Jyotiranjan Gudia with His Parents in Muduliguda

This photograph captures a deeply personal and meaningful moment in the life of Jyotiranjan Gudia, who stands proudly with his father, Buda Gudia and mother, Radha Gudia, in front of his house at Muduliguda village in Malkangiri district, Odisha. The setting is rooted in simplicity, reflecting the rural charm of the region. The background, though blurred, still hints at the village’s traditional environment, with mud houses and natural surroundings that signify the grounded life of tribal communities. This picture is not just a family photograph, but also a symbol of identity, roots and the strong bond between parents and their son.

Jyotiranjan Gudia with his father Buda Gudia and mother Radha Gudia at Muduliguda in 2024.

Jyotiranjan Gudia, a dedicated Ph.D. scholar at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, has devoted his academic journey to researching the traditional political system of the Didayi tribe of Malkangiri. His research topic, “Continuity and Changes of Traditional Political System of the Didayi Tribe in Odisha: A Case Study of Malkangiri District,” is a reflection of his deep connection with his land, culture and community. Despite pursuing higher education in a premier institution, Jyotiranjan remains connected to his village roots and this picture symbolizes that balance between modern education and traditional upbringing.

Standing at the center of the frame, Jyotiranjan represents the bridge between generations. His attire, a casual white t-shirt with a green-black checked shirt and jeans, along with a backpack, reflects the aspirations of an educated young scholar. On either side of him are his parents, dressed in traditional attire. His father, in light blue checkered shirt and dark trousers, looks dignified and calm, while his mother, in a printed saree with a blouse and a headscarf, embodies the grace and strength of a tribal woman. Together, they present a powerful image of family unity, resilience and generational continuity. The photograph is deeply symbolic of the sacrifices and support parents provide in shaping their children’s future. For Jyotiranjan, his academic achievements are not only personal milestones but also the fulfillment of his parents’ dreams. His father, Buda Gudia and mother, Radha Gudia, embody the struggles of rural life, where hard work, simplicity and perseverance define everyday existence. Their unwavering encouragement and blessings have guided Jyotiranjan’s academic journey, helping him reach heights that were once unimaginable in the context of a remote tribal village. Beyond the visual representation, this picture also highlights the theme of identity and belonging. While Jyotiranjan has stepped into the academic world of research, presentations and intellectual debates, his roots in Muduliguda remain strong. The photograph taken in front of his house reaffirms his attachment to his birthplace, reminding him that no matter how far one travels in life, home remains the foundation of everything. It also stands as a testament to the pride his parents feel in their son’s accomplishments.

Jyotiranjan Gudia at Muduliguda in 2024.

This family portrait resonates with cultural values of respect, kinship and togetherness. In many tribal and rural communities, the bond between parents and children is not only emotional but also symbolic of continuity. By capturing this moment, the photograph immortalizes the love and respect Jyotiranjan holds for his parents. It portrays how education, culture and family support can come together to shape an individual who values both tradition and modernity. Ultimately, this is not just a picture of three individuals but a story of a family that represents resilience, love and progress. It is a story of a scholar who never forgot his roots, of parents who dedicated their lives to nurturing their son and of a village that quietly stands as the backdrop to his academic and personal journey. The photograph is a reminder that education, when combined with family strength and cultural grounding, creates not only scholars but also responsible individuals who honor their heritage while embracing the future.

Jyotiranjan Gudia with his mother Radha Gudia and father Buda Gudia at Muduliguda in 2024.

 Jyotiranjan Gudia: A Scholar Rooted in Nature and Tribal Heritage

In this picture, Jyotiranjan Gudia is standing outdoors with a gentle smile on his face, carrying a bunch of beautiful yellow flowers on his shoulder. The green background filled with trees and leaves gives the image a natural and refreshing feel. His casual outfit, along with his relaxed pose, reflects simplicity and confidence. The vibrant flowers add a touch of brightness and harmony to the scene, symbolizing positivity and joy. The overall mood of the picture is calm, natural and inspiring, showing a connection with nature.

