This song celebrates the Jenu Kuruba community's deep connection to the forest. It describes their life within the forest, from birth to building homes with natural materials. The lyrics highlight their traditional practice of honey collection, showcasing their extensive knowledge of the forest ecosystem.
The song features the sounds of traditional Kodagu instruments like the Kai gajje (hand percussion with metal beads ), Jodumara (a large drum), and Buruda (a unique hand percussion). These instruments create a dynamic soundscape that complements the lively melody.
This song is a glimpse into the vibrant musical culture of Jenu Kurubas of Karnataka.
Archival Notes:
Region: Mananthawady, Wayanad
Instruments: Kai gajje (cymbals), Jodumara (drum), Buruda (wind instrument)
The song is performed by Ramesh and fellow musicians from the Girijana Samagra Abhivridhi Kalasamsthe, a cultural organization dedicated to preserving the heritage of the Jenu Kuruba community. Filmed in Mananthawady, Wayanad, the performance showcases the rich musical traditions of this community.
The Jenu Kuruba Community:
The Jenu Kuruba people are traditional forest dwellers with a rich cultural heritage. Their name translates to "honey" in Kannada and their language, reflecting their historical occupation of honey collection in the Western Ghats forests. Classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) in Kerala, the Jenu Kuruba community faces marginalization.
Performance Details:
Performers: Ramesh JB, Nithin J R, Naveen, RAMAKRISHNA J S, KUMARA J G, RAMESH J B, Ajay J K, Udaya J R, Naveen J R, Vijay J K, Arjun J S, Rajanna JM
Organization: Girijana Samagra Abhivridhi Kalasamsthe
About ARPO:
The Archival and Research Project (ARPO) was established in 2021. ARPO's mission is to discover and share lesser-known aspects of Kerala's cultural heritage through accessible and creative means.
Support ARPO:
To learn more about ARPO's work and support our mission, please visit : www.arpo.in/donate
Follow ARPO on Social Media:
Instagram: / arpo.in
Twitter: / arpo_in
Facebook: / arpo.kl