Jyotiranjan Gudia: A Scholar Dedicated to Indigenous Research

 

Jyotiranjan Gudia is a distinguished Ph.D. scholar at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) De

emed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. His academic journey is deeply rooted in the study of indigenous communities, with a particular focus on the Didayi tribe of Malkangiri district. His research explores the continuity and changes in the traditional political system of the Didayi people, analyzing how modern influences impact their governance structures. Through extensive fieldwork in 12 study villages, he is committed to documenting the socio-political dynamics of this unique tribe. His scholarly work is not only a contribution to academia but also a crucial effort in preserving the rich heritage of the Didayi community. Apart from political systems, Jyotiranjan Gudia has made significant contributions to the study of tribal art and culture. His research paper, "Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Art and Culture: The Traditional Arts and Crafts of the Didayi Tribe in Malkangiri District, Odisha," delves into the craftsmanship, artistic traditions and cultural expressions of the Didayi people. This work sheds light on how traditional art forms have evolved over time and how they serve as an identity marker for the community. By highlighting the artistic excellence of the Didayis, he aims to bring greater recognition to their cultural practices, advocating for their preservation in the face of modernization and external influences.

Jyotiranjan’s research involves a series of critical questions that examine the traditional political system of the Didayis. He seeks to understand whether the youth still respect their traditional leaders, how frequently decisions are made through consensus and how external agencies like NGOs and the government influence governance in Didayi villages. His inquiries also focus on the inclusivity of the traditional political system and the impact of political changes on the community. Through these research questions, he provides a comprehensive analysis of the current status of traditional leadership roles such as the Naik, Chalan, Pujari and Dishari, determining how their influence has shifted over time.

In addition to his academic work, Jyotiranjan has actively engaged with political institutions. He had the opportunity to visit the Odisha Legislative Assembly, where he observed the functioning of democracy firsthand and interacted with Honourable MLA Mr. Mangu Khila. This experience provided him with deeper insights into mainstream political processes, helping him draw meaningful comparisons between traditional tribal governance and modern democratic frameworks. His ability to bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary political systems makes his research valuable for policymakers, scholars and tribal communities alike. Beyond his academic pursuits, Jyotiranjan Gudia’s passion for indigenous studies is deeply personal. His love and dedication to his research reflect a commitment to advocating for the voices of marginalized tribal communities. By bringing attention to the challenges faced by the Didayi people, he contributes to the discourse on tribal rights, cultural preservation, and sustainable development. As he continues his research, his work stands as a testament to the importance of understanding and safeguarding indigenous knowledge systems, ensuring that the traditional wisdom of the Didayi tribe is not lost in the rapidly changing world.