THE BANJARA EDUCATION PACK

Ambassador C. Iyer at the launch of the Banjara Education Pack "This is an education pack which introduces the Banjara. Originally a nomadic gypsy tribe from India, this community have held strongly to their cultural bonds and traditions whilst demonstrating an unusual ability to develop socially, economically and politically." Through introducing the Banjara community, this pack provides new ideas for creative education for teachers and those working with minority and culturally diverse groups. It also encourages exploration and respect for difference within the mainstream. School class at Ilac Centre Library exhibition, Dublin, Ireland. "I am proud to say that one elderly Banjara once told me that I am a ‘nomadic Banjara at heart’." "The Banjaras are an inspiring community who have a great deal to teach us about tradition, culture, the arts and how to interact with others. Through this pack I hope I have passed on some of the information and inspiration that was so generously shared with me by the many Banjaras and their friends who I met in the course of my work, travels and research." Irish school girls in Banjara dress. Irish teacher training student in Banjara dress. Irish travellers in Banjara dress. Banjara Family. The pack is not an extensive study of the Banjaras. There are many fascinating and often controversial topics related to the community that I have not been able to include. However, the aim is that this material opens a window on to a nomadic life style that has changed and adapted under the pressures of modernisation, whilst at the same time retaining a pride and observance of cultural traditions. Banjara woman in traditional jewellery & dress. Banjara woman in traditional jewellery & dress. Regards' sue Bullogh khahre