Hor Disom: Santal interpretation centre

Abstract

The Santals are known as one of the oldest and largest group of indigenous community in the northwestern region of Bangladesh. Today they are one of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable indigenous communities as well. Ignorance to their basic needs have marginalized them to such an extent that their existence in Bangladesh is currently at stake. Their socio economic state is initiating changes in their deep rooted culture. Culturally they are in a transitional state of situation where their ethnic identity is at the verge of getting lost. If this process of cultural disintegration and transformation continues under the intervention of external forces, time may come when they will have a new social and cultural formation, leaving behind their distinct cultural traditions and traits. If they realize to nurture their own age long tradition, culture and religious belief, it is possible to grow as a community that is self-sufficient. With a little help and awareness they can come out from the obscurity. This project proposal will aim to give the Santal community a direction to evolve without overlooking their cultural values.