Jyotiranjan Gudia is an emerging scholar and artist, distinguished as the first person from the Didayi tribe to pursue an M. Phil. and a Ph.D. His academic work is deeply focused on the preservation and study of his community's heritage. The Didayi tribe is recognized as one of India's Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) and his commitment is rooted in his personal experience and dedication to his origins in Muduliguda village, Malkangiri district, Odisha, where he was born on May 1, 1997. As a Ph.D. scholar at the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) Deemed to be University in Bhubaneswar, his primary research is centered on political and tribal studies. His doctoral thesis is titled "Continuity and Changes of Traditional Political System of Didayi Tribe in Odisha: A Case Study of Malkangiri District." This intensive research involves extensive fieldwork, active participation in village rituals and festivals and interviews with community elders, reflecting his commitment to indigenous knowledge systems. Jyotiranjan Gudia has published multiple academic papers in national and international journals, showcasing his depth of knowledge across various aspects of the Didayi community's life. His scholarly contributions cover diverse topics, including traditional political systems, art and culture, economics, marriage customs, gender roles and visual narratives. He has also presented his research at various seminars, including those organized by institutions like Ravenshaw University and Utkal University. Beyond his rigorous academic pursuits, Jyotiranjan Gudia is also a talented visual artist, particularly known for his paintings and calligraphy. His artistic journey began in his school days, where he honed his craft by decorating school walls and creating art despite limited resources. He has since been noted for his public performances, such as live sketches of public figures. His journey is one of remarkable transition, bridging the gap between his indigenous identity and the broader academic and creative platforms. His work is driven by a profound sense of responsibility to document and preserve the socio-political and cultural heritage of the Didayi tribe, ensuring that their traditions are not overlooked in mainstream discourse. His scholarship is often described as being rooted in empathy and cultural sensitivity.
The photograph depicts Jyotiranjan Gudia in a formal, professional setting, reflecting his status as a dedicated scholar. He is wearing a dark suit, a light shirt and a tie, with glasses, suggesting an air of intellectual and professional composure. His arms are folded as he leans against a light-colored pillar or wall. The backdrop, which appears to be a doorway or exterior of a building, is simple and functional, keeping the focus entirely on his poised and dignified presence. His formal attire signifies his achievement and commitment to a professional career in academia and research. His artistic skills have not only served as a means of expression but also as a source of early income, with him creating artwork for school and college events, religious festivals and even local hospitals in his region. This blend of scholarly dedication and artistic talent makes his contribution to the Didayi community's visibility multifaceted. Ultimately, Jyotiranjan Gudia’s life story, as illuminated by his academic and artistic work, exemplifies a commitment to advocacy and inclusive development through research. He embodies the ideal of a leader who is both deeply grounded in his tribal heritage and fully equipped to navigate and contribute to the modern world through scholarly excellence.
