community.
February 17, 2022
When making policies for a community the needs and demands of the community is usually misinterpreted or not understood completely. Sruthi Krishnan tackles this issue with the help of play designed to help the policy makers and the communities to interact and share information among themselves tacitly.
May 19, 2023
In the present day, many people visit both natural and artificial attractions to enjoy amazing experiences. The Weta Workshop LBE team shares their approach to creating long-lasting, memorable experiences for visitors.
April 28, 2023
Originating in India, chess has spread worldwide, adapting to various interpretations. Samanda Nora Pyngrope develops individual chess pieces that reflect the cultural values of the Khasi community while remaining recognizable for the broader enjoyment of the game.
March 24, 2023
Amidst modernization, Shakuntala Marndi highlights the tribal community's close bond with nature, urging for its preservation.
December 4, 2022
Toys and games are often seen only as a source of entertainment, but not many know that they can be used as a powerful tool for sharing information. Kartik Butola shares his experience of planning and designing toys to share some knowledge about different tribal communities.
December 2, 2022
There is a lack of tribal language learning material in the urban spaces. Sneh Lata Soreng shares some of her projects which focuses on helping urban tribal children to learn their language and culture through toys and stories.
November 24, 2022
Museums play an important role in telling stories about community, cultures and lifestyle, same for tribal indigenous community. Nikita Desai shares how to create interactive and immersive experiences for the visitor at the museum and other location with the emergence of new technologies, multimedia and mix-media.
September 30, 2022
Indigenous motifs have rarely been used in the field of sports and athletics. Fiona Clarke shares her journey to designing indigenous T20 Australian Cricket jersey.
September 16, 2022
The fashion industry is known their high number of wastes. Karishma Shahani Khan talks about how, through the labels Ka-Sha and Heart to Haat, she is trying to promote upcycling and recycling fashion.
September 11, 2022
Tribal communities are known for their beautiful and unique crafts. Anurag Rana shares how these crafts can help in crafting the livelihoods of those indigenous communities.
December 16, 2022
Even though India is very famous for the diverse variety of a number of festivals, still not much is known about the tribal festivals in the mainstream. Upendra Sinha shares his experience in documenting tribal festivals in Chhattisgarh.
October 17, 2022
Cultural events are only seen as events which one visits for an experience. Ivan M. Petrovic shares how such cultural events can help boost the local economy and much more.
September 25, 2022
Many indigenous cultures are considered mystic and fill people with awe. Sejal Rathwa demystifies one such indigenous cultures and shares more about Pithora paintings.
August 26, 2022
Tribal tattoos have recently in trend with the younger generation. Mo Naga shares how these tattoos are something sacred and have been passed down from generation to generation.
March 20, 2022
Many of the tribal festivals are getting forgotten due to the lack of enthusiasm and knowledge of the festivals in the modern generation. Gunjal Ikir Munda and Anupam Purty are attempting to revive such festivals by igniting enthusiasm in the new generation by re-introducing the activities associated with these festivals.
February 3, 2023
In present times, the importance of sustainability and the preservation of tradition is increasingly evident. Diego Olivero sheds light on the profound impact that local craftsmanship and traditional techniques can have in addressing these pressing concerns
October 21, 2022
Indigenous communities, handicrafts and weaving are often interrelated. Lucie Tailhades shares how Trend Ethics works with indigenous communities around weaving.
April 22, 2022
Rangskhembor shares some of his works, most of which are from the series ‘Turmeric and Ash’ and some from his other projects.
August 14, 2022
Posters which were popular in previous era are not as much popular now. Felipe Taborda shares how Posters can be used as a powerful source of communication in the present times.
July 1, 2022
Luxury and luxury brands are a popular thing but people don’t know much about what goes in it. Philippe Mihailovich shares the history and present practices of luxury and luxury brands.
May 22, 2022
The history of tribal communities in India is an unknown area to a large group of people. Dr. Ganesh Devy talks about the tribal communities in India and what Adivasis have faced since the colonial times to make people aware of the tribal communities.
November 20, 2022
Various international organizations claim that indigenous communities are critical in the mitigation of climate change but very rarely do we see a clear and comprehensive connection made that would illustrate this point in greater depth. Nonette Royo talks about why and how indigenous communities are crucial to climate change.
January 8, 2023
In the face of increasing urbanization, a growing number of people find themselves distanced from the rich tapestry of their ancestral roots and community bonds. Alyen Foning shares how she utilizes art as a powerful medium to bridge the gap and rekindle the flame of connection with the stories and wisdom of our forebears.
