Team Herald
PONDA: The nomadic Katkari-Vanarmare tribe residing in Nirankal-Bethora, despite facing numerous challenges, is celebrating a seven-day Ganesh festival this year. The tribal community, consisting of around 90 people, began worshipping Lord Ganesha in their locality a few years ago. Previously living in primitive conditions without access to electricity, water, or toilets, their plight gained attention about a decade ago when 13 of their huts were demolished by unknown individuals.
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This prompted local social workers to approach the Human Rights Commission, leading to some government intervention. Basic amenities like tap water and solar-powered lights were eventually provided, with fellow Goans also contributing clothes and other essentials, so they could rebuild their lives.
Before the Covid-19 pandemic, the celebrations were low-key. In 2020, the tribe made a special prayer to Lord Ganesha for protection from the pandemic, and as none of them were affected, they marked this by organising a grand 11-day celebration in 2022. This year, they opted for a seven-day festival.
Tribal community member Deepak Nikam noted that while their living conditions have improved slightly, many challenges remain. Basic identification documents such as birth certificates, Aadhaar cards, ration cards, and election cards were provided, along with access to toilet facilities, tap water, and temporary infrastructure like roads and electricity poles. However, Nikam emphasised the need for reliable and proper power connections to aid their children’s education and better housing to improve their quality of life.
