ARPO completes Documentation Project with Three Tribal Communities for Central Govt
ARPO documented the music and culture of three tribal communities in the Western Ghats for the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, in a prestigious collaboration.
The Archival and Research Project (ARPO) is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of a significant documentation initiative undertaken for the Kendra Sangeet Natak Akademi, as part of the nationwide Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations. This pivotal project focused on meticulously documenting the distinct musical traditions of three tribal communities located in the southern reaches of the Western Ghats: the Irular (Attappady) of Kerala, the Jenu Kuruba community of Coorg, Karnataka, and the Kotha tribe of Ooty, Tamil Nadu.
Spanning from August 2023 to February 2024, the initiative involved extensive fieldwork. A dedicated team of 10-15 ARPO members conducted in-depth explorations at each location. Crucially, community members themselves served as local coordinators, actively participating in the documentation process. This collaborative approach not only ensured authentic capture but also provided a vital opportunity for these communities to digitally preserve their invaluable songs and traditions for future generations.
ARPO's meticulous efforts yielded substantial results. Detailed video recordings were created, showcasing the unique musical instruments intrinsic to each tribe's heritage. Complementing these, three captivating documentaries were produced, offering comprehensive insights into each community's traditions, their songs, and their unique way of life.
Sruthin Lal, Executive Director of ARPO, who spearheaded this initiative, expressed profound gratitude: "It was an immense honor to collaborate with the Kendra Sangeet Natak Akademi, the apex institution for performing arts in our country, on such a momentous project. Documenting the rich cultural heritage of these tribal communities has been a truly enriching and deeply meaningful experience for our entire team."
This collaborative endeavor between ARPO and the Kendra Sangeet Natak Akademi not only safeguards the cultural legacy of these tribal communities but also significantly contributes to a broader understanding and appreciation of India's vibrant cultural diversity. A screening of these important documentaries is anticipated to be held later in Delhi, further sharing these unique voices with a wider audience.
