As the world observes the International Day of Native Nations in the world, individuals from Banjar Telangan’s community shared their way, the challenges they continue to face, and their efforts to maintain cultural heritage, which is at risk of fading.
Banjaras, also known as Lambadis, is one of the oldest Indian nomadic tribal groups, spreading across almost 15 states. They are known for their distinctive clothing, jewelry, traditions and tongue.
Decade a long journey of the scholar
For Surya Dhananjay, the Vice -Rector of the Veeranari Chakali ILAMMA University, the road from the modest background to the academic leadership was long and demanding. “My journey was full of fighting for at least three decades before I could get to my current position,” she said. Her career covers university education, research, teaching and public service focusing on documenting tribal history, preserving indigenous cultures and defending constitutional rights.
“We have to document oral history, protect traditional dresses, crafts and music, promote festivals and represent the language of Banjara in schools, universities and universities. We also need community museums, cultural centers and digital archives, youth play a central role.
She called for an independent State Commission of St. level, recognition of Banjar Boli as an endangered language and its inclusion in the eighth schedule of the Constitution.
Writer and poet Ramesh Karthik Nayak | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Calling the writer to the clarity and courage
The writer and poet Ramesh Karthik Nayak, who is the youngest and first author of Telugu to be honored by the prestigious Sahitya Academy Yuva Puriskar 2024, believe that the art and scholarship are important, a real change must begin in the villages.
Mr. Ramesh questions the perception that Banjara is evenly well seated compared to other tribal groups. “Yes, some of them did well, but that doesn’t mean everyone has.
He adds that discrimination is a shared experience with other marginalized groups. Mr. Ramesh hopes to see more indigenous literature across Indian languages, especially from 33 to 35 tribal communities in Andhra Pradesh and Telangan. “We need more tribal people who tell their own stories and society has to give them the time, space and respect they deserve. I hope that the level of literacy increases not only for Banjar, but for all tribal communities.”
Srinivas Nayak | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement
Art as a protection
For artists Srinivas Nayak, the heritage is maintained alive on the canvas. Encouraged by his teacher, who was drawing school, chased the bachelor of fine art before he devoted himself to full -time painting. His works show running skirts, embroidered blouses, mirror work and heavy jewelry that once defined lambada clothes.
“The clothes of our elders carried sense in every stitch. Now they wear very little and these customs disappear. Through my paintings I try to keep what disappears,” he said.
While education and urban migration brought the opportunity, Mr. Srinivas will slowly order the disappearance of cultural identity. “Children often don’t know our songs or embroidery today. Some can’t even talk about our dialect.”
Meanwhile, social media has become an ally for Mr. Srinivas. “When I publish Lambada portraits in traditional dresses, people react with pride and nostalgia. Some even apply for portraits in this style. It’s a small way to keep our heritage alive,” he said.
Published – 9. August 2025 20:11