Jyotiranjan Gudia in Bhubaneswar, Odisha in 2025.

Jyotiranjan Gudia is a Ph.D. scholar at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. His research focuses on the traditional political system of the Didayi tribe in Malkangiri district, Odisha, where he explores both continuity and change in indigenous governance practices. His academic work reflects his commitment to documenting, analyzing and preserving tribal heritage while also studying the effects of modern influences on traditional structures. This makes his research valuable not only in the field of anthropology but also in the broader discourse on indigenous rights and cultural preservation. Beyond his research, Jyotiranjan is deeply connected to the tribal communities of southern Odisha. He has devoted years to understanding their socio-cultural life, traditions and challenges. His scholarly journey is not just about academic inquiry but also about amplifying the voices of marginalized groups who often remain underrepresented in mainstream narratives. His passion for fieldwork and his empathetic approach to community-based research show his dedication to both scholarship and social impact. Jyotiranjan Gudia also represents the spirit of resilience and aspiration. Coming from a tribal background himself, he has carved a path in higher education and research that inspires many young scholars from similar communities. His achievements highlight the transformative power of education and the importance of staying rooted in one’s cultural identity while engaging with global knowledge systems. His journey stands as a role model for those who seek to balance tradition with modern academic pursuits.

At a personal level, Jyotiranjan is also known for his love of art and expression. From sketching portraits to writing about tribal culture, he brings creativity into his academic and personal life. His life reflects a blend of scholarship, culture and humanity, making him more than just a researcher he is a voice of representation for his community and a bridge between indigenous traditions and modern academia. This photograph beautifully captures his personality: simple, thoughtful and grounded in nature, yet carrying a sense of purpose and inspiration.

Jyotiranjan Gudia

Jyotiranjan Gudia at Patharagadia, 2025. 

 

        Jyotiranjan Gudia is a dedicated Ph.D. scholar at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. His research focuses on “Continuity and Changes of the Traditional Political System of the Didayi Tribe in Odisha: A Case Study of Malkangiri District”. Deeply connected to his roots, Jyotiranjan is committed to documenting and preserving the socio-cultural and political heritage of tribal communities, especially the Didayi tribe. His academic journey reflects his passion for social anthropology, tribal studies and community development. Alongside his scholarly pursuits, he has actively participated in cultural and academic events, making valuable contributions to the understanding of indigenous governance systems.

In this photograph, Jyotiranjan Gudia is seen standing confidently outdoors, dressed in a formal and elegant outfit. He is wearing a navy-blue Nehru jacket over a light blue shirt, paired with matching trousers and brown formal shoes, complemented by a wristwatch. The setting appears to be a rural or semi-rural background, slightly blurred, which draws focus to his composed presence. His attire and demeanor reflect both professionalism and cultural pride, capturing him in a poised and dignified manner.

 

 Jyotiranjan Gudia Studying News Paper at KISS University Library

Jyotiranjan Gudia is studying Santala Language News paper at library in KISS University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha in 2025.

Jyotiranjan Gudia, born on May 1, 1997, comes from Muduliguda village in Malkangiri district, Odisha. He belongs to the Didayi tribe, one of the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) of the state. Coming from a remote tribal background, his academic achievements have broken significant barriers for his community. He is the first person from the Didayi tribe to pursue both an M.Phil. and a Ph.D., making him a source of inspiration for the younger generation. He is currently a Ph.D. scholar at the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar. His doctoral research, titled “Continuity and Changes of Traditional Political System of the Didayi Tribe in Odisha: A Case Study of Malkangiri District,” examines how modern influences have transformed traditional governance roles such as the Naik, Chalan, Pujari and Dishari. His fieldwork covers twelve villages, documenting both the continuity and the challenges faced by the Didayi’s indigenous political structures. He has also authored scholarly work on the traditional arts and crafts of the Didayi, contributing to the preservation of their cultural heritage. Apart from his research, Jyotiranjan is a talented visual artist. He began drawing during his school years, developing his skills despite limited resources. Over time, he became known for his quick sketching abilities, once completing a portrait of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in just two minutes during a live event. One of his notable works was a portrait of Hollywood actress and UNFPA Goodwill Ambassador Ashley Judd, which he personally presented to her during her visit to KISS University in 2017. Through his academic and artistic contributions, Jyotiranjan Gudia plays a vital role in bridging traditional tribal knowledge with modern education and cultural awareness. His journey reflects determination, resilience and a deep commitment to preserving the identity of his community while inspiring others to pursue education and creative expression.