November 18, 2022
“Art and culture are nonetheless vital, essential even, to what it means to be human” (Astra Taylor). Saheb Ram Tudu shares how he carves Santhali culture through different forms of art.
July 29, 2022
The existence of Khovar and Sohrai murals of Hazaribagh is not well known to the people. Justin Imam shares how those cave arts were explored and how he and his family took different measures to popularize the Murals and the Khovar and Sohrai art of that region.
November 21, 2021
There is lack of promotion of products made by tribal communities. Lisa Cahill shares her experience of promoting tribal products through exhibitions, talks and events.
September 26, 2021
Representing indigenous communities through contemporary art to help in letting the world know about the community more. Danie Mellor shares his work inspired by infrareds which bring out the hidden stories in the photographs.
June 4, 2023
An aspect that often goes unnoticed in India is the architecture and planning of and for the various tribal communities, especially in the light of rapid urbanization and "development." Through her projects, Jade Kake illustrates how urban planning and tribal architecture can work together to help present and future generations stay connected to their tribal roots.
November 6, 2022
Museums have often only non-living objects to showcase the history of tribal/adivasi communities in India. Devesh Mishra shares how a tribal eco-village can provide as a living museum which would provide a better understanding of tribal communities.
October 14, 2022
The misconceptions around mud construction prevails in the contemporary times. Joelle Eyeson talks about how modern day mud construction are both sustainable and an extension of the community’s culture.
October 7, 2022
Sustainable environment has been a common occurring topic in the present times. Ankur Choksi shares how local craftsmanship, architecture and design can help achieve sustainable environment.
August 27, 2022
When building something for the indigenous communities, their ideas and views regarding the structure are often ignored. Wanda Dalla Costa shares how IDC works together with indigenous students and communities to create for them.
August 21, 2022
In this modern era there is a lack of indigenous elements in the modern architectures. Jefa Greenaway shares how he and his team work together to incorporate the indigenous elements in the modern day structures
September 19, 2021
The modern architecture with cement and bricks greatly contribute to the increasing carbon footprints and there is a need for a sustainable alternative method. Mud houses usually have been compared to the modern buildings and portrayed as inferior to them. Swati Sushmita Lakra shares her idea of modern mud architecture which can not only decrease the carbon footprints but is also a great sustainable solution for both man and nature.
October 28, 2022
In the present generation people are fascinated with robotics and Prasun Basu shares robotics, prosthetics and cutting edge technology can make storytelling more compelling and exciting.
April 3, 2022
Designing characters for a certain story is quite a difficult task. Vaibhav Kumaresh shares his experience of designing characters for short animations and how to design them.
April 1, 2022
Often local characters with contemporary issues are not seen in the world of literature. Sentilong Ozukum provides his audience with novels dealing with contemporary issues through the characters which the locals can recognise as themselves.
February 13, 2022
There has been a lack of animated content made by Indians for the children since the introduction of channels for children and what is available is still lacking. Longbir Ingti Kathar shares his experience as an animator in the Indian Animation Industry and the challenges and solutions to the lack of animated Indian content for the children.
Dr. Sonajharia Minz
Dr. Sonajharia Minz has recently been jointly appointed to the prestigious position of UNESCO Chair in Transforming Indigenous Knowledge
Prof. Virginius Xaxa
Virginius Xaxa is a visiting professor at the Institute for Human Development (IHD), New Delhi. Prior to this, he was a professor at Tezpur University.
Dr Madan Meena
Dr Madan Meena is a visual artist and researcher. He has worked extensively with artists and craftspersons from local communities in Rajasthan and Gujarat
Jero Gonzalez
Jero Gonzales (Cusco, Perú) is a graduate of the Centro de la Imagen (Lima, Perú). After finishing his studies, he returned to Cusco
Dr. Bipin Jojo
Dr. Bipin Jojo is Professor in the Centre for Social Justice and Governance, School of Social Work at Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai.
Dr. Amy Parent
Dr. Amy Parent’s Nisga’a name is Noxs Ts’aawit (Mother of the Raven Warrior Chief named Ts’awit). On her mother’s side of the family, she is from the House of Ni’isjoohl
TDF Projects
Special projects have been initiated, planned and executed by the Tribal Design Forum to create awareness about tribal culture and tribal communities in India – both through online engagements and offline.
April 4, 2021
Textile Design student from NID Ahmedabad, Aishwarya Nanda, revisits her Oraon community in Gumla, Jharkhand to rediscover the culture and interrelationships of the community with nature, documenting her experiences and observations, while also exploring the textile traditions and heritage along with brainstorming on possible opportunities.
