Mahasweta Devi Memorial

For eminent writer-activist Mahasweta Devi, Gujarat was her second home. Having delivered the second Verrier Elwin Memorial Lecture on the Denotified Tribes (DNTs) in Vadodara in 1998, Mahasweta Devi and G. N. Devy formed the Denotified and Nomadic Tribes Rights Group for the social justice of India’s six crore denotified peoples. The DNT Rights Action Group went on to steer a movement for the cause of these communities. Mahasweta Devi visited the Adivasi Academy on several occasions over the years and became closely attached to the place. Her own belief that communities alone can bring change found resonance in the Academy’s endeavour to bring self-reliance among Adivasis. So firm was her faith that the Adivasi Academy alone can ensure the future of the Adivasis in the country, that Mahasweta Devi desired to be laid to rest at Tejgadh.

In keeping with her wishes, Bhasha Centre has placed her asthi and created a Memorial in her memory. Inspired by her own struggle, the institution continues her legacy of bringing voice to the marginalised through constructive action.

The memorial is designed by Karan Grover and embodies her journey and spirit.