'Tribal waves' on FM radio

Unlike the other popular FM radio RJs, he may not sound cool and hip. But Ajaykumar, 24, the RJ-cum-announcer-cum-programme producer at Radio Mattoli (90.4 FM), a community radio service based in Mananthavady, is least concerned about his lingo. For, he is on a virtuous mission!

The Adiya community member, one of the largest indigenous tribal communities in Wayanad, is striving hard to rekindle hope among scores of tribals in the district who live in utter misery, despite having various welfare schemes launched by both state and central governments.

“The best way to reach out to the indigenous groups scattered across the district is through a medium that is accessible to them. And this FM station gives them an opportunity to speak out and be heard,” says Ajay who joined Radio Mattoli in 2009.

The eldest of four sons of daily-wage labourers Jayaprakash and Janu, Ajay is in-charge of the two exclusive tribal-programmes aired by the FM station, namely Thudichatham (The rhythm of Thudy, a small percussion instrument) and Mazhathullikal (Droplets of rain).

“Thudichatham deals with various topics, such as education, health and issues confronted by the tribal community. We try to keep our listeners engaged by blending education and entertainment. Through Mazhathullikal, people share their rain-related memories and unique experiences. Both the programmes have received overwhelming response from our listeners,” says Ajay, who is also the joint secretary of the Kerala Adivasi Forum.

According to Ajay, tribals can enter the mainstream while preserving their distinct social, cultural and political beliefs if there are well-defined educational programmes.

He has scripted and directed three short films Snehasanthi, Black Soil and Janaalaykkappuram.

“At present I’m working on a script named Vella which tells the story of a tribal girl who is caught in a strife-torn region. I hope somebody comes forward to make a movie out of it,” he adds.