        In this photograph, Jyotiranjan Gudia is seated at a library table in Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, in 2025. He is deeply engaged in reading a newspaper published in the Santali language, reflecting his interest in tribal languages and indigenous knowledge. Wearing a green checkered shirt and his university ID card, he appears focused and thoughtful, suggesting a moment of quiet study and cultural connection. The background, with books, framed pictures, and soft lighting from the curtains, adds to the academic and serene atmosphere of the scene. This image captures both his dedication as a scholar and his commitment to preserving and engaging with tribal heritage.

 Jyotiranjan Gudia and his journey..

Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) University, located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is a unique and world-renowned institution dedicated to providing free education, accommodation, food, and healthcare to tribal children from kindergarten to postgraduate level. Established with the noble mission of eradicating poverty through education, KISS has transformed the lives of thousands of indigenous students who once faced social and economic marginalization. Recognized as the world’s largest tribal residential educational institution, it has not only become an academic powerhouse but also a symbol of hope, empowerment, and cultural preservation for tribal communities. The serene and vibrant campus fosters a holistic environment where education, sports, and cultural activities go hand in hand, allowing students to dream big and achieve greater heights in life. The visionary behind KISS is Dr. Achyuta Samanta, a social entrepreneur and humanitarian whose life has been dedicated to the upliftment of the underprivileged. Born into poverty and hardship, Dr. Samanta turned his personal struggles into a lifelong mission to serve society. In 1992, he started KISS with just 125 tribal students and an unwavering determination to bring about change. Today, his vision has expanded into a movement benefiting over 30,000 students directly in KISS and countless more indirectly through outreach programs. Under his leadership, KISS has earned global recognition for its innovative educational model, blending academic excellence with skill development, cultural preservation and social responsibility. Dr. Samanta’s journey from humble beginnings to a globally respected leader continues to inspire countless people.

Jyotiranjan Gudia at KISS DU, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

Within this nurturing academic ecosystem, Jyotiranjan Gudia stands out as a dedicated Ph.D. scholar whose research is deeply rooted in the culture and governance of Odisha’s tribal communities. A scholar at KISS Deemed to be University, Jyotiranjan has committed himself to an in-depth study of the Continuity and Changes of the Traditional Political System of the Didayi Tribe in Odisha: A Case Study of Malkangiri District. His work not only contributes valuable insights to the academic world but also helps in preserving the socio-political heritage of one of Odisha’s most unique indigenous groups. Known for his sincerity, disciplined work ethic and passion for knowledge, he represents the ideal of what KISS aims to cultivate leaders who are grounded in their roots but equipped to face the modern world. Beyond his academic excellence, Jyotiranjan’s journey is also a story of inspiration and determination. His research involves extensive fieldwork in remote tribal villages, interacting with community elders and documenting their governance practices, challenges and adaptations in the face of modernization. This requires not just scholarly dedication but also cultural sensitivity and resilience qualities that Jyotiranjan embodies fully. His work resonates with KISS’s philosophy of education that does not alienate students from their heritage but instead empowers them to become advocates for their communities. By bridging the gap between traditional wisdom and contemporary governance, his contributions are paving the way for sustainable development models that honor indigenous identity.

In the tranquil evening setting of Campus-4, as seen in the photograph, Jyotiranjan reflects the calm yet determined spirit of a scholar who knows his mission. The lush greenery, peaceful pathways and vibrant energy of KISS University provide the perfect backdrop for his academic pursuits. Surrounded by the positive vibes of spring and the encouraging environment nurtured by Dr. Achyuta Samanta’s vision, Jyotiranjan continues his scholarly journey with a deep sense of purpose. His presence at KISS is more than just that of a student it is a testament to how education, when combined with dedication and vision, can shape individuals who go on to transform society for the better.

