Malkangiri ,18th Oct 2025: Dr. Jatiranjan Gudiya, belonging to the Didayi tribe, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), has become the first person from his community in Malkangiri district to be awarded a Doctorate degree (Ph.D.)—a historic and inspiring achievement.
Born to father Buda and mother Radha, Dr. Gudiya hails from Muduliguda village, under Rasbeda panchayat, in Khairaput block, Malkangiri district, Odisha. Apart from being academically inclined, he has a deep passion for painting.
Since childhood, he witnessed the struggles of his parents and tribal community. Inspired by their resilience, he aspired to rise above and become a voice and representative for his people. He began his primary education at Kudumulugumma, then enrolled in the government high school of his village.
Despite facing poverty and lack of resources, he persisted. From Class 8 to 10, he stayed with Maheswar Maharana Sir, who not only supported his education but also encouraged his artistic talent. Recognizing his potential in fine arts, Maheswar Sir helped him connect with different events and projects, often providing him with materials and opportunities to showcase his work.
In 2012, he passed Class 10 and took the bold step of moving from remote Malkangiri to Bhubaneswar to continue his education — a turning point in his life. From that moment on, there was no looking back.
He remained equally committed to both art and academics. At the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) in Bhubaneswar, he pursued:
- B.A. in Fine Arts,
- M.A. in Political Science,
- Post-Graduation,
- M.Phil, and
- Finally, a Ph.D..
Today, he holds the proud distinction of being the first doctorate holder from the Didayi tribe, a moment of immense pride not only for his family but also for the entire tribal community of Odisha.
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