Around 1.5 lakh people representing more than 550 tribal communities from across the country are expected to participate in a Janjati Sanskritik Samagam at the Red Fort grounds in Delhi on May 24 to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary year of tribal icon Birsa Munda.
The event is being organised by the RSS-linked Janjati Suraksha Manch, which described it as one of the largest tribal gatherings in the national capital since Independence.
Addressing a press conference on Monday, Janjati Suraksha Manch national co-convenor Rajkishor Hansda said the programme aimed to celebrate tribal identity, culture and heritage while promoting social harmony.
“This year marks the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, which is a matter of pride for our tribal society. Therefore, the Janjati Suraksha Manch has decided to organise this programme in the national capital at the historic Red Fort grounds,” Hansda said.
A major highlight of the event will be a series of cultural processions featuring tribal men and women dressed in traditional attire and carrying indigenous musical instruments.
The organisers said the processions would begin from five different locations across Delhi before converging at the Red Fort for the main public gathering.
“These processions will truly be magnificent, historic and divine, featuring traditional musical instruments, cultural performances and traditional dress,” Hansda said.
The organisers also said Union Home Minister Amit Shah had accepted the invitation to attend the public meeting as the chief guest.
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Hansda said the conclave sought to carry forward the ideals of Birsa Munda, who led a tribal resistance movement against British rule and fought to protect tribal faith, identity and culture.
“He struggled to safeguard his religion, culture and the existence of his society. This cultural conclave seeks to carry forward the same spirit and highlight the pride of tribal society and its cultural heritage,” he said.
Former judge and Janjati Suraksha Manch national team member Prakash Uike said the gathering would focus on strengthening unity among tribal communities and fostering social harmony.
“There is no difference between tribal society and others. Forest dwellers, village dwellers and city residents are all one,” Uike said.
He added that the programme would also deliberate on issues related to tribal traditions, faith and cultural practices, while promoting welfare and empowerment initiatives for tribal communities.
According to the organisers, members of nomadic and denotified tribes, as well as vulnerable tribal groups such as the Great Andamanese tribe, are expected to participate in the conclave.
The organisers said around 100 distinguished members from tribal communities, including achievers in sports, education and other fields, would also be honoured during the programme.
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