 

Jyotiranjan Gudia as Jamidar in "Bhagaban Birsa Munda"

 Reviving Tribal Legacy Through Theatre: Jyotiranjan Gudia as Jamidar in "Bhagaban Birsa Munda"

A Glimpse into Cultural Performance at the World Anthropology Congress 2023

The photograph captures a vibrant moment during the World Anthropology Congress 2023 held at KIIT University, Bhubaneswar. In this powerful scene, Jyotiranjan Gudia is seated in the center, portraying the role of a Jamidar (landlord) while his three fellow Ph.D. scholars, dressed as British-era policemen, stand behind him in full costume. The visual encapsulates a scene from the play "Bhagaban Birsa Munda," a theatrical tribute to one of India’s most iconic tribal freedom fighters. This drama was performed by research scholars of the university to commemorate the life and legacy of Birsa Munda, shedding light on tribal resistance against British colonial rule. The participants' expressions, attire, and setting reflect their deep commitment to honoring indigenous history through art and performance.

Bhagaban Birsa Munda – The Tribal Freedom Fighter and God of the People

Birsa Munda, often referred to as “Bhagaban” (God) by his followers, holds a sacred place in the history of India's freedom struggle, especially among the tribal communities of central and eastern India. Born in 1875 in the Chotanagpur plateau region, Birsa Munda led the Ulgulan (rebellion) against British colonial rule and exploitative landlords who oppressed the tribal people and their traditional way of life. His fight was not just political but spiritual and cultural, as he revived tribal identity, mobilized the Munda community, and fought for land rights, self-rule, and the protection of indigenous traditions. Although his life was short he died at the age of 25 his legacy continues to inspire generations. His elevation to the status of “Bhagaban” reflects the deep respect and devotion people hold for him as both a revolutionary and a spiritual leader.

Jyotiranjan Gudia – Scholar, Artist, and Voice of Tribal Heritage

Jyotiranjan Gudia, a Ph.D. Scholar at KISS (Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences), continues to emerge as a committed researcher and cultural ambassador of tribal heritage, particularly of the Didayi tribe in Odisha. His role as the Jamidar in the drama "Bhagaban Birsa Munda" symbolically reflected the historical oppression against which Birsa Munda and other tribal heroes stood. Through this performance, Jyotiranjan not only displayed his artistic talent but also emphasized the importance of academic and cultural expression in preserving tribal history. His involvement in such initiatives shows his multi-dimensional personality as a scholar, performer, and a strong advocate for indigenous identity. Whether through his research work or participation in cultural dramas, he strives to bring tribal voices to the mainstream academic and social discourse. This photograph, therefore, is not just a memory of a performance but a statement of identity, resistance, and pride in one’s roots.

Jyotiranjan Gudia with small dancer of KISS at KIIT in 2023.

Jyotiranjan Gudia Meets Odia Film Icon Anu Chaudhary

Anu Chaudhary is a renowned actress in the Odia film industry, admired for her graceful screen presence and powerful acting. With a career spanning over two decades, she has acted in numerous hit Odia films such as Maa Gojabayani, Biswaprakash, Dhauli Express, and many more. Her versatility and natural performance style have made her a household name in Odisha. Beyond her cinematic achievements, Anu Chaudhary is also known for her contribution to social causes and her elegance both on and off screen. Her ability to portray deep emotions and connect with the audience has earned her several awards and the love of countless fans. Her visit to the university today was an inspiring moment for students and film lovers alike.

Odia Film Heroin Anu Choudhary and Jyotiranjan Gudia at KISS University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha in 2025.

