Madhumala Chattopadhyay: An Anthropology Luminary

In the realm of isolated tribes, Madhumala Chattopadhyay stands as a beacon of bravery. At the age of twelve, inspired by an article about the Onge tribe, she embarked on a journey that would lead her to make peaceful contact with the elusive Sentinelese Tribe.

Madhumala Chattopadhyay Befriending the Sentinelese Tribe | Source: The Logical Indian

The story begins with the dreams of a young girl named Madhumala Chattopadhyay, who, at the tender age of twelve, envisioned a future where she could meet indigenous tribal people. Born on 16 March 1961, in the suburbs of Kolkata, India, Madhumala spent much of her childhood with her father, who worked as an accounts officer in the south-eastern railways.

Her curiosity was sparked by an article in a local Bengali newspaper featuring a child from the Onge tribe in the Andaman Islands. This article, detailing the significance of a child's birth among the Onge tribals, intrigued her, leading her to express her desire to visit the island. However, civilians were strictly prohibited from visiting these isolated islands due to safety concerns, and only professionals were permitted.

Undeterred, Madhumala Chattopadhyay decided to pursue a profession that would allow her to meet indigenous tribal people. She chose the rare subject of Anthropology, embarking on a journey that started with a Bachelor of Sciences in Anthropology from the University of Calcutta.

Madhumala applied for a PhD with the Anthropological Survey of India (ASI), focusing on tribes in the Andaman Islands. Her work primarily involved field research and writing papers on indigenous tribes. Despite initial hesitation from higher officials due to safety concerns for a female in the secluded islands, she obtained permission with the condition that her parents sign a contract acknowledging the potential dangers.

Her parents, supportive of her choices, signed the contract, paving the way for Madhumala's dream to come true. Posted in Port Blair, she conducted national research and came into contact with various tribes, including the Onge, Jarawa, Shompen, Great Andamanese, Nicobarese, and the Sentinelese Tribe.

Madhumala Chattopadhyay with the Jarawa Tribals | Source: The Print

While some tribes were friendly, contacting the Sentinelese Tribe posed a significant challenge. Despite warnings of danger, Madhumala's passion and determination led her to approach the tribe, employing a strategy of throwing coconuts on the seashore to observe their behaviour from a distance.

This daring expedition marked the first peaceful contact with the Sentinelese Tribe, breaking new ground for anthropological exploration. Her successful rapport-building with the Sentinelese Tribe stands as a testament to her passion and determination.

Madhumala Chattopadhyay after returning from her expedition said, "They are not uncivilised. They understand nature better than us. Don't forget, they knew a tsunami was coming and moved to higher grounds. They follow animism, worship and love nature, something 'civilised' people don't."

In her six years of research on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Madhumala Chattopadhyay overcame challenges, building connections with various tribes. Her story inspires young girls to pursue unconventional dreams, showcasing the extraordinary achievements possible when passion meets dedication. Madhumala Chattopadhyay is a true inspiration for those aspiring to achieve seemingly impossible dreams.