The Ajoobay Archive

In the dense, verdant forests of Kallar, nestled in Thiruvananthapuram, lives Lakshmikutty Amma, a tribal healer whose life is as entwined with the woods as the roots of the trees that surround her simple, thatched hut. At 75, she is a repository of traditional medicine, known affectionately as the "Grandmother of the Jungle." Lakshmikutty is not just a healer; she is a sage, carrying the wisdom of the Kaani tribe, and a beacon of hope to those who seek her help. Her journey into healing began in childhood, under the tutelage of her mother, a midwife whose knowledge of herbs and natural remedies was profound. Lakshmikutty's education was not in the classrooms of concrete buildings but in the lush canopy of the forest and the lore of her tribe. Over the years, she has memorized more than 500 medicinal treatments, a testament to her incredible memory and dedication [oai_citation:8,Lakshmikutty Amma: A life in tune with Mother Nature](https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/...

In the heart of India's technological revolution, where the threads of innovation intertwine with the pulses of its diverse cultures, stands Anivar Aravind—a relentless advocate for digital rights and linguistic inclusivity. Born and educated in Kerala, Aravind's journey into the tech world transcended the conventional pathways of a software engineer. His quest was not merely to advance technology but to democratize it, ensuring that every Indian could access and benefit from it, irrespective of their linguistic background. Aravind's narrative took a pivotal turn with the inception of the Indic Project. This initiative wasn't just a project but a movement to bring Indian languages to the forefront of digital accessibility. Under his leadership, the Indic Project developed tools like the Indic Keyboard, Varnam, and Dhvani—each a testament to the potential of open-source software in bridging language barriers. The Indic Keyboard alone supports 23 Indian languages, facilit...

Sudhanshu Biswas is not just a name etched in the annals of India’s freedom fight but a beacon of enduring service and compassion in the post-independence era. Born in 1917, his early years were steeped in the tumultuous period of India's struggle against British colonial rule. As a young man, Biswas was deeply influenced by the nationalist fervor and joined the Jugantar, a group known for its radical resistance. His involvement saw him actively participating in revolutionary activities, which earned him imprisonment on multiple occasions. Despite the hardships, his spirit remained unbroken, and his resolve to fight for justice only grew stronger【1】. The end of British rule did not mark the end of his battles; rather, it redirected them towards more constructive avenues. Inspired by the teachings of Swami Vivekananda, which advocate service to humanity as the highest form of worship, Biswas transformed his approach from armed rebellion to social reform. This transformative period i...

In the verdant hills of Meghalaya, amidst its mists and mysteries, stands a figure emblematic of resilience and reform. Patricia Mukhim, a journalist and activist, has not only shaped the narrative of this Northeastern state but also fought tirelessly for the rights of its marginalized communities. Her story is one of courage, controversy, and an unwavering commitment to justice. A Voice for the Voiceless Patricia Mukhim’s journey began in the challenging terrains of journalism. As the editor of The Shillong Times, she used her platform to spotlight the critical issues facing Meghalaya—from environmental degradation to the rights of indigenous people. Mukhim’s work has been pivotal in promoting the Khasi matrilineal society while advocating for necessary reforms to empower women within this framework [1][2]. Battling for Environmental Justice Mukhim’s fervent activism extends to environmental conservation, a cause close to her heart given Meghalaya’s rich natural heritage. Her relentle...

In the heart of Karnataka, where the shadows of the Western Ghats stretch far and wide, lives a guardian of the green. Tulsi Gowda, known as the “Encyclopedia of the Forest,” embodies the spirit of the earth in every breath she takes. Her life, deeply intertwined with the soil, is more than just a tale of a woman planting trees—it is a profound saga of survival, wisdom, and an indomitable bond with nature. Tulsi Gowda’s journey began in hardship. Born into the Halakki Vokkaliga tribe in Karnataka’s Honnalli village, she lost her father at the tender age of two. Poverty soon followed, forcing her to start working alongside her mother in a local nursery. “I did not play with dolls; I played with mud, leaves, and seeds,” she recalls, her eyes gleaming with the memory of her first sapling【1】【2】. Married before her teens, like many girls in her community, her path was carved by traditions and responsibilities. Yet, her connection with nature became her refuge and calling. A Bond with the Fo...