Odisha Governor Releases Book On Life & Culture Of Dongria Kondh Tribe

Odisha Governor Releases Book On Life & Culture Of Dongria Kondh Tribe

Odisha Governor Professor Ganeshi Lal, released a book titled ‘Dangaran Kuan’ on the life, culture and struggle of the Dongria Kondh tribe living at Niyamgiri hills on 8th April. The book is written by researcher and journalist Jitendra Patnaik. The Governor lauded Jitendra’s book and praised it for its in depth research and the writer’s efforts to visit Niyamgiri hill to meet the Kondhs. 

He called it ‘a rare research-based book’ and it will motivate others to explore tribal culture. He also encouraged him to continue his research on other tribal communities as well. The meaning of ‘Dangaran Kuan’ is ‘Man of the forest’. The 242-page book has six main chapters and 16 sub-chapters. 

The book features the myths surrounding the Dongria Kondh community and sheds light on their work culture, struggle and approach to solve problems. The preface of the book is written by noted writer, researcher and translator Asit Kumar Mohanty and the first word has been written by former Chief Secretary Bijay Patnaik.

Remarkably, Jitendra had earlier written a book on the Gond tribe titled ‘Dangar Uhade Jahna’. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik had released the book, which is available in almost every library in Odisha.

Speaking to My City Links, Jitendra informed, “I have seen the turmoil of the tribal community and this encouraged me to take the initiative to study their life and living and do my bit for their upliftment. Apparently, in the past 20 years, crores have already been spent in improving the condition of the Dongria Kondh in Niyamgiri in Odisha, but that is just on pen and paper. Tribal communities are full of ignorance and they don’t understand the abuse they face by being neglected. My aim is to bring their plight to the notice of the authorities, so as to work towards their development as well. ”