The Mal Paharia, one of the oldest tribal communities in Jharkhand, is now working to preserve their rich cultural and ecological knowledge, much of which has been passed down orally through generations. At a recent gathering in Amrapara block of Pakur district, elders, youth, and women from several villages came together to share age-old wisdom about the land, forests, and medicinal plants essential to their way of life.
With an estimated population of around 2.25 lakh across Jharkhand and West Bengal, the Mal Paharia hold detailed knowledge of their natural environment, including the plants and animals of their region, and a cultural heritage expressed through songs, proverbs, and rituals. During the workshop, participants identified and recorded plants connected to their history, healing practices, and festivals, carefully verifying each entry as a group. Conversations also touched on how natural cycles, seasonal changes, and the spiritual importance of local species shape their farming, food gathering, and health traditions.
The group included voices across generations—from Shyamlal Ahari, a teacher from Amlagaria, to Janardan Paharia, the village head of Bodo Pahar, as well as retired educators and young members of the community. Women actively shared knowledge about wild edible plants, herbal remedies, and ceremonial uses.
Though part of a larger research project supported by the Indian Council of Social Science Research, the focus of this effort remained firmly on community-led preservation. Researchers from the Central University of Jharkhand acted as facilitators, recording and confirming information without altering the original context.
For the Mal Paharia, this is not just academic work—it’s about preserving identity, memory, and survival amid growing challenges like shrinking forests and youth migration. “If we forget the names of these plants, we will forget who we are,” said Shyamlal Ahari.