The Chenchu community enjoys an unbreakable bond with the forest, their lush home. But modernity and aggressive development has forced them out of their abode. The Chenchus who migrated to the plains as expatriates, face challenges adjusting to the social, cultural, and political aspects of life there. Thota Shivamma’s family is one such family that migrated from Gorakallu forest to the plains several years ago. Talking to South One, Thota Shivamma sheds light on her story and life in the Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh.
From Gorakallu to Panyam, from Panyam to Kotha Cheruvu
Kotha Cheruvu is an area located about 30 km from the Panyam mandal in Nandyala district. Kotha Cheruvu is not a village but an uninhabited area with a hut and a small Hanuman temple to its name. Thota Shivamma’s family resides here in their hut. Shivamma’s family hails from the forests near Gorakallu in Kurnool district, where the Chenchu community is found in large numbers. However, over time, the government forced the Chenchus out of the forest area due to frequent accusations of thefts and crimes against them. The government later relocated the Chenchus to a particular colony in the Panyam Mandal and offered them employment in poultry farms.
One year after Shivamma’s family arrived at Kotha Cheruvu, a Hanuman temple was constructed by Tirupal Nayak. Shivamma’s family has been looking after the upkeep of the temple ever since. They diligently clean the temple premises and ensure that the plants are regularly watered. In exchange for their services, Tirupal Nayak offers them a monthly supply of rice and groceries. In addition to their temple duties, Shivamma’s family is also engaged in daily wage labour work in the nearby crop fields and vegetable gardens, where they earn not more than Rs. 150 per day. When there is no agricultural work available, Shivamma’s son and daughter-in-law go into the forest to gather honey. They then travel to Panyam town to sell honey at Rs. 200 per kilogramme.
God is there for everything: Shivamma
Shivamma’s hut does not have a proper roof and living there is difficult. Shivamma mentioned that during the rainy season, they cover the house with palm fronds. At night, Shivamma and her family members sleep under the light of an electric pole. When we asked Shivamma how they protect themselves from the threat of snakes and wild animals, she replied that Hanuman protects them in every way. Shivamma goes on to talk about her house in Panyam that had collapsed many years ago. She recalls with disappointment how she had received no help from the government to rebuild her house despite countless requests. Most people turn hopeless about voting due to the poor track record of politicians who fail to fulfil their poll promises and neglect the needs of vulnerable people after coming to power. However, Shivamma says she will continue to vote in every election, even if she does not receive any help from the government.
Except for a house, I don’t seek any help : Shivamma
Shivamma recalled how when they lived in the forests they experienced constant fear of police harassment and chaos. Even though that problem no longer bothers her, the struggle to secure a stable source of income and find a liveable house weighs heavy on her mind. Shivamma humbly expressed that she does not expect anything more than a little assistance to have a home where she can spend the final years of her life in peace.