Jyotiranjan Gudia, a Ph.D. Scholar at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), is not only known for his academic dedication but also for his deep admiration for art, culture, and cinema. Meeting his childhood idol, Anu Chaudhary, was a moment of great joy and pride for him. As someone who grew up watching her films and drawing inspiration from her performances, Jyotiranjan was thrilled to capture a photo with her during her university visit. His journey from being a young admirer of Odia cinema to becoming a scholar contributing to tribal research and culture is a reflection of his passion and commitment. This special encounter will surely remain a cherished memory in his life.

Jyotiranjan Gudia visited Biju Patnaik Park in Bhubaneswar

Jyotiranjan Gudia visited Biju Patnaik Park in Bhubaneswar

        

Biju Patnaik Park, located in the heart of Bhubaneswar, is a beautifully designed green space dedicated to the memory of the visionary former Chief Minister, Late Biju Patnaik. Today, Jyotiranjan Gudia a passionate researcher, artist, and Ph.D. scholar at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) University visited the park for the first time and was captivated by its calm, clean, and systematically planted trees that offer a perfect blend of nature and serenity. As shown in this photograph, Jyotiranjan is seen seated peacefully on the lush grass, enjoying the fresh air and scenic surroundings that make the park a true urban retreat. The well-maintained pathways, manicured lawns, and shady groves provided him with a sense of happiness and relaxation upon entering the park. To capture the moment, his friend Rama recorded a video of him using a mobile phone, making the visit to Biju Patnaik Park a memorable and cherished experience for Jyotiranjan Gudia.

Jyotiranjan Gudia sitting in site of 'Biju Pattnaik Park', near Ekamra Khetra, in front of Sankha Bhaban, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

        Jyotiranjan Gudia is a dedicated researcher, artist and Ph.D. scholar at Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. His doctoral research focuses on the traditional political system of the Didayi tribe in Malkangiri district, Odisha, exploring its continuity and changes amidst modern influences. Jyotiranjan has a long academic journey at KISS, completing his +2, graduation, post-graduation, M.Phil., and now Ph.D. at the same institution. In addition to his academic work, he is also known for his artistic talents and his commitment to tribal studies and community engagement. He has actively contributed to academic discussions, seminars, and has been involved in preserving the rich cultural heritage of indigenous communities in Odisha.

Jyotiranjan Gudia at Biju Pattnaik Park, Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

Jyotiranjan Gudia at Biju Pattnaik Park

 A Memorable Gathering at KISS University Auditorium – Campus 4

The photographs depict a significant academic gathering held at KISS (Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences) Deemed to be University, Auditorium, Campus 4, Bhubaneswar. The event was attended by more than 300 Ph.D. scholars from various disciplines who came together for an insightful and informative session. The purpose of this gathering was to introduce and elaborate on the concept of 'SodhChakra' – a digital platform designed to track and monitor the academic journey of Ph.D. scholars. The session was graced by the Honourable Vice-Chancellor, Professor Debashis Bandyopadhyay, whose words inspired scholars to take ownership of their research journey and maintain consistent academic progress.

SodhChakra: A Digital Repository for Ph.D. Progress

Vice-Chancellor Professor Debashis Bandyopadhyay shared the vision behind the 'SodhChakra' platform, a scholarly initiative intended to act as a digital repository for each scholar’s Ph.D. journey. From registration, coursework, synopsis submission, RDC, to final thesis submission every milestone is to be documented and accessible through this platform. He emphasized how this online tool would help both the research scholars and their guides to stay updated on the progress and upcoming requirements. It is a move towards transparency, accountability, and efficient academic governance, reflecting the university's commitment to research excellence.

Insightful Contributions by the Director of Research

Dr. Arpana Premi Lina Oram, the Director of Research at KISS University, also addressed the scholars and shared her perspective on how SodhChakra can enhance the overall Ph.D. experience. She highlighted that the platform not only ensures regular tracking of academic progress but also supports timely feedback and improved coordination between the guide and scholar. Dr. Oram's presentation helped scholars understand the technical and administrative benefits of using the portal, fostering a research environment that is both structured and supportive.

