Grassroots Dialogue with Tribal Elders: Previewing Summer School in Jawhar

As we look ahead to May 2026, Bharat Calling journeys to Jawhar in Palghar district — a landscape steeped in indigenous heritage, vibrant community traditions, and pioneering models of tribal self-governance under PESA.

Dialogue Under the Village Tree

True learning begins by listening. Sitting with village elders under the shade of ancient trees, scholars will discuss indigenous folklore, traditional conflict resolution, and the lived realities of forest-dwelling communities.

"Village assemblies under the community tree are not just administrative gatherings; they are the living heartbeat of grassroots democracy, indigenous wisdom, and collective stewardship."

Key Immersion Focus Areas

• PESA & Gram Sabha Dynamics: Direct interactions with tribal representatives on forest rights and self-rule.
• Ethnobotany & Forest Trails: Documenting native medicinal plants and watershed management with local naturalists.
• Warli Art Masterclass: Learning ancient sacred geometry and storytelling from indigenous master artists.
• Policy Synthesis: Co-creating actionable youth engagement blueprints for tribal welfare.

Applications for the May 2026 cohort are open for undergraduate, postgraduate, and research scholars eager to experience this blend of governance, ecology, and grassroots leadership.