It was early morning when I reached shepherds temporary shepherds’ camp near Pothamsettipally in Medak district, Telangana where I met Golla community shepherds, a pastoral community traditionally dependent on goat and sheep rearing. The sun had just begun to rise, and the environment was very calm and peaceful. Sheep slowly gathered in the open field while the shepherds were already awake. The shepherds were already awake. For them, the day started much earlier.

Some were packing their belongings, while others counting sheep and lambs. Two men sat together repairing ropes and arranging small bags of grain meant for the journey. The surroundings were quiet, but there was a constant sense of movement. Mobility is a regular part of their lives.

The Golla community, traditionally dependent on sheep and goat rearing. Every year they migrate with their flocks in search of grazing land and water. Their migration routes usually pass through different districts of Telangana and sometimes across the states like Karnataka and Maharashtra, depending on the availability of pasture.

During the day, the flock moves slowly across open lands and post harvested fields. Shepherds walk alongside with flock, guiding and protecting the flock. Children take care of newborn lambs, carrying them when needed. Their temporary shelter was simple. They had spread a plastic sheet on the ground to sit and sleep on, and their camp was set up under the open sky. 

An elderly shepherd told me, “The land changes, but this life continues.” Another young shepherd, Raju, shared, if we stay in one place, the flocks will not get enough fodders and water. “Moving is part of our life.”

This short experience gave me a glimpse of the everyday life of migratory shepherds and deep ecological knowledge, and a strong bond between humans, animals, and land. For these shepherds, livestock is not just an asset, it is their survival, identity, and future.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author/s. They do not necessarily reflect the positions, policies, or perspectives of FAIR and of any individuals associated with POV.

Sushanth Kumar is pursuing M.A Development at Azim Premji University, Bengaluru. He is interested in pastoral communities, migration, and livelihoods, and has documented lived experiences through fieldwork, capturing the relationship between people, animals, and changing landscapes.