Celebrating 20 years of Chembakolli

For many UK primary schools, Chembakolli is probably the most famous village in India and this December sees the start of celebrations to mark 20 years of village life.

Chembakolli, a village in southern India, was reclaimed following an unprecedented march in December 1988 by 10,000 Adivasi (indigenous people) from the Nilgiri Hills. After many years of seeing their forests destroyed, being chased off their land and treated like beggars, the Adivasis joined together to reclaim their tribal rights to live in the forests near the town of Gudalur. The march was a huge success, winning the respect of the government and local people. The Adivasi were able to settle in many villages on the land, including Chembakolli, as well as establish their own school and hospital.

To celebrate this anniversary, ActionAid has launched an interactive online march, enabling teachers and pupils to create their own character and personalised placard before joining the virtual march. Along the march you can find out about local landmarks, including market stalls, the hospital and school, and meet real life people and read their stories.

» Join the march at www.actionaid.org.uk/march.