Indigenous Studies - Page 2

The Capitalocene Versus Indigenous Eco-justice in Helon Habila’s Oil on Water

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Trina Bose
Assistant Professor: Brainware University.

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 1, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.12
[Article History: Received: 15 December 2023. Revised: 19 February 2024. Accepted: 20 February 2024. Published: 24 February 2024]

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Abstract

Capitalistic disruptions on the face of the earth and the consequent climatic changes appear as serious global threats in the contemporary era caused by uncontrolled materialistic quests. Helon Habila’s Oil on Water depicts the saga of the perpetual predicament of the dehumanized Indigenous people in Nigeria, who inhabit a land of contaminated water, soil, air, and food induced by inconsiderate oil mining of the British oil companies which colonize and hegemonize both the human and the non-human world. Habila juxtaposes an unyielding decolonizing movement through the revolt of the Indigenous people against the oil extracting companies for eco-justice, which causes decay and death in the vulnerable Indigenous communities. The human-nature dichotomy triggered by capitalism translates into the massive destruction of the livelihood of the poor Indigenous people who rely on natural resources for survival and are not responsible for the detrimental environmental metamorphoses leading to their unemployment and displacements. Using the theoretical framework of eco-Marxism, this study examines the conflict between the commodification of nature and indigenous environmental justice in the Niger Delta. It investigates the politics of oil extraction and how it impacts the people of the region.

Keywords: Climatic changes, eco-justice, Indigenous people, oil mining, Niger Delta.

Sustainable Development Goals: Climate Action, Life on Land

Citation: Bose, T. (2024). The Capitalocene Versus Indigenous Eco-justice in Helon Habila Oil on Water. Rupkatha Journal 16:1. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.12 

Biodiversity, Ecomusicology and Fostered Nominal Ecology

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Damilare Ogunmekan1* , Margaret Akpevweoghene Efurhievwe2 & Igue Philo Okpeki3
1Department of Creative Arts, University of Lagos, Nigeria. Corresponding author.
2Department of Music, Delta State University, Nigeria. efurhievwema@delsu.edu.ng
3Department of Music, Delta State University, Nigeria. okpekiphilo@gmail.com

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 1, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.10
[Article History: Received: 31 December 2023. Revised: 19 February 2024. Accepted: 20 February 2024. Published: 21 February 2024]

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Abstract

The trajectory of different nations of the world has recently been fixated on climate actions and sustainability. The African continent has joined the train too, as countries begin to take strides toward the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals on sustainable society and climate action. Thus, it becomes necessary to inquire about the viability of a combination of the traditional beliefs and cultural ethos with ecological projects, in achieving these sustainable development goals. Could the already established indigenous systems in Africa be of practical contribution to the protection of biodiversity, environmental sustainability, and other climate actions? Could these already institutionalised and ethnographic programmes engender inclusive climate activity? Nigeria boasts of diverse ecological and biocentric indigenous beliefs, cultures and practices. One of such is the Osun-Osogbo sacred grove. This grove is a concentration of flora and fauna diversity, which has been preserved for years and has also been rooted in spiritual and physical beliefs. Some of the fauna species found in this grove are the African Civet, African giant Snail, and African giant Rat, among others which include Aves. Some flora species include African teak, Camwood, Palm tree, bamboo, and a host of others. Also, music has played a major role in the advocacy for conservation and environmental protection. Singing some songs at the Osun-Osogbo grove and during the Osun-Osogbo festival ensures orientation, sensitisation and promotion of eco-friendly habits, thereby serving ecomusicological purposes. This study therefore focuses on the Osun-Osogbo grove and indigenous values to present a possible sustainable society. Thus, as a response to climate change, this paper draws on these values and the Osun-Osogbo grove to propose conservationism, and artificial cultivation of biodiversity for climate change adaptation, mitigation and resilience, using indigenous methods.

Keywords: biodiversity, climate change, great green wall, conservationism, ecomusicology.

Sustainable Development Goals: Climate Action, Life on Land

Citation: Ogunmekan, D., Efurhievwe, M.A. & Okpeki, I.P. (2024). Biodiversity, Ecomusicology and Fostered Nominal Ecology. Rupkatha Journal 16:1. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.10 

Nature’s Notes: Analyzing the Environmental Advocacy in the Deuda Songs of Nepal

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Saroj GC1*   & Bhupesh Joshi2     
1Assistant Professor, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal. *Corresponding author.
2Lecturer, Durga Laxmi Multiple Campus, Far-western University, Mahendranagar, Nepal.