Participation of Jyotiranjan Gudia and Other Scholars

Among the scholars present was Jyotiranjan Gudia, a Ph.D. scholar in the School of Tribal Legal Studies and Tribal Rights, researching on the topic “Continuity and Changes of Traditional Political System of Didayi Tribe in Odisha: A Case Study of Malkangiri District.” He attended the session with enthusiasm and actively participated in the open discussion, raising insightful questions during the interactive segment. His presence and engagement reflected the spirit of inquiry and dedication shared by many scholars present at the meeting. For Jyotiranjan and his peers, the session was a chance to align their research journey with the institutional tools made available for their academic growth.

The Benefits of SodhChakra for Future Research

The implementation of SodhChakra is a step forward in promoting quality research and academic discipline at KISS Deemed to be University. The platform benefits scholars by providing clarity on their research timeline, ensuring transparency, and avoiding unnecessary delays due to procedural ambiguity. It also allows guides to track the progress of multiple scholars efficiently. Overall, this session marked a significant moment in the university’s academic calendar, reflecting its founder Dr. Achyuta Samanta’s vision of empowering tribal and underprivileged communities through education and research. As KISS continues to grow as a leading tribal university in the world, tools like SodhChakra ensure that the quality of research and the integrity of the academic process remain paramount.

 Kuni and Ranjan's First Love

On 6th January 2012, I joined a pre-coaching center called ‘Parimarjan’ in Khairput. It was organized by the district administration under the initiative of the then District Collector Mr. Balwant Singh, to help Class 10 students do well in their exams. I studied there for three months. Meanwhile, I was called back home to get my Aadhaar card made. So, on Saturday, 25th February 2012, I returned home. After returning, my friend Mohan Goud told me that a girl named Rashmi Pangi, with whom I had studied in primary school, had given her number to talk to me. I had left my mobile at home while going to the coaching center, and my SIM card had no balance. So, I went to Kudumulugumma to recharge and took Rashmi's number from Mohan.

Jyotiranjan Gudia, 2012 at Khairaput, Malkangiri District.

That evening, around 7:15 PM, I called the number given by Mohan. A girl picked up the phone. I asked, "Are you Rashmi?" She replied, "There’s no one named Rashmi here. Why are so many kids calling our house?" I said, "A father deserves respect, a mother is sacred, and a child is life itself." When I asked who she was, she didn’t answer. Again, when I asked her name, she said, "I don’t have a name." I said jokingly, "No name? Then are you Anamika (nameless)?" At that time, I was in Class 10 and the girl I was speaking to was in Class 8. I asked her about her family. She said, "Who isn’t in our house? Just me, my younger sister, and our mother." When I asked about her father, she said, "He doesn’t stay with us." Understanding it might be a sensitive issue, I didn’t ask further. At the end, she said, "I’m Rashmi’s friend." That was our first conversation. After that, I returned home. The next day was Sunday. Around 10 PM, I called the same number again, hoping to speak to Rashmi. Again, the same girl picked up. It was the second day, and it was my first time talking to a girl over the phone. Being in my youth, I naturally felt interested and continued the conversation. We talked until 3 in the morning. Before sleeping, I told her I wouldn’t be able to talk from the next day because I had to return to the coaching center by 7 AM. I wrote her number on a piece of paper and left my mobile phone at home. After reaching the coaching center, I borrowed a friend’s phone and called her to say that I had arrived safely.

Jyotiranjan Gudia has made this sketch for Kuni Nahak for the first time in 2012.

There, my friend Balkrishna from Balimela was about to return home. I drew a rose and two leaves on a picture and titled it "My Love 2012". I gave it to Balkrishna and asked him to hand it over to a girl in Balimela. Later, I called the girl and said that I had sent her a picture. That’s when I found out her name was Kuni. As I had no phone with a camera, I borrowed one from a friend, took a photo of that picture, and uploaded it to Facebook via Gmail. Two days later, she uploaded another picture beside it.

