Oral history meet concludes with call to become voice of voiceless
The meet delved upon the theme ‘Coastal Histories: Stories of Resistance and Resilience.'
The meet delved upon the theme ‘Coastal Histories: Stories of Resistance and Resilience.'
The meet delved upon the theme ‘Coastal Histories: Stories of Resistance and Resilience.'
Kochi: The 10th National Oral History Conference has concluded in Kochi with an appeal to historians to become the voice of the voiceless. The meet delved upon the theme ‘Coastal Histories: Stories of Resistance and Resilience’ with experts highlighting the importance of oral history as an emerging branch of study. The meet, organised by the Oral History Association of India (OHAI), was hosted by the Madhavan Nayar Foundation at Kerala Museum, Edappally.
History should become a powerful tool to democratise the past, breaking away from the classical, top-down narratives of history, said Vrunda Pathare, president of OHAI. She was delivering her inaugural lecture of the conference at the meet chaired by museum director Aditi Nayar Zacharias.
According to Vrunda, capturing the voices of individuals, communities, and lived experiences of marginalized people, oral and micro histories adds depth to our understanding of the past, emphasising a pluralistic, collective memory that values diverse perspectives and narratives. “Resultantly, it fosters a richer, more inclusive historical consciousness which preserves and celebrates the multiplicity of voices that shape the democratic fabric of our society,” she added.
"In the West, oral history has been a discipline for some time now. In India we have not explored its full scope yet. But the future of oral history is both promising and dynamic. With advancements in digital technology, the scope for recording, preserving, and sharing oral histories is expanding, making it more accessible and engaging,” she said.
Environmental historian Prof Sebastian Joseph highlighted Kerala Museum's role in integrating personal and collective memories within the broader framework of museumisation.
Prof Ankit Alam moderated the academic sessions in which nine academic papers were presented. A total of 35 papers were presented at the meet. Dr K G Sreeja delivered a key-note speech under the museum’s Janal talk series on tidal waves affecting coastal lives.