For the past two years, Chennai-based photographer Naveenraj Gowthaman has embarked on a captivating journey, documenting the vibrant and intricate lives of various tribal communities across Tamil Nadu. His lens has been particularly drawn to their unique festivals, capturing how these age-old celebrations have managed to remain unchanged amidst the evolving times. Naveenraj’s dedicated efforts are set to culminate in a magnificent display of 35 photographs at an exhibition titled ‘Roots & Rhythms: Tribal Tales’, hosted by DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum.
One of the highlights of his documentation is the Masi Magam festival celebrated by the Irulas. Held during the Tamil month of ‘masi’, this festival is a spectacle of cultural unity and devotion. “The community comes together to pay homage to their deity, Kanniamma,” explains Naveenraj. The festivities are set against the scenic backdrop of Mamallapuram beach near the iconic Shore temple. Here, both the young and the elderly gather, cooking pongal in pots over firewood, which is then offered to Kanniamma. The ritual culminates with participants collecting sea water to take back home, considered a blessing from their deity.
Naveenraj’s photographic journey extends to the remote tribal settlements in the Nilgiris, where he has spent considerable time capturing the lives and traditions of the Todas and Kothars. In particular, he has closely documented the annual festival celebrated by the Todas, a pastoral tribe known for their unique lifestyle. On the second day of this two-day festival, they specifically pray for the well-being of their cattle, especially buffaloes, which are crucial to their pastoral livelihood. “They celebrate it to pray for a good harvest the next year,” says Naveenraj, shedding light on the deep connection these tribes have with their environment and livestock.
In addition to these rich cultural depictions, Naveenraj’s exhibition also aims to shed light on the deeper social and familial structures within these tribes. His ambition is not just limited to capturing their festivals but extends to documenting the daily lives of every tribe in Tamil Nadu.
. “There are 36 tribes in the State and I hope to cover every aspect of their life — right from birth to death,” he states, acknowledging the monumental scope of his project. He anticipates this endeavor will span at least 15 years, reflecting his commitment to preserving these communities’ heritage through his art.
The resilience of these tribes in maintaining their traditions is a recurring theme in Naveenraj’s work. For instance, during the Masi Magam festival, it is common to see men and women who have relocated to far-off places for work, returning to Mamallapuram to partake in the festivities. “Many families walk for over a day from their hometowns to reach the seashore for the celebrations,” he notes, emphasizing the unwavering dedication these communities have towards their cultural practices. Despite the geographical and logistical challenges, they firmly hold on to their traditions and belief systems, offering a powerful testament to their cultural identity.
Naveenraj’s work is driven by a deep reverence for these communities and a profound understanding of the importance of preserving cultural narratives. His photos do not merely capture moments; they tell enduring stories of resilience, faith, and tradition. These visual narratives are not just art; they are a crucial documentation of cultures at risk of being overshadowed in an increasingly globalized world.
‘Roots & Rhythms: Tribal Tales’ promises to be more than just a photographic exhibition; it is an immersive journey into the heart of Tamil Nadu’s tribal heritage. Scheduled to be on display till August 28 at Kadambari Gallery, DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum in Muttukadu, the exhibition is open from 10 am to 6 pm on weekdays and from 10 am to 7 pm on weekends. This event not only celebrates the richness of Tamil Nadu’s tribal cultures but also underlines the importance of preserving these traditions for future generations.
Naveenraj Gowthaman’s endeavor is commendable, embodying a significant cultural project that seeks to capture and preserve the essence of tribal life in Tamil Nadu. As visitors walk through the exhibition, they are invited to not just see the photographs, but to connect with the stories of the tribes, to understand their way of life, and to appreciate the timeless beauty of their festivities.
