Halakki Vokkaligas are an indigenous community residing in many parts of Uttara Kannada district in coastal Karnataka. It was once a culture-rich tribe with an enormous treasure trove of folk songs passed down across generations. The ladies drape their saree (typically, green-colored cotton fabric) uniquely on an ankle-length underskirt, but without a blouse. This helps them withstand the scorching hot sun while working in the rice fields. On the day of Holi, they perform a dance called ‘Suggi Kunita’ with a distinctive attire and headdress. The tribe also possesses a vast knowledge of medicinal plants. The two notable Padma Shri awardees of the district belong to this community-Sukri Bommu Gowda in 2017 for her folk singing and social activism to save their fading tunes and Tulasi Gowda in 2020 for her encyclopedic knowledge of plants and large-scale tree plantations.

Due to modernization and other social and economic issues, their culture and traditions are fading away, like many other tribes across the country. The drastic lifestyle changes have led to the younger generation being ashamed of being identified as part of the tribe.

Objective of the Project

• The rest of the society is still unfamiliar with the treasure trove that this tribe possesses. The project aims to help them in visualizing the culture and traditions of Halakkis.

• Bringing light on their story and culture would provide a different outlook and reinforce our understanding of them.

• The younger generation is ashamed of being identified as part of the tribe. They need to have a greater sense of appreciation towards their heritage from a young age.

An illustrated documentation in the form of a narrative mainly targeted at middle school children would enrich their understanding of the Halakki tribe and its culture by bringing light on their rich heritage so that the younger generation does not shy away from identifying themselves with their roots.

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• Children of the Forest......