On 19th March 2012, the board exams started and were scheduled to end on 31st March. My first paper was Odia literature, and the second was English. But the English exam got canceled due to a paper leak. On the day of the English exam, at Khairput High School, I was sitting near a window. Suddenly, someone from outside threw a torn piece of paper that landed beside my desk. A PE teacher saw it and assumed I was cheating. He deducted 15 marks from my answer sheet. Even though I pleaded that I was innocent, he didn’t listen. I was heartbroken and couldn’t write anything further. When I came out crying, I heard that the exam was canceled due to a leak in Puri district. I silently thanked God. Exams resumed on 17th April and ended on 25th April. On 26th April, I returned home. I wrote a letter and gave it to my friend Balkrishna to give to Kuni. The letter said: "Dear Kuni, sending you my heartfelt wishes and love. My exams are over. I will meet you someday. I am fine. How are you? Are your sister and mother doing well? I feel like writing more, but I can’t express everything now. Yours, Jyoti." But Balkrishna didn’t deliver the letter and kept it with him.

On 27th April, I went to visit my friend Ram. His late father, Mr. Sania Kirshani, asked me to go with Ram’s mother to Balimela to withdraw money. We all went by bike. While at the SBI Bank in Balimela, I called Kuni and informed her I was in town and wanted to meet her. She gave me directions over the phone. Following those directions, I entered a lane beside a grocery shop near the Shiva temple. I passed a girl who was standing with some children. Suddenly, someone called out from behind, "I’m Kuni, I’m Kuni!" I turned around, parked the bike, and walked towards her. She waved her hand and again said, "I’m Kuni." I told her I would first collect the letter from my friend. I found Balkrishna and took back the letter. That was my first meeting with Kuni- the girl I had only spoken to over the phone. She was wearing a pink dress. I handed her the letter I had written. She was with some children, so I couldn’t clearly see her face, but I recognized her voice. Then I said goodbye.

From that day, we used to talk daily over the phone. She often asked me to come meet her, but I couldn’t because I only had access to a bike on Fridays when my father stayed at home. Despite her requests, we couldn’t meet on any other day. So, we both decided that Friday would be our lucky day.

I passed my Class 10 exam with 304 out of 600 marks, securing second division. I was the first in my family to pass Class 10. My father distributed sweets in the village. That evening, I informed Kuni about the result. In August, it was time for college admissions. While my friends applied to different colleges, I applied for +2 Science at Govindpalli College. But my father advised me to study in the city for a better future. I approached the Didayi Development Officer in Kudumulugumma and requested help. He asked for my marks. When I told him I had 50%, he asked me to meet him at 9 AM the next day in Khairput. I went, received a recommendation letter, and traveled with my father to Bhubaneswar. We went by train and met the principal of KISS College. I submitted the letter, but the principal asked for verification. I called the officer and made him speak to the principal.

The principal asked me to come again within two days. The last date of admission was 13th August, and I had gone on 11th. We returned home, gathered all documents, but had no money. My father borrowed ₹3,000 from my uncle Rameshwar. Despite Maoist blockades at Govindpalli, I managed to reach Jeypore by bike and bus, and then traveled to Bhubaneswar by train. I finally got admitted.

Hostel admission was still pending. So, I stayed at home until 22nd November 2012. Meanwhile, I studied as a non-regular student at Kudumulugumma College for about four months with the help of my late cousin Laxman. On 19th September 2012, during Ganesh Puja, I visited Kuni along with my friend Shukra. She brought her friends Shanti, Jyoti, and her younger sister Tuni. We all joined the celebration at her school. A group photo was taken on my Samsung Duos phone.

                                   

Ganesha Chaturthi 19th, September 2012 at Girl's High School, Balimela. Standing Jyotiranjan Gudia with Tuni Nahak, Kuni Nahak and Shanti.

One day, Kuni told me about a funny incident. A frog had entered her class and sat under her feet. She screamed, and all her classmates ran away. To comfort her, I drew a cartoon where a frog and a frog-bride were getting married under a tree. I gave it to her in Balimela. That day, she also took me to her tuition class. The frog wedding picture is shown below.

This sketch has made by Jyotiranjan Gudia for Kuni Nahak in 2012.