Session 12 summary
Traditional Ethnic Identities
There is a two way learning system; the first thing is- what is identity? We live in a society which is very homogenous and greatly influenced by the western culture which has overshadowed our cultural identity. This has led to the fading away of the exclusivity of the identities. Secondly, the word uncivilized is often used for those people who have stuck to their roots/identity, and often considered uneducated or backward. The word backwardness is used for these people and hence we marginalize them as they do not live up to our standards. It is up to us to understand these communities and bridge the gap by helping them. But they don’t actually need our help as they have beautifully preserved their culture and traditions. Thus, we need to redefine our definition of civilization.
When talking about traditional ethnic society we should not only focus on tribal societies, but also on communities which have a lot to offer in their natural setup and how they are prospering in this natural setup. Economically, it can be said that we are living well but socially 98% of people (according to Roohani’s research) have deteriorated and wish to go back to their original setup. Other modern society issues like women empowerment, gender equality, and environment issues, etc. have a progressive stand in the tribal community. Social institutions are also very progressive, an example to this is that a person like a doctor, porter, etc. is responsible for providing their resources to the entire village. If they are found lacking in doing so they face repercussions. Even their sustainable practices are quite progressive- their architecture, clothes, traditional knowledge, medicine, etc. are very progressive and are also scientifically proven so.
The Last Avatar
As initiated it was something different, now the project has taken the form of NGO which documents various communities. Modernity and western influence are two different things. The people from these communities are fascinated with the modern technologies and start facing a distance from their own culture. The assimilation of culture is bound to happen but we are leaving behind a lot- our true identity. Objectives- the objectives of The Last Avatar are; conducting an in-depth analysis of the traditional practices. Help retain traditional forms of art and culture. Documentation and preservation of the cultural and traditional aspects. Bridging the gap between the communities and the masses. Encouraging local trade and self-sustainable models. Plan of Action- promotion and propagation of local art and traditional practices, publications and documentaries, connect masses to the communities. Additional projects of social benefit are carried forward in accordance to the community’s needs. The Last Avatar (book) – it consists of visual documentation/portraits of the people belonging to tribal communities and other unique ethnic groups. It explores the traditional heritage of respective communities. It tries to break the stereotypical view point of the masses towards these communities. It provides the reference point for the researchers or anybody interested in gaining knowledge in context to their culture and traditions. The book covers the following tribes; Aghori, Ahir, Apatani, Banjara, Bhil, Bhopa, Bison-Horn Maria, Brokpa, Gaddi, Garasia, Halakki, Siddi, Kandha, Konyak, Raika and RamnamiSamaj. Art Workshops- traditional art workshops were held which were by the people for the people, so that they value what they have, as by saving ourselves we are saving our culture.
About the Speaker
Roohani Sawhney
Author
The Last Avatar
Roohani Sawhney is a writer, artist and researcher. She wishes to dedicate her writings to create an awareness of the beings and help revolutionize a social change for the greater good. About her writings, she doesn’t merely want them be a recreation but rather a catalyst to evoke thoughts of social and personal reformation.
