300 tableaus with myraid social messages mark grand Sarhul processions in Ranchi

Ranchi: City celebrated the festival of nature "Sarhul" with approximately 300 tableaus showcasing tribal traditions in a colourful procession. Various committees participated in the event, which began across the city and concluded at the central Sarna Sthal in Siramtoli, featuring a display at Albert Ekka Chowk.
At the gathering, former Chief Minister Champai Soren stressed the significance of maintaining tribal traditions and called upon the community to protect their cultural heritage. AJSU's Central President, Sudesh Mahto, conveyed his festival greetings and joined the celebrations.
Speaking to TOI, Bablu Munda, president of Chadri Sarna Samiti, discussed the tableaus' importance. Munda stated, "Different committees have created different tableaux to express their messages related to nature, symbolizing the invaluable treasures we have received from it. The committees have been preparing for the past fifteen days to deliver a meaningful message to the people."
The presentations incorporated various themes, including corruption, environmental elements like earth, water, and forests, and opposition to flyover construction. Children wearing traditional tribal clothing performed dances to nature-themed songs, demonstrating their connection with the environment.
A member of Vir Birsa Munda Mahasamiti, Chiroundi took out a tableau of Siramtoli flyover to register their protest against the ramp, which allegedly threatens their Sarna Sthal. For many weeks, a section of tribals are protesting to force govt to amend the flyover plan by removing ramp near their place of prayer.
"We are against the govt's plan to construct the flyover at Siramtoli which is threatening our Sarna sthal. We aren't against flyover but against the design. Through our tableau, we aim to express our stance on this matter."
A Chadri Sarna Samiti representative highlighted youth participation in the event preparations. The member noted, "For the past fifteen days, youngsters have been working on the tableau to promote our culture and customs. Dressed in red saris and parthans, they proudly represented their tribe. We want both the public and the government to recognize our initiative."
The procession included ancestral exhibitions, with participants wearing traditional clothing and carrying cultural instruments and weapons, displaying tribal community heritage. Anchal Tirkey, a Doranda resident, said, "The Sarhul festival not only served as a celebration of nature but also as a platform for the tribal community to voice their concerns and reinforce their commitment to preserving their traditions."