NECESSITY OF CULTURE-ORIENTED STUDIES IN THE TRIBAL EDUCATION: A STUDY OF NARAYAN’S KOCHARETHI
Sushma Robert, U. Vijayasarathi
Ph.D. Research Scholars,Department of English, Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract: India is a diverse nation that comprises n number of ethnic groups; each of them is enriched with their own distinctive custom, faith, language, and worshiping method. Since unity in diversity is supposed to be the strength of India, exercising a common education pattern for the entire nation will dilute the concept of diversity and it, to a certain extent, will fall under a single umbrella of identity. To preserve the strength of India, culture-based education is necessary. Due to the advancement of technology and Western influences, even some Indians also cut themselves off gradually from their root. In this regard, tribal culture and practices are needed to be conserved. When the tribes get introduced to a new environment, culture, practice, and language, they may happen to think that their culture and legacy are lower than that of what they get newly introduced to. It could vividly be witnessed through the act of conversion of tribes into other religions and the change in their living pattern. Along with making tribes aware of the outer world and technology through education, it is also essential to make them stick with their root. Hence, incorporating culture-oriented studies in the tribe’s education is mandatory.
Keywords: Preservation of diversity, Ignorance of tribes, Need for education, and Essence of culture-based education.