The Uttar Pradesh government has launched a vibrant week-long celebration honoring tribal communities and commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of legendary tribal freedom fighter Birsa Munda. The Janjatiya Bhagidari Utsav, running from November 13 to 18 in Lucknow, brings together diverse tribal cultures from across India and beyond.
A Festival of Tribal Diversity and Heritage
This grand celebration features numerous stalls displaying traditional crafts, authentic textiles, indigenous artwork, and tribal cuisine. Arunachal Pradesh serves as the partner state for this year's event, adding unique cultural elements from Northeast India.
One of the major attractions is an extraordinary exhibition of masks representing various tribes from India and international communities including Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, and Fiji. A government spokesperson emphasized that tribal artists are being honored for their significant contributions to preserving cultural traditions.
Special Events and Political Participation
The festival schedule includes a special theatrical performance titled 'Dharti Aaba' on November 17, based on the life and struggles of Birsa Munda. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will participate in a mega celebration in Sonbhadra on Saturday, highlighting the government's focus on tribal communities.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently accused the Congress party of neglecting tribal communities, stating they had "abandoned tribals to their fate," adding political significance to the celebrations.
Cultural Exchange and Integration Efforts
Atul Dwivedi, director of the Institute of Folk and Tribal Culture, explained that the festival aims to introduce the rich cultural identity of tribal communities to the wider public and encourage their integration into mainstream society.
Tribal communities from multiple districts including Lakhimpur Kheri, Bahraich, Shravasti, Gonda, Jhansi, and Lalitpur are actively participating in the celebrations. In a significant cultural exchange initiative, a team from Uttar Pradesh will also participate in an event scheduled in Arunachal Pradesh from November 15.
Dwivedi noted that the Dhurva tribe of Odisha is participating in the event for the first time this year, expanding the festival's reach and diversity. This inclusive approach demonstrates the growing recognition of tribal contributions to India's cultural tapestry.