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 1, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.09
[Article History: Received: 30 December 2023. Revised: 14 February 2024. Accepted: 15 February 2024. Published: 19 February 2024]

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Abstract

Deuda songs, originating from the mid-and far-western regions of Nepal, represent a rich musical folk genre deeply rooted in the culture and lifestyle of the performing communities. This paper explores the Deuda songs as potential environment-oriented texts, aiming to unravel the environmental concerns and nature-centric devotion encapsulated within these melodies. By employing the lenses of cultural ecology and ecocritical perspective, this analysis sheds light on the intricate relationship between these folk songs and the natural world. Examining the Deuda songs reveals a profound emphasis on the co-existence and interdependence of human society and nature. The study finds that the lyrical content critiques anthropocentric activities and demonstrates a heightened ecological consciousness among the performers. These findings underscore the critical role played by the Deuda songs in fostering environmental awareness and their potential as powerful tools for environmental advocacy. Furthermore, this paper advocates for additional research to uncover the broader significance of the Deuda songs as integral components of the region’s cultural heritage. It also proposes their incorporation into educational and environmental policies to enhance ecological consciousness on a wider scale. Recognizing the educational potential of the Deuda songs, this study encourages their inclusion in curricula to promote a more comprehensive understanding of the intricate connection between culture, nature, and sustainable living. Overall, the exploration of the Deuda songs serves as a gateway to a deeper understanding of environmental concerns within the cultural fabric of the mid-and far-western regions of Nepal.

Keywords: Deuda songs, ecology, folklore, environmental narratives, ecological advocacy

Sustainable Development Goals: Climate Action, Life on Land

Citation: G.C., S. & Joshi, B. (2024). Nature’s Notes: Analyzing the Environmental Advocacy in the Deuda Songs of Nepal. Rupkatha Journal 16:1. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.09 

Orality and Indigenous Environmentalism in Sarah Joseph’s Gift in Green

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Darpana Gogoi      
Research Scholar, Department of English, Gauhati University, Guwahati, Assam, India

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 1, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.08
[Article History: Received: 30 December 2023. Revised: 08 February 2024. Accepted: 10 February 2024. Published: 13 February 2024]

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Abstract

In recent times, the growing recognition of the significance of indigenous storytelling extends beyond its role as a cultural repository, encompassing its potential as a wellspring of ecological and ethical insights. In this era of rapid change and globalization, understanding and appreciating the role of indigenous storytelling becomes all the more essential. It serves as a crucial reminder that, beyond the visible diversity of languages, customs, rituals, and traditions, there exists a profound shared heritage woven through narratives that have sustained these communities for ages. This study examines indices of indigenous environmental protection in Sarah Joseph’s Gift in Green (2011). The central focus of this study lies in the portrayal of storytelling nights within the narrative, arguing that storytelling not only serves as a vital instrument for cultural preservation but also manifests as an expression of environmental consciousness. Thus, this study, through a close reading of Sarah Joseph’s text unravels the transformative influence of cultural performances within indigenous communities, elucidating their role in nurturing ecological awareness and fostering sustainable practices.

Keywords: oral tradition, ecosystem people, indigenous storytelling, environmental ethics, resilience.

Sustainable Development Goals: Climate Action, Life on Land

Citation: Gogoi, D. (2024). Orality and Indigenous Environmentalism in Sarah Joseph’s Gift in Green. Rupkatha Journal 16:1. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.08 

Indigenous Festivals as a Tool for Forest Preservation and Cultural Revival in Nigeria

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Blessing Adjeketa1* , Alphonsus Shireku2   & Oliogu Tunde Obado3      
1,3Department of Creative Arts, Dennis Osadebey University, Nigeria. *Corresponding author.
2Department of Theatre Arts, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 1, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.07
[Article History: Received: 15 December 2023. Revised: 08 February 2024. Accepted: 08 February 2024. Published: 10 February 2024]
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Abstract

