Tunes of a Single String

Author: Kuppe Nagaraja, Translator: Sadananda R

Kuppe Nagaraja’s autobiography is of social importance as it covers the life of a nomadic community. Its uniqueness comes from the fact that the nomadic and semi-nomadic lifestyle is markedly different from that of other communities in the lower socioeconomic strata of society. This autobiography does not glorify the life of its author; it narrates the story of a community through the lens of an individual’s life. It begins as the story of an individual, then becomes the story of a family, and finally transforms into the story of a community. The autobiography grows beyond the traps of self-glorification by providing equal space to all these aspects in a balancedmanner.

– Baraguru Ramachandrappa
Noted Kannada writer, critic and film director

Just as birds migrate to greener pastures, nomadic people move towards regions that have received good rains. Kuppe Nagaraja’s autobiography meaningfully captures their traditions, beliefs, social interactions, and superstitions. This book can also be considered a free gift to social scientists as it provides insights into the life of nomads. It should be noted that it is very difficult to study nomads, as they keep to themselves and often dodge any probing questions.
Moreover, the book provides an answer to all those people who often stand on the footpaths of cities debating the relevance of caste-based reservation in Indian society.

– Krupakara-Senani
The Green Oscar winning wildlife photographers

Also available on