"It was a wonderful experience interacting with you and appreciate the way you have planned and executed the whole publication process within the agreed timelines.”
Subrat SaurabhAuthor of Kuch Woh Pal
Nagoba Jatara is my heartfelt tribute to one of the oldest and most sacred tribal festivals of India, celebrated by the Mesram clan of the Gond community in Telangana. What began as a documentary journey soon turned into a deeper calling—to visually preserve the rituals, customs, and spiritual spirit of this extraordinary gathering.
Through this book, I’ve tried to capture the essence of a world rarely seen—of ancient chants, ancestral bonds, and a living culture that continues to thrive against all odds. Every photograph, every story is a glimpse into the devotion, dignity, and resilience of the people who welcomed me into their lives with trust and warmth.
This isn’t just a book—it’s a celebration of Indigenous heritage and a promise to pass it on to future generations. A portion of the proceeds will go back to the community, in gratitude for the stories they’ve shared with me.
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Jennifer Alphonse
Jennifer Alphonse is an internationally acclaimed Indian filmmaker, author, and visual storyteller whose work spans a diverse spectrum—from award-winning documentaries and short fiction films to commercial ads, music videos, and socially-driven PSAs. An MBA graduate, she honed her cinematic vision at the prestigious Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune.
Her storytelling is known for its emotional depth, cultural authenticity, and bold subject choices. She made history as the first Asian female filmmaker to shoot a feature film in Afghanistan. Although the film Habeeb was interrupted due to political circumstances, the footage was later transformed into a poignant narrative song. Her acclaimed short film Strangers, inspired by true events, and documentary The Take Over, featuring cinematic legends like Mani Ratnam and Kamal Haasan, both earned international recognition, including selections at the Cannes Short Film Corner and numerous global awards.
Jennifer’s passion for preserving Indigenous cultures led her to document tribal rituals across India and author two coffee table books—Gussadi: Celebration of Being God! and Nagoba Jatara. In 2023, she represented India at the IVLP (International Visitor Leadership Program), hosted by the U.S. State Department, engaging in global conversations on human rights and cultural advocacy.
