KARACHI: Writing about indigenous communities, folk wisdom and different cultures demands a scientific approach and methodology, but Jhang Ja Manhu, a new book in Sindhi written by Khalid Kumbhar, is being seen as a valuable contribution to anthropological scholarship.
The 200-page book covers the culture, history, customs and traditions of indigenous communities such as Kabotra, Gurgla, Jogee, Jhandawra and Rebari. Kumbhar also discusses in it the techniques of traditional hunting and weaves in people who still rely on folk wisdom. Another interesting topic he mentions is that of traditional methods of tracing thefts through examining footprints, even if they’re only there on sand.
“There are people who can predict how much rain will fall four months before the monsoons begin,” said Kumbhar. “Then there are others who can forecast all sorts of disasters, such as drought.”
“The book is one of an anthropological nature, and while it lacks scientific methodology, it is still extremely helpful for students and researchers,” commented Rafique Wassan, a lecturer at the University of Sindh’s anthropology and archaeology department.
Wassan said that there is rarely any research on vulnerable tribes and their traditions. “Kumbhar’s work provides primary data, which is very fruitful for the students of anthropology,” he added.
“While the book adopts a journalistic approach, it is still useful for students and researchers who want to learn about indigenous communities,” said Ghulam Hussain Mahesar, a PhD student at the Quaid-e-Azam University in Islamabad.
Mahesar said that living within or near such communities is a rich opportunity which few people avail. “I remember only a few books on such topics,” he added. “Students and researchers write about them, but their writings are not available in the form of books.”
“I live very near to these tribes and love to write about their unusual customs,” Kumbhar said, adding that while he lacked the scientific methods of anthropological research, his book was an attempt to spread knowledge. “I hope researchers will verify what I have written and make more appropriate contributions to this topic.”
Published in The Express Tribune, September 1st, 2014.
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