Gnanmata Sadan Papers

The Gnanmata Sadan (Talasari Mission) began in 1934 through the efforts of a few Franciscan Brothers who initiated education among Adivasi communities by opening temporary tent schools. Despite challenges from moneylenders, and challenges owing to poverty and illness, they laid the foundation for what would become a significant educational movement. Later, the Jesuits of the Bombay Province were invited to the area and asked to take over the mission from the Brothers. Jesuits systematized the work, obtaining government recognition and appointing trained teachers. In addition to educational outreach, the mission undertook important social and health initiatives. As part of its community development work, the mission began training ‘vaidus’, traditional Adivasi healers. Gnanmata Sadan started documenting their methods of preparing herbal medicines for various diseases. This knowledge-sharing effort was implemented through a series of herbal medicine camps, where indigenous practices were preserved and integrated with broader health education efforts of the Trust. Gnanamata Sadan runs a network of schools for the growth and development of Adivasis of the area. They have pioneered educational and communication methods which are rooted in the tradition and culture of the Adivasis of the area.