Pilanka Katha (Banjara) - I

Abstract

Odisha is the homeland of 62 different tribal communities. They speak in 22 different language. On the basis of regional variation, these languages are further sub divided into different sub-languages. This diversity of languages and their sub-groups creates an enriching literal environment. The language spoken and followed in schools run by the ST & SC Development, Minorities & Backward Class Welfare Department differ from schools run by School and Mass Education Department. Students from various regions, speaking different languages and dialects, study in these residential schools. Since the language spoken and the culture of each region are different, it becomes difficult for students to interact with each other. The schools follow the State board pattern in imparting education to them. Teachers who are also a part of the State board are required to develop special skills to teach the children from different cultures. To fulfill this requirement, educational materials along with special training programs are necessary to help unite the students from different regions and culture and help the students to integrate into the educational system. ST & SC Development, Minorities & Backward Class Welfare Department has taken a number of steps as follows to achieve this. Firstly, it organizes, periodically, training programs for primary school teachers to improve their teaching skill in a multilingual environment. Secondly, teachers teaching in class I and class II are provided with curriculum based bilingual and trilingual dictionaries. Thirdly, pictorial books have been developed for children, based on their folktales, songs and riddles, in their native languages. These books will not only give satisfaction to children but also make others aware about the contribution of tribal culture in shaping our mainstream practices. This book, primarily based on the rich culture of the region, is an anthology of tales in the Banjara language.