TFP Bureau, Raipur, November 13, 2024: In an inspiring celebration of tribal pride and heritage, Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai inaugurated the ‘Maati Ke Veer Padyatra’ in Jashpur, marking the start of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas festivities. Addressing a gathering, Dr. Mandaviya called on the youth to play a proactive role in India’s development and social issues. Citing the courage of tribal hero Lord Birsa Munda, Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the youth’s importance in shaping a progressive nation and announced a new sports stadium for Jashpur, a project requested by Chief Minister Sai.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, honoring the contributions of tribal communities, expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for recognizing November 15 as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas in memory of Lord Birsa Munda. He highlighted the resilience of tribal communities in preserving their culture, which he described as an essential part of Sanatan culture, rooted in a love for nature, peace, and harmony. “Whenever tribal culture has faced threats, the community has stood united in its defense, preserving an invaluable heritage,” said the Chief Minister. He added that the development initiatives like the PM-JANMAN scheme and Eklavya schools are crucial steps toward empowering tribal communities.
Chief Minister Sai also addressed the ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure in remote areas, noting that roads, electricity, water, and healthcare are now reaching even the most isolated villages. He emphasized that this expansion marks the near end of Naxalism in the state, as democracy takes root in the remotest areas, allowing tribal communities to participate in building a prosperous Chhattisgarh.
The Janjatiya Gaurav Divas festivities in Raipur will feature a vibrant two-day showcase of tribal culture, including folk performances from northeastern states such as Meghalaya, Mizoram, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim. Artists from these regions arrived in Raipur to a warm welcome and will perform traditional dances, such as Meghalaya’s Wangla-Rungla and Mizoram’s Solakia.
The Wangla-Rungla dance, performed by the Garo tribe of Meghalaya, celebrates the end of the harvest season and honors the deity Misi Saljong. The 20-member team, led by Shri Mansen Momin, traveled from North Curve Hills, 200 km from Shillong, to showcase this cultural ritual. “The Wangla festival is a key celebration for the Garo tribe, giving thanks to the God of fertility for a successful harvest,” Momin explained. This dance, performed by men and women, involves rhythmic drumming and graceful hand movements, symbolizing gratitude to nature.
Also performing is a group from Mizoram, representing the Mara tribe, who will present the Solakia dance. Traditionally, this dance celebrated victory in battle and is now performed on major community occasions. According to team leader Shri Jothmazam, the dance, which originated with the Lakher people, features powerful chanting and rhythmic music played on traditional gongs and cymbals.
In addition to the cultural programs, a grand exhibition at the Purana Nagar Ground in Raipur showcases the lives of tribal heroes, cultural artifacts, and traditional art forms. Janjatiya Gaurav Divas will continue with additional performances, speeches, and celebrations on November 15, providing a platform for the tribal communities of Chhattisgarh and beyond to celebrate their history and contributions.
The event was attended by various dignitaries, including Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Sao, Tribal Welfare Minister Shri Ramvichar Netam, and Finance Minister Shri OP Choudhary, as well as several MPs, MLAs, and representatives from tribal communities.