Jenu Kuruba Tribe
The Jenu Kuruba tribe has made headlines in 2025 for returning to their ancestral village in the Nagarhole Tiger Reserve. This marks assertion of Indigenous rights in India. After being evicted 40 years ago, over 50 families have begun rebuilding their homes. Their return is driven by a spiritual connection to the land and a desire to revive their traditional lifestyle.
About the Jenu Kuruba Tribe
- The Jenu Kuruba tribe is classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) and is mainly located in the Kodagu and Mysore regions of Karnataka.
- The term “Jenu Kuruba” is derived from the Kannada word jenu, meaning honey, denoting their traditional livelihood which revolves around collecting honey, foraging, and utilizing forest resources.
- Historically, their income has been dependent on land and forest-based activities.
- They are also known by other names, including “Then Kurumba” and “Kattu Naikar.” The community resides in small hamlets called Hadi.
- Social Structure:
- The Jenu Kuruba lead a semi-nomadic way of life, independent of control from formal authorities like rulers, police, or religious institutions.
- Their society is organized with a specific hierarchy, headed by a leader known as the Yajamana and a ritual head called the Gudda.
- All community matters—apart from religious ones—are handled within this internal structure.
- Beliefs and Culture:
- Their belief system is centered around supernatural beings, with whom they maintain a deep spiritual connection and reverence.
- They have distinct religious identities and practices.
- Their folk songs and dances often explore themes such as farming, weddings, legends, and spiritual traditions.
Historical Context of Indigenous Evictions
For decades, Indigenous communities in India have faced forced evictions. Government policies often prioritise conservation and tourism over Indigenous rights. This practice, known as Fortress Conservation, has led to the displacement of thousands. The Jenu Kuruba people, known for their deep connection to the forest, were among those affected.
The Role of Sacred Beliefs
The Jenu Kuruba’s return is rooted in their belief system. They regard the forest and its wildlife as sacred. Their spiritual connection to deities, including tigers, influences their way of life. The community believes that abandoning their ancestral land angered their sacred spirits. This belief has motivated their recent actions to reclaim their homes.
Community Resilience and Resistance
Despite threats from forest officials and police, the Jenu Kuruba community has shown remarkable resilience. They have voiced their frustration over the denial of their rights. Young leaders like Shivu have emerged, advocating for their ancestral land and opposing conservation models that exclude Indigenous people. Their resistance marks the ongoing struggle for recognition and justice.
Environmental Stewardship and Tiger Conservation
The Jenu Kuruba are adept at managing their environment. Their traditional practices contribute to the health of the forest and its wildlife. Studies suggest that tigers thrive in areas where Indigenous people inhabit. Their return to the Nagarhole Tiger Reserve may enhance conservation efforts. This challenges the notion that conservation and Indigenous rights are mutually exclusive.
The Future of Indigenous Rights in India
The Jenu Kuruba’s actions could set a precedent for other Indigenous communities in India. Their successful re-occupation raises questions about the future of conservation policies. As more Indigenous groups assert their rights, the government may need to reconsider its approach. The intersection of Indigenous rights and environmental conservation remains a critical issue.
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