Jyotiranjan Gudia
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| Jyotiranjan Gudia stand at rant house Patharagadia in Bhubaneswar, Odisha |
Jyotiranjan Gudia is a prominent
tribal scholar and artist, originally hailing from Muduliguda village in the
Malkangiri district of Odisha, born on May 1, 1997. He holds the distinction of
being the first individual from the Didayi community to pursue both an M. Phil.
and a Ph.D., marking a significant milestone for his tribe. The Didayi are
officially recognized as one of India's Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups
(PVTGs), making his academic achievements a powerful symbol of educational
advancement. He is currently engaged as a dedicated doctoral researcher at the
Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) Deemed to be University in
Bhubaneswar, deeply committed to his studies. His research reflects a profound
commitment to bridging his indigenous identity with the world of higher
academia and creative expression. His journey serves as an inspirational
example of the transformative power of education for marginalized communities.
| in 2025. He is the first Ph.D. scholar of Didayi community. |
His primary scholarly focus revolves
around the socio-political and cultural life of the Didayi tribe, examining the
intricate dynamics of their governance systems. His doctoral research is
specifically titled "Continuity and Changes of Traditional Political
System of Didayi Tribe in Odisha: A Case Study of Malkangiri District."
This research explores how the traditional political structures of the Didayi
are adapting to contemporary influences and challenges within 12 villages in
Malkangiri. Through extensive and culturally sensitive fieldwork, he builds
strong bonds with community members, earning the trust of local leaders, youth,
and elders. His work contributes valuable anthropological insights by
documenting and analyzing the delicate balance between preserving ancestral
wisdom and adapting to modern society. He aims for his research to inform
policy, promote awareness, and inspire a new generation of researchers from
indigenous backgrounds.
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| in 2025. He is the first Ph.D. scholar of Didayi community. |
Jyotiranjan Gudia's most significant
contribution to the Didayi society lies in the thorough documentation and
preservation of their cultural and socio-political heritage through his
published academic work. He has authored or co-authored multiple scholarly
papers on diverse subjects such as tribal economic management, traditional arts
and crafts, socio-cultural life, marriage customs, gender roles, and indigenous
healing practices. His article, "Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Art and
Culture: The Traditional Arts and Crafts of the Didayi Tribe," highlights
the need for safeguarding these traditions against rapid socio-economic
transformations. His research not only brings to light the rich and often
overlooked knowledge systems of the Didayi but also emphasizes their resilience
in preserving their unique identity amidst external pressures. By engaging in
in-depth research, he acts as a crucial advocate for his community's history
and future.
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| in 2025. He is the first Ph.D. scholar of Didayi community. |
The Didayi tribe, for whom
Jyotiranjan Gudia advocates, is a small and culturally distinct indigenous
community primarily residing in the remote Konda Kamberu hills of Malkangiri
district, Odisha. They are known for their distinct socio-cultural practices,
which are intricately tied to their natural surroundings and deeply rooted in
tradition. Their livelihood is historically centered on shifting cultivation,
forest resource gathering, and a barter-based economy, guided by traditional
leaders like the Naik and Chalan. They speak the Gta' language,
which belongs to the Austroasiatic language family, and their belief system is
rooted in animism with a deep reverence for nature. The community governance is
historically managed by a traditional council of elders called the lepar,
which plays a vital role in dispute resolution and maintaining social harmony.
Jyotiranjan's work is essential for documenting and celebrating this unique way
of life before modernization erodes it completely.
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| in 2025. He is the first Ph.D. scholar of Didayi community. |
The first uploaded photograph (DSC_4989.JPG)
shows Jyotiranjan Gudia in a professional and composed manner, leaning against
a stone pillar outside a building. He is dressed in formal attire, wearing a
dark suit jacket, a white dress shirt, a patterned dark tie, and dark trousers,
along with glasses. His arms are folded across his chest, and his expression is
focused and serious, conveying a sense of scholarly dignity and
professionalism. The setting, with its simple wall and window in the
background, is understated, placing the emphasis on his poised and formal
presence. This image effectively captures the persona of a dedicated academic
and professional.
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| in 2025. He is the first Ph.D. scholar of Didayi community. |
The second uploaded photograph
(DSC_4962.JPG) also features Jyotiranjan Gudia, standing full-length in a
different professional outfit within a green, natural outdoor setting. He is
wearing a light blue dress shirt, a dark patterned tie, dark trousers, a belt,
and dark formal shoes. In this picture, his posture is upright and relaxed,
with his hands down by his sides, showing a more approachable yet equally
professional demeanor. The background is lush with trees and foliage,
suggesting he is perhaps on or near a campus or a natural outdoor area. Both
photographs, taken together, convey his professional commitment, contrasting
formal attire with settings that hint at his connection to nature and an
academic environment.
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| in 2025. He is the first Ph.D. scholar of Didayi community. |
In summary, Jyotiranjan Gudia's
contributions extend far beyond mere academic inquiry; he is a voice of
representation and a catalyst for cultural preservation for the Didayi people.
His achievements in becoming the first M. Phil. and Ph.D. scholar from a PVTG
like the Didayi inspire hope and demonstrate the potential of education to
uplift the most vulnerable tribal communities. Through his meticulous research,
published works, and deep connection to his roots in Malkangiri, he actively
ensures that the traditional political systems, arts, and socio-cultural life
of the Didayi tribe are understood, respected, and recorded for future
generations. His journey seamlessly integrates his personal cultural heritage
with the global pursuit of knowledge and social advocacy.
| in 2025. He is the first Ph.D. scholar of Didayi community. |
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