From Forests to Frontlines: Migration, Cultural Identity, and Work Empowerment among Lambada Women in Contemporary Hyderabad

From Forests to Frontlines: Migration, Cultural Identity, and Work Empowerment among Lambada Women in Contemporary Hyderabad Abstract: The modern socio-economic scenario of India is undergoing a tremendous change with rising internal migration within Lambada communities, particularly Lambada women. This paper discusses the intricate nexus between migration, cultural identity, and work empowerment among Lambada women who transition from forest-based, traditional occupations to urban and semi-urban job markets. Applying a descriptive research approach, the study discusses how these shifts affect their cultural practices, social status, and economic independence. While migration promotes opportunities for income earning, education, and broader visibility, it also generates issues of identity erosion, exploitation in the informal economy, and psychological dislocation. The study calls for a balancing act between development and cultural retention, supporting inclusive policies that give power to Lambada women through skill empowerment, legal protection, and culturally appropriate integration processes. Finally, this research contributes to gendered migration literature with the emphasis on the resilience of Lambada women as they go through the trials of mass migration, identity, and empowerment in contemporary Hyderabad.