The Jenu Kuruba community, relocated from their traditional forests, has found solace and empowerment in music. Led by Jenu Kuruba B Ramesh, The Kattunayakkars have transformed their frustration into protest songs, exposing the injustices faced by their people. Through performances at government events and collaborations with musicians like Charu Hariharan, the band has gained recognition and their music has found its way into Kannada films, connecting them to their past and advocating for their rights.
Amidst the verdant tapestry of the Western Ghats, the Jenu Kuruba community, an ancient lineage of honey gatherers, has endured generations of displacement and marginalization. Their plight has found a poignant voice in the music of The Kattunayakkars, a band formed two decades ago to channel their frustrations and preserve their cultural heritage.
Formed by Jenu Kuruba B Ramesh and his fellow tribesmen, The Kattunayakkars initially sang songs of protest, expressing their anger at being forcibly relocated from their ancestral lands in the Nagarhole forest to make way for tiger conservation projects. The band's raw and passionate performances resonated deeply with their community, who had long suffered from systemic neglect and discrimination.
Ramesh and his bandmates, drawn from the Jenu Kuruba settlement of Nanachi Gadde Hadi, lamented the lack of basic amenities and opportunities in their new surroundings. "They promised us roads, electricity, and water, but we're still living without them," said Ramesh, his voice tinged with frustration. "We can't even cultivate our own lands or build proper houses."
Despite the challenges, music has served as a beacon of hope for The Kattunayakkars. Through their songs, they have not only protested their treatment but also celebrated the rich cultural traditions of their ancestors. "We realized that music has the power to change things," said J S Rama Krishna, another founding member of the band. "It has opened our eyes to the world and given us a voice."
In recent years, The Kattunayakkars have gained wider recognition for their unique musical style, which seamlessly blends traditional instruments with modern influences. They have performed at prestigious venues across India, collaborating with renowned artists like Charu Hariharan and earning critical acclaim for their mesmerizing performances.
Their growing popularity has also led to opportunities in the film industry, with the band contributing songs to several Kannada films. "When I heard their music, I was immediately struck by its infectious beat and raw emotion," said Rudra Shiva, the director of the upcoming film "Shabhash," which features The Kattunayakkars. "I believe their music has the power to transcend cultural barriers and resonate with everyone who hears it."
The Kattunayakkars' success is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Jenu Kuruba community. Through their music, they have not only preserved their cultural heritage but also advocated for their rights and aspirations. Their songs have become a symbol of hope and inspiration for indigenous communities across India, proving that music can indeed be a powerful force for change.
