Raipur// Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai attended the traditional Sarhul festival held at Deepu Bagicha in Jashpur. On the occasion, he performed rituals to worship Mother Earth, the Sun God, and the Sal tree, praying for the state’s prosperity, good rainfall, and a bountiful harvest. As part of the traditional ritual, the Baiga priest placed a Sal flower in the Chief Minister’s ear as a mark of blessings.

Extending greetings on Sarhul and the Hindu New Year, Chief Minister Shri Sai performed rituals worshipping Mother Earth, the Sun and the Sal tree, he prayed for prosperity, good rainfall, and a bountiful harvest. 

“The festival symbolizes harmony with nature and reflects the rich traditions and values of tribal society. The rituals performed by Baiga, Pahan, and priests are expressions of gratitude towards nature and collective social values. The festival is a living symbol of the rich civilization and culture of tribal society,” said Shri Sai. 

The Chief Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to preserving tribal culture and highlighted key welfare measures, including housing under PM Awas Yojana, financial support of more than Rs 16,000 crore has been disbursed in 25 installments to women through Mahtari Vandan Yojana, and paddy procurement at Rs 3,100 per quintal for farmers.

He also said the proposed Freedom of Religion Bill aims to promote social harmony and curb illegal conversions.

Notably, Sarhul, celebrated in the month of Chaitra, is a major festival of the Oraon community and symbolizes nature’s renewal and seasonal change. At the sacred Sarna site, rituals are performed in the traditional manner, along with distribution of offerings and folk dance and music, strengthening social unity and cultural identity. 

During the event, a group of more than 100 women and young girls in traditional attire presented an attractive Sarhul dance. The rhythmic beats of the ‘mandar’ drum and the vibrant atmosphere filled the entire venue with tribal cultural fervour, drawing a large crowd and taking the celebrations to their peak.

On the occasion, several dignitaries including Shri Satyendra Singh, National President of Akhil Bharatiya Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram and Shri Yogesh Bapat, National General Secretary appreciated the rituals ceremony and spirit to conserve nature.   

While other dignitaries who marked their presence includes Smt. Gomti Sai, MLA; Shri Arvind Bhagat, Municipal Chairman; Shri Shaurya Pratap Singh Judeo, District Panchayat Vice-Chairman; along with other public representatives, administrative officials, and a large number of citizens were present.

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