Adivasi Literature Reflects Human Values’

Pune, December 9, 2018: Adivasi culture, from the beginning, is based on the values of liberty, equality and fraternity. It was after the invention of private property that the system of exploitation came into existence. But the oral and written literature of the Adivasis still reflects these human values, said Vahru Sonawane, eminent Adivasi poet.

He was speaking at the release of the Marathi book Janglachya Sannidhyat Umalalele Dnyaan – Adivasi Bodhkatha – Ek Punarkathan. Sonawane presided over the ceremony. Senior theatre personality Atul Pethe was present as the chief-guest. The book is a retelling of moral stories from the English original ‘Wisdom from The Wilderness’ by Pradeep Prabhu and Shiraz Balsara. The Marathi version has been written by Suhas Paranjape and Swatija Manorama and has been published by Manovikas Prakashan. Prabhu, Paranjape and Arvind Patkar and Ashish Patkar of Manovikas Prakashan were also present on the occasion.

Expressing his opinion about the discourse around Adivasi culture, Sonawane said, “I am happy that Adivasi life is being discussed in-depth and from various angles.” He also added that while doing this, people should try and get closer to the Adivasi reality.

Oral knowledge and short stories of Adivasis have mainly been compiled into this book. Additionally, Warli and other kinds of Adivasi paintings have been included.

Speaking about the book, Pethe said, “Genuine and good literature gives reader the space to interpret the story himself. All the stories in this book give the scope of reinterpretation.” He added that the stories reflect the attitude, lifestyle and behavioral patterns of the Adivasis. “Life in the jungle is multi-layered. Dictatorship does not work here,” he observed.

Prabhu and Paranjape spoke about the diverse aspects of the book. “Adivasis have constituted Affirmative Democracy. It is a form where inter-dependence is acknowledged.” Prabhu said. Paranjape said that only translation could not bring out the power of these stories, so retelling was the method chosen. “This book will open up a new avenue for Marathi literature,” he said.

Patkar emphasized on Manovikas Prakashan’s policy to promote progressive literature. He also urged activists to write. “Many activists work in progressive movements all their life. But they do not document their struggles. This makes it difficult for the next generations to know about it,” he said.