Childhood Photo of Jyotiranjan Gudia 

Childhood Photo of Jyotiranjan Gudia at Kudumulugumma in 2004.

This photograph is a precious childhood memory of Jyotiranjan Gudia, captured in the year 2004 when he was studying in Class 3 at Kudumulugumma, a block in the Malkangiri district of Odisha. The image, aged and rust-stained, speaks to the passage of time and the simplicity of rural life during that period. Dressed in a checkered shirt with a serious expression on his face, young Jyotiranjan reflects a phase of innocence, curiosity, and early learning. This photo holds deep sentimental value, not only because it marks a moment from his childhood, but also because it represents the humble beginnings of a boy who would later grow into a passionate researcher, scholar, and cultural documentarian of the Didayi tribe. Jyotiranjan Gudia, now the first Ph.D. scholar from the Didayi community, has dedicated his academic journey to preserving and documenting the traditional political systems, culture, and heritage of his tribe. From a small classroom in Kudumulugumma to presenting academic research at the national level, this childhood photograph is more than just a picture it is a powerful symbol of growth, resilience, and dedication to community and knowledge.