The United Nations states that more than four million hectares of African forests are being cut down annually. Policies being taken by governments to combat this scourge have continued to hit brick walls. However, in precolonial African societies, forests were significant in the sustenance of the lives of the people, insects, and animals that dwelt therein. The trees in the forests serve as medicinal herbs and also provide shelter for the metaphysical beings believed to determine the existence of the living. People lived in forested terrains as a result of the close relationship between the African and his natural environment. Festivals were celebrated to venerate the forests and solidify man’s kinship with the woods.  However, a question that is pertinent at this juncture is: what could be responsible for the massive deforestation of trees and the disconnection of the African from his natural environment on the continent? What alternative solutions could be used to replace the top-down approaches instituted by the government? This study examines the trajectory of the disconnection of the African from his natural environment and investigates the factors responsible for this displacement. I argue that policies formulated by the government are not enough to mitigate deforestation and displacement of communities. The contention here is that Threats of fines and other punitive measures were no deterrent to people cutting down trees to sell. Also, with the failure of the government’s policies on the preservation of forests, indigenous communities impacted by deforestation should employ traditional festivals to promote the conservation of forests and improve traditional medicine. The Edegberode festival of the Sapele people in Nigeria is used as a paradigm of this study.

Keywords: Deforestation, forest preservation, forest conservation Edegborode Community, Indigenous Festival, Performances, Traditional Medicine.

Sustainable Development Goals: Climate Action, Life on Land

Citation: Adjeketa, B. Shireku, A & Obado, OT (2024). Indigenous Festivals as a Tool for Forest Preservation and Cultural Revival in Nigeria. Rupkatha Journal 16:1. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.07 

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Indigenous Environmentalism through Dance: The Ohaji-Egbema Experiment in South-Eastern Nigeria

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Princewill Chukwuma Abakporo*¹   & Stanley Timeyin Ohenhen²  
1,2 Theatre Arts Programme, Bowen University, Iwo Osun State, Nigeria. *Corresponding author.

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 1, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.06
[Article History: Received: 21 November 2023. Revised: 08 February 2024. Accepted: 08 February 2024. Published: 10 February 2024
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Abstract

Scholars in the environmental humanities have engaged critically in how literature and the performing arts have absorbed the spirit of environmentalism as other disciplines have done. The greening of the humanities has been a subject of discussion from the last quarter of the 20th century. Ecoliterary discourse, ecofilms and ecomusicology have become buzz concepts in the arena of the environmental discourse. However, we argue in this study, that there is a paucity of critical works on how indigenous dance art forms can be used to communicate environmental stability, ecological consciousness, and be used as a medium to resist anthropocentric ideals. The questions that this paper raises are: In what ways can indigenous dances in Nigeria communicate ecological consciousness in the country? How and to what extent can indigenous dances be employed to discuss culture-nature entanglements in degraded sites? The researchers relied on Indigenous Standpoint theory, existing literature, interviews, and focus group discussions with stakeholders (indigenes, ministry heads, and oil company employees) and visits to oil-degraded sites in Ohaji/Egbema for information on the taxonomy, politics, and conflicts of space and oil in the region.  In line with data gathered, indigenous songs and dances were packaged and performed to provide the much-needed platform for stakeholders (indigenes, government and oil firms) to rethink environmentally oppressive actions in the region toward ensuring environmental stewardship. This study examines the ways in which indigenous dance in Igbo land, Nigeria, can embody indices of indigenous environmentalism. It can also be a path towards decolonizing colonial ecological frameworks and epistemologies.

Keywords: Environmentalism, Ecosystem, Ecological consciousness, Decolonization, Indigenous Standpoint Theory, Indigenous Dance, Ohaji/Egbema

Sustainable Development Goals: Climate Action, Life on Land

Citation: Abakporo, P. C . & Ohenhen, S.T. (2024). Indigenous Environmentalism through Dance: The Ohaji-Egbema Experiment in South-Eastern Nigeria. Rupkatha Journal 16:1. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.06 

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Weaving Dreams of a World Among Worlds: T’nalak of the T’boli as an Ecological Practice

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Leni dlR. Garcia1 & Hazel T. Biana2*   
1,2 Professor of Philosophy, Department of Philosophy, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines. *Corresponding author

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 1, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.05
[Article History: Received: 28 December 2023. Revised: 06 February 2024. Accepted: 07 February 2024. Published: 08 February 2024]
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Abstract

