Juliana Juje Harnodkar.
Founder, AKSSADA | Voice of a Siddi
I am Juliana Juje. Harnodkar, a Siddi and the founder of AKSSADA. Voice of a Siddi is my personal voice and perspective as a Siddi, shaped by the community, culture, people and natural surroundings I grew up with.
Through this space, I want to help people discover and understand the Siddi community beyond what they may already know—our culture, traditions, heritage, everyday lives, challenges and aspirations. I also want to share the places and experiences that have shaped me, from the forests, rivers, villages and wildlife around us to travel, food, culture, nature and everyday life.
I will also use this space to share the work and journey of AKSSADA, including our efforts towards sustainable livelihoods, cultural preservation, environmental initiatives and community development.
Voice of a Siddi is my voice, my perspective and my space to share the things I know, love, experience and continue to discover—while helping others see, understand and appreciate the community and world that have shaped me.
What You’ll Find Here
Siddi culture, heritage and traditions
Stories and experiences from the community
The history and character of the district and surrounding region
Travel and places worth discovering
Local food, traditions and everyday life
Forests, rivers, wildlife and nature
People and communities of the region
Stories, updates and work from AKSSADA
Personal observations, experiences and perspectives
My Work with AKSSADA
As the founder of AKSSADA (All Karnataka Siddi Social & Aspirational Diversification Association), I work towards creating sustainable opportunities for the Siddi community while supporting cultural heritage, community development and environmental initiatives. Through AKSSADA, I am involved in projects and activities that encourage sustainable livelihoods, promote traditional knowledge and skills, support youth and community participation, and create greater visibility for the Siddi community.