Inspiring story: In the realm of resistance and empowerment, Adivasi poet and journalist Jacinta Kerketta stands tall as a positive force. Her recent decision to decline a literary award sheds light on her commitment to the oppressed populations she passionately represents through her work.
Let’s delve into the inspiring journey of Jacinta Kerketta, a beacon of hope for tribal communities.
Early Struggles and Motivation:
Kerketta’s journey began amidst adversity when her uncle faced false accusations, and consequently, her grandmother was unjustly incarcerated. Growing up in Bihar’s Oraon Adivasi community, she witnessed the deep-rooted stigma against her people. This early experience fueled her determination to challenge the status quo, leading her to independent journalism.
Journalism as a Tool for Change:
Between 2010 and 2013, Kerketta worked as a reporter, tackling issues such as gender politics, tribal exploitation for land, and the impacts of colonization. She emphasizes the need for tribal voices in journalism, stating that when equipped with the same skills, their impact is unparalleled. Kerketta believes mainstream media can be a powerful agent of change, challenging stereotypes about tribal communities.
Educational Empowerment:
As a second-generation graduate, Kerketta credits her parents and a mission school in Jharkhand’s forests for her education. Consequently, her mother’s determination to break the cycle of marginalization inspired Kerketta’s hunger for knowledge and agency. Despite facing discrimination outside her close-knit community, Kerketta excelled academically and began contributing articles on the importance of tribal life to newspapers and magazines.
Existential Quest and Early Achievements:
At 15, Kerketta confronted caste supremacy when she ventured outside her community. Excelling academically, she stood first in class 8, therefore proving that success could coexist with maintaining one’s identity and values. This victory fueled her belief that other girls in her community could achieve similar breakthroughs.
Empowering Youth Through Dialogue:
Over the past two decades, Kerketta has traveled extensively, engaging with marginalized communities in Jharkhand. During her journeys, her evenings are often spent in dialogue with young tribal girls, encouraging them to reflect on their dreams and challenges. These discussions, rooted in the merits of tribal life, provide hope and foster independent thinking among the girls.
Impact on Communities:
Kerketta’s simple yet profound interactions have sparked positive change. Consequently, in Kachchabari village, many girls rejected child marriages, pursued education, and resisted leaving for urban employment. As a result, the village formed a collective to address challenges, leading to government jobs for some and increased school enrollment.
Recognition and Awards:
Kerketta’s impactful work hasn’t gone unnoticed. She received the Voice of Asia Recognition Award in 2014 and was named one of the 22 self-made women of India by Forbes India in 2022. Furthermore, Her words serve as a reminder of the intrinsic role of indigenous populations in preserving the environment and biodiversity.
Advocacy Through Poetry and Prose:
Kerketta’s poems in Hindi and Sadri passionately advocate for nature, portraying a vivid picture of the imminent destruction humanity faces. Furthermore, through her non-fiction writings, she elaborates on legal provisions safeguarding tribals and emphasizes their profound connection with nature, a relationship integral to their identity and values.
Conclusion:
Jacinta Kerketta’s journey from adversity to empowerment is inspiring. Through journalism, education, and heartfelt dialogues, she empowers tribal communities, challenging stereotypes and advocating for positive change. Kerketta’s impactful words and actions reinforce the importance of recognizing and amplifying the voices of the oppressed.
