First Batch of Tribal Students Trained in Traditional Art Forms in Kerala

In a significant step towards preserving and promoting tribal heritage, the Adikala Kendram under the Kerala Institute for Research, Training and Development Studies of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (KIRTADS) has completed the training of its first batch of 26 tribal students in Paniya dance and music. The initiative is part of a two-month professional certificate programme funded by the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs. Certificates will be distributed at a ceremony on the KIRTADS campus on August 10.

A First-of-Its-Kind Initiative in Kerala

This programme, supported by ₹50 lakh from the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, is the first in Kerala to systematically train members of tribal communities as professional trainers and judges in their indigenous art forms. The inaugural batch included students aged 18 to 45 from the Paniya community in the districts of Wayanad, Idukki, and Kasaragod. The training was conducted by 10 experienced Paniya artistes.

Future batches will expand to include participants from the Paliya, Irula, Hill Pulaya, and Mavila communities. Artistes from these groups will serve as trainers, ensuring the preservation and authentic transmission of their respective traditional dance and music forms.

Addressing the Gaps in Cultural Representation

The programme aims to address a critical gap in how tribal art forms are currently taught and evaluated. According to training coordinator Prajod Irulam, many performances at cultural events and school festivals are conducted by individuals with only superficial knowledge of these traditions, often learned through platforms like YouTube. By creating a pool of trained practitioners from within the tribal communities, the initiative seeks to ensure more authentic performances and informed evaluations.

Empowering Tribal Artistes

Participants have expressed confidence in their ability to perform, teach, and evaluate their art forms. “We have learnt how to systematically assess performances and techniques, encourage team spirit among tribal artistes, and help them excel in the field,” said Karthika Das, one of the trainees.

The course also included a 10-day induction programme led by experts from Kerala Kalamandalam Deemed-to-be University. These sessions focused on deepening the trainees’ understanding of their art forms and preparing them to serve as knowledgeable judges while fostering awareness of traditional performance practices.

A Step Towards Cultural Preservation

This pioneering effort marks a significant milestone in the recognition and preservation of tribal art forms in Kerala. By empowering tribal communities to take ownership of their cultural heritage, the programme not only ensures its sustainability but also enhances its authenticity and representation at various cultural platforms.

Source: The Hindu