Graphic Novel SUNDARGARH
Echoes of Sundargarh: Reclaiming Heritage
In Sundargarh, women advocate for the preservation of ancestral foods, traditional culture, and economic empowerment through self-sufficiency and community support.
The forest held many forgotten treasures, like mahul, once a staple food for all.
“Mahul was food for our ancestors; it can nourish us still!”— Gitanjali
Many women dreamed of independence, but lacked the initial push for their ventures.
“With just twenty thousand rupees, we could cultivate vegetables to sell!”— Gitanjali
Beyond sustenance, their ancestral heritage—language, dances, and games—was slowly fading.
“Our language and dances are getting hidden; we must teach our children.”— Gitanjali
By embracing their roots and empowering their women, a vibrant future could be built.
“We can preserve our ancient ways, food to culture, for generations.”— Gitanjali
Traditional KnowledgeWomen's EmpowermentCultural PreservationCommunity DevelopmentForest ProductsEconomic Independence