commemorates 25th Statehood Day of Jharkhand and 150th birth anniversary of Dharti Aba Birsa Munda~
Jamshedpur: Samvaad 2025 began with warmth, colour and a deep sense of pride in India’s tribal heritage. This year, Samvaad also marks 25 years of Jharkhand Statehood Day and the 150th birth anniversary of Dharti Aaba Birsa Munda, the great tribal leader and freedom fighter.
The event began with the opening prayers performed by the Ho, Munda, Santhal and Oraon tribes. A traditional cleansing of the Akhra was conducted as per the rituals of the Ho tribe, symbolizing purity and unity. Children from the programmes supported by Tata steel Foundation, who have brought pride to the nation through their achievements in sports, warmly welcomed elders from tribal communities into the Akhra. Jawa saplings were ceremoniously handed over to the elders, and the children unveiled these symbols of growth and prosperity. The announcement of the opening of the Samvaad Conclave 2025 was marked by the resonant sounds of the Bhner, Sakua, and Nagada, the traditional tribal instruments, adding a powerful touch to the inaugural ceremony.
The inauguration was graced by respected tribal leaders and changemakers including Baiju Murmu, Desh Pargana from the Santhal community; Dashmath Hansdah, Torop Pargana, Santhal; Ganesh Pat Pingua, Pir Manki from the Ho community; and Uttam Singh Sardar, Pradhan of the Bhumij community. Padma Shri awardees Chami Murmu and Janum Singh Soy graced the occasion with their inspiring presence, alongside Dr. Narayan Oraon, the inventor of Tolong Siki, and Niyaren Herenj, Pahan. Also present were senior leaders from Tata Steel Foundation — T. V. Narendran, Chairman, Tata Steel Foundation and D B Sundara Ramam, Director, Tata Steel Foundation.
Sourav Roy, CEO, Tata Steel Foundation, said: “Samvaad has stood as a testament to the wisdom, resilience and cultural richness of the tribal communities. As we usher the 12th edition, we are humbled to welcome the tribal elders, youth and communities who have carried their knowledge with dignity across generations. Their stories and wisdom inspire us as we come together to learn, share and honour the importance of tribal heritage. Samvaad belongs to the communities and we are grateful to support this meaningful dialogue that connects generations and cultures, working towards a more inclusive and sustainable future.”
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The morning was dedicated towards contemplation among participants of Tribal Cuisine on culinary evolution and outcome of tribal cooking practices. Samvaad Fellowship began with a dialogue on fundamentals of project management and tribal traditions, system and rituals. Samuday ke Saath engaged filmmakers in collective conversation on tribal cinema.
This year Aatithya, the flagship cuisine outlet of Samvaad, brought together 19 home cooks representing 12 tribes. They presented signature tribal dishes through food stalls that opened up at 3p.m. at Gopal Maidan. This will remain open each day between 3:00 pm – 9:00 pm and tribal cuisines will also be available for order on Zomato.
A vibrant cultural showcase of Art and Handicraft featuring 34 unique tribal art forms from 18 states and 30 tribes, highlighted the richness of India’s tribal heritage through home decor, paintings, textiles, jewellery and more, through 51 outlets at Gopal Maidan.
Tribal healers from 24 tribes across 12 states showcased their tribal healing practices through 30 outlets at the Gopal Maidan. The specialty this year includes lifestyle diseases, chiropractic care, infertility treatment and more.
Samvaad 2025 will continue through the week, bringing together tribal communities, artists, healers and changemakers from across the country to celebrate and learn from one another.