George Marshall claims that environmental advocacy does not get enough traction despite the urgency of the climate crisis because of two things.  One, the human brain reacts to things that are personal, definite, visible, and urgent. Climate change does not exhibit any of these and, thus, tends to be ignored. Two, most consciousness-raising efforts take the scientific route, disseminating information using technical jargon.  While it appeals to the analytic side of the brain, it does not compel action.  The brain’s intuitive/emotional side must be affected to elicit an effective response to an event.   Affect is achieved creatively, especially through stories with which people can identify. The modern world, however, shuns stories as pre-scientific, outmoded, and false. Using a pluriversal view where the coexistence of different but overlapping epistemologies is imaginable, this paper shows that the reactivation of marginalized knowledge systems could counter the dominance and universalism of the (Western) modern world. Traditional epistemologies, as performances, could model the intuitive and personal relationship with the environment claimed to be effective in compelling climate action. It demonstrates this through the t’nalak culture of the T’boli, one of the Indigenous Peoples of the Philippines.  T’nalak-making is a sacred ritual that performs a cultural ecology that sees the world as divine, composed of spiritual beings that guard natural resources.  As such, the T’boli build relationships with them by respecting and caring for the environment where these spirits dwell and rule. As the t’nalak gains wide recognition through the performance of the annual T’nalak Festival and the t’nalak itself gains protection from modern systems as an intellectual property, the t’nalak-based cultural ecology could inspire a similar attitude toward the planet to help mitigate the effect of climate change.

Keywords: T’boli, T’nalak, Cultural Ecology, Pluriverse, Performance

Sustainable Development Goals: Climate Action, Life on Land

Citation: Garcia, L. D. & Biana, H.T. (2024). Weaving Dreams of a World Among Worlds: T’nalak of the T’boli as an Ecological Practice. Rupkatha Journal 16:1. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.05 

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Palliating War Trauma: Exploring the Therapeutic Role of Nature in Silko’s Ceremony

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Sini Jacob1  & Benoy Kurian Mylamparambil2  
1,2 Assistant Professor, St. George’s College Aruvithura, Kottayam, India. *Corresponding author.

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 1, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.04
[Article History: Received: 31 December 2023. Revised: 03 February 2024. Accepted: 04 February 2024. Published: 08 February 2024]
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Abstract

Trauma has been part of human life both in its everyday and extreme forms. Man often experiences multidimensional crises leading to unanticipated trauma. Trauma includes experiences of fear, terror, and disempowerment that overpower the defence mode, threatening to paralyze the vital functions of a person or community. Marginalized people and communities who are exposed to extreme forms of atrocities are constantly exposed to traumatic experiences. The imaginative literature has a special sensitivity and affinity to trauma, offering insights into the survivors’ mentality. Moreover, it can offer reparative practices that can lead to healing. The cognitive richness and suggestive power of literature can serve as a complex medium of trauma representation. There are diverse ways of professionally dealing with trauma. Ecological modes of engagement characterized by ecological connectivity and reconstruction, lead to holistic healing for traumatized individuals. This study examines how trauma victims engaged or inter-meshed with nature are healed quickly and how the experience of nature becomes an active component of their rehabilitation.  In Leslie Marmon Silko’s literary masterpiece, Ceremony, the intricate interplay between war trauma, culture, and the environment is delicately examined to unravel the profound ways in which nature serves as a healing agent in the present world. By creating a nature-based ceremony, Silko’s novel showcases how Indigenous cultures use their ecological knowledge leading to holistic healing, that transcends individual pain and trauma.

Keywords: trauma, healing, indigenous, cultural ecology, victimization.

Sustainable Development Goals: Climate Action, Life on Land

Citation: Sini Jacob, S. & Mylamparambil, B.K. (2024). Indigenous Festivals and Climate Sustainability in India: A Case Study of Cultural Practices and Performances. Rupkatha Journal 16:1. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.04 

Indigenous Festivals and Climate Sustainability in India: A Case Study of Cultural Practices and Performances

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Ayan Mondal1*   & Maya Shanker Pandey2
1Research Scholar, Department of English, Banaras Hindu University. *Corresponding author.
2Senior Professor, Department of English, Banaras Hindu University.

