Gadchiroli March 14 (District Correspondent) Language, culture, civilization and knowledge are the gifts of the tribals to the society, stated Ms. Ushakiran Atram, well known tribal litterateur while delivering presidential speech at the second Tribal Women’s Literary Conference held in Armori the other day.
The conference was inaugurated at the hands of Dr. Sardar Singh Meena, noted litterateur from Rajasthan. Dr. Waman Shelmake from Bhandara, Dr. Pratibha Chaure Deshmukh from Dhule, Dr. Chhaya Uike, Kirti Wartha from Palghar were the chief guests.
Important resolutions relating to the tribal culture were passed in the conference. They included that the Gotul system be strengthened, tribal languages be preserved, and Gondi language be included in the eighth appendix of the Constitution of India.
Referring to tribal culture, Ms. Atram spoke about the importance of the earth and mother- power. Mothers created language through the flashes of lightning, the thunder of clouds, the sounds of animals and birds, she pointed out. She also said that it is necessary to preserve tribal culture.
Dhavleri is a widowed woman whose husband is dead. The auspicious work of arranging marriage is done by her. In tribal society, women do not become widows. Life with dignity is our culture, explained Ms. Atram in her speech.
The conference was inaugurated by worshiping the images of mahua flowers paddy and revolutionary heroes.
The session of Gondi Traditional Songs and Poets Meet was presided over by Dr. Pravin Kilnake and conducted by Prof. Ramesh Korcha. This initiative was started for the first time through this literary festival to keep traditional songs alive and thriving.
Ms. Vandana Madavi, Sangita Rajgadkar has published a collection of poems for the first time hence they were felicitated for it on the occasion. Dr. Nilkanth Masram, Sunita Usendi, Sarita Naitam, Meenakshi Selokar, Kalpana Tijare were present.
Ms. Premila Ramteke, Vanita Maraskolhe, Meenatai Thakre Masram, Kalpana Sidam, Sapna Kokode, Prof. Anil Holi, Sonu Alam, Gaurav Alam supported the program.
The chief organizer of the conference Ms. Kusum alam made an introductory speech and gave details of the conference. Mr. Vilas Sidam moderated the program, and Prakash Pandhare presented the vote of thanks. Poets, social activists, and literature lovers from many districts were present.
Vandana Madavi’s welcome song and traditional Gondi song enlivened the program.