April 4, 2021
Textile Design student from NID Ahmedabad, Meisen Jamir, revisits her Ao Naga community to rediscover the culture and interrelationships of the community with nature, documenting her experiences and observations, while also exploring the textile traditions and heritage along with brainstorming on possible opportunities.
April 4, 2021
Studio Predeliction, Kohima engaged with photographers commissioned by TDF to create a photo essay on the lives of the artisans of the craft cluster in Choklangan and also undertake the visual documentation of the traditional process of nettle yarn making, from the forests to the finished product.
August 16, 2021
Ajam Emba is a slow food eatery and training center serving Adivasi (indigenous) food, promoting indigenous entrepreneurs and organic farmers in Ranchi. Jharkhand. To celebrate its third anniversary and to support an indigenous enterprise, TDF graphic designer and brand consultant, Anupam Purty did a visual rebranding of the restaurant along with the design of the basic communication collateral.
January 3, 2022
Due to the long Pandemic a lot of tribal artists were found to be facing great difficulty in earning a living. FroggMag, Delhi NCR and TDF took the initiative to help these artists by organizing an Online Sale of Paintings by Gond Artists. 40 of the 64 paintings on display were sold during this onlin sale.
January 3, 2022
There is a growing gap between the rural and the urban society and people of the urban society are unaware of the vast variety of tribal products. TDF organized a Tribal Market Fair on 3rd January 2022 in Takra, Khunti, to promote tribal products to both the rural and urban communities. The empanelment of the participating designers and enterprises with TRIFED was facilitated by TDF.
August 9, 2021
To celebrate the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples in 2021, TDF organised an online quiz contest to highlight the cultural diversity and vibrancy of the tribal communities in India. The winner, Abhijit Munda, from Ranchi won the first prize and earned himself two tickets for a three night paid trip to Goa, sponsored by India Tourism Mumbai.
October 29, 2021
There are not many photographic representations or visual resources on tribals or tribal culture in India readily available. TDF organized the Tribal Heritage of India Photography Contest, inviting photographers working with the tribal communities to showcase their work and the vast diversity of tribal culture. A select panel of leading photographers from around the world, working with indigenous communities, was set up to evaluate the entries.
TDF Open Studios
TDF Open Studios are visits to studios and workspaces of our community members and associates at different locations across India to see the products, processes upclose and understand the role of design amongst local tribal communities.
Tribal Design Forum and Peshrar Durrie Handloom SHG invites you for a meetup with local designers, weavers and artisans to celebrate the tribal heritage, visual and material cult
Tribal Design Forum and Jharkhand Hip Hop Ulgulan Movement (JHHUM) invites all hip-hop enthusiasts to a Hip-Hop Cypher to explore the underground music culture of Ranchi at the TDF Open Studio in Ranchi
Tribal Design Forum and the Lepcha Friends in Siliguri invite you and your friends for a warm get together over lots of tea, coffee and freshly baked cakes to chat on anything Lepcha at the TDF Open Studio in Siliguri.
Tribal Design Forum and FroggMagg Studio invites tribal art and culture enthusiasts to a wide range of display of wide range of merchandise, stationery, jewellery games, puzzles and a meetup to celebrate the tribal heritage at the TDF Open Studio in Delhi.
Tribal Design Forum and FroggMag Studio invites tribal art and culture enthusiasts to a wide range of display of wide range of merchandise, stationery, jewellery games, puzzles and a meetup to celebrate the tribal heritage at the TDF Open Studio in Delhi.
Tribal Design Forum and Woven Threads invites you for a meetup with local designers, entrepreneurs and domain experts to celebrate the tribal heritage, visual and material culture of the Naga Tribes at the TDF Open Studio in Kohima.
Tribal Design Forum and JUMP invites young kids to discover Oraon Tribe’s Story of Creation through a Storybook Colouring session at the TDF Open Studio in Nagpur. TDF Open Studio is an initiative to explore the tribal culture of India.
TDF at Various Events
Tribal Design Forum keenly participates and contributes in conversations at various events and platforms that are organised for constructive purposes especially in discourses that are cognizant or are open to understanding the impact that art, design and other creative professions can contribute towards the benefit of tribal communities in India.
On January 26th, 2024, amidst the vibrant ambiance of the Kala Ghoda Art Festival in Mumbai India.The Tribal Design Forum participated in a thought-provoking panel discussion titled "A Forest in the City."
One-day workshop on Adivasi Identity, Culture and Traditional Knowledge at IIT Gandhinagar organised by the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, IIT Gandhinagar on 3rd November 2023.
April 20, 2023
April 20, 2023
April 20, 2023
April 20, 2023
April 20, 2023