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 1, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.03
[Article History: Received: 30 December 2023. Revised: 03 February 2024. Accepted: 04 February 2024. Published: 05 February 2024]
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Abstract

With the inadequacy of the Western frameworks in addressing climate change, there is a need to integrate indigenous knowledge systems into the global framework to harness climate sustainability. The historical marginalization of the indigenous people in India in the colonial era has continued through the present postcolonial era, leading to environmental exploitation and social dislocation of the Adivasis. This has resulted in a severance of the transmission of sustainable practices embedded in the tribal cultures into the global framework. Advocating for the integration of indigenous ecological wisdom into global strategies, this paper will highlight the significance of tribal festivals like ‘Sarhul,’ ‘Baha,’ and ‘Kunde Habba’ in reinforcing climate resilience. Indian tribal festivals have traditionally popularised sustainable practices and rituals to stay in harmony with nature, and the sacred sites located in the indigenous communities function as sites for rituals and festivals fostering ecological sustainability. This paper explores how tribal art forms like ‘Warli’ and ‘Gond’ art imbue communities with ecological consciousness and resilience, and through storytelling and artistic expressions, it raises awareness about climate issues and empowers communities to safeguard ecosystems vital for all life forms. This paper asserts that traditional performance cultures, manifested through rituals, dances, and art, serve as catalysts for sustainable practices, biodiversity conservation, and community resilience, and advocates for a recentring of the indigenous performances to resist Anthropocentric and Capitalocentric practices.

Keywords: Anthropocene, climate crisis, ecological sustainability, indigenous knowledge, tribal performances

Sustainable Development Goals: Climate Action, Life on Land

Citation: Mondal, A. & Pandey, M.S. (2024). Indigenous Festivals and Climate Sustainability in India: A Case Study of Cultural Practices and Performances. Rupkatha Journal 16:1. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.03 

Resisting Eco-colonialism Through Indigenous Epistemologies and Performances in Nigeria

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Stanley Timeyin Ohenhen1* & Princewill Chukwuma Abakporo²
¹,² Theatre Arts Programme, Bowen University, Iwo Osun State, Nigeria. *Correspondng author. 

Rupkatha Journal, Vol. 16, Issue 1, 2024. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.02
[Article History: Received: 01 December 2023. Revised: 01 February 2024. Accepted: 02 February 2024. Published: 03 February 2024]
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Abstract:

The lands and natural resources of indigenous communities in the Global South have been severely exploited thereby leading to a major decline in the ecosystem, following centuries of colonization.  The research intends to investigate and demonstrate the relevance of indigenous cultural epistemologies and traditional performances, in challenging and reversing the ecological degradation brought about by colonialism in Nigeria. Relying on the postcolonial, and environmental justice theoretical frameworks, an examination of the literature and case study centred on the indigenous populations in Ogoniland in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria will be deployed. Through an exploration of the traditional performances of the Ogoni people, which are deeply rooted in their indigenous cultural epistemologies, encompassing their customary knowledge structures, rituals, and worldviews, this study aims to illuminate the deep ecological understanding that has supported this Nigerian, Niger Delta community for several generations. Additionally, it aims to acknowledge the vital role that indigenous peoples play in maintaining a variety of ecosystems as well as their deeply ingrained spiritual and cultural ties to the natural world. The study examines creative practices and effective eco-restorative projects led by the indigenous people of Ogoniland that defy the colonial-era models of resource extraction and industrial development. The research intends to contribute to the current global conversation on decolonization, environmental stewardship, and the importance of inclusive and diverse viewpoints in sustainable development. The research concludes that indigenous cultural epistemologies and traditional performances provide vital resources for engaging the ecological issues that Ogoniland and other locations in Nigeria for that matter, face by elevating the voices and knowledge of indigenous peoples.

Keywords: Indigenous cultural epistemologies, colonialism, ecological degradation, Global South, Ogoniland, Nigeria, environmental stewardship, decolonization, inclusive perspectives.

Sustainable Development Goals: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, Life on Land

Citation: Ohenhen, S.T. & Abakporo, P. C. (2024). Resisting Eco-colonialism Through Indigenous Epistemologies and Performances in Nigeria. Rupkatha Journal 16:1. https://doi.org/10.21659/rupkatha.v16n1.02 

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