Janjatiya Gaurav Divas: Celebrating Tribal Heritage

JANJATIYA GAURAV DIVAS CELEBRATES INDIA’S TRIBAL HERITAGE

WHY IN THE NEWS ?

• The Consulate General of India in Dubai celebrated Janjatiya Gaurav Divas through a special programme involving around 100 students from 20 CBSE schools across Dubai and the Northern Emirates of the UAE.
• The event highlighted tribal communities’ contributions to India’s freedom struggle, history and cultural heritage through student activities and a traditional art workshop.

CELEBRATION OF TRIBAL HERITAGE IN DUBAI:

• Cultural Commemoration: The Indian Consulate in Dubai organised the programme to recognise the historical, cultural and national contributions of India’s tribal communities.
• Student Participation: Approximately 100 students from 20 CBSE schools across Dubai and the Northern Emirates participated in the celebration.
• Freedom Fighters: Students took part in a speech competition highlighting the contributions of tribal freedom fighters through presentations and traditional attire.
• Sohrai Art Workshop: A practical workshop introduced students to Sohrai Art, a traditional tribal wall-painting practice associated with Jharkhand.
• Artistic Guidance: Six artists from UMSS Fine Arts and Fashion Academy, Abu Dhabi, under the banner of Kalashakthi, guided students in exploring this traditional art form.

SOHRAI ART AND IMPORTANCE OF TRIBAL CULTURAL PRESERVATION

• Traditional Practice: Sohrai is a ritualistic wall-painting tradition practised by tribal communities, particularly in Jharkhand.
• Artistic Medium: It is generally created on mud walls, with women playing a significant role in its practice.
• Cultural Significance: The paintings are traditionally associated with harvest celebrations and festive occasions, reflecting the close relationship between tribal communities and nature.
• Cultural Transmission: Workshops and educational activities help younger generations understand and appreciate traditional art forms and indigenous knowledge.
• Global Outreach: Celebrations organised by Indian diplomatic missions abroad promote awareness of India’s tribal heritage among the Indian diaspora and international communities.