Once celebrated for bringing joy and entertainment to people’s homes, today they have been pushed to the margins of mainstream society... Who are these Makadwale?
This is the heartbreaking yet inspiring story of the struggles, hardships, and dreams of the Kunchikorvi community, one of Maharashtra’s nomadic and denotified communities. The journey of Balu, Mangya (the monkey), and their family offers a glimpse into a world where even the dream of having a home of their own seems like a distant fantasy.
Key Highlights of the Book:
A Saga of Struggle: The legacy of unjust laws from the British era and the unresolved challenges that continue to plague the community even after independence.
The Crisis of a Traditional Livelihood: Following the implementation of wildlife protection laws, the community, which once earned its livelihood by performing monkey shows, was pushed towards the brink of starvation.
Humanity and Nature: The unbreakable friendship and emotional bond between Balu and his companion, Mangya, transcend the boundaries of conventional human relationships.
The Aspiration for Education: Despite a life of constant wandering, Balu nurtures the dream of receiving an education and remains determined to live with dignity and respect in society.
Shadow on the Road ( Translation of the Marathi Novel Rastyachya Palikadche Ghar by Nityanand Sumant Bhadra) is not merely the story of a Kunchikorvi family; it is also a small but significant struggle against social exclusion. This story will take you into the makeshift settlements of nomadic communities, connect you with their daily struggles for survival, and undoubtedly change the way you perceive a large section of society that the mainstream has conveniently chosen to ignore.
A Silent, Heart-Wrenching Cry... One That Everyone Must Hear!