Jamshedpur: Day 3 of Samvaad 2025 unfolded with narratives of collaboration, leadership and community-driven governance systems as tribal changemakers from across the country gathered to build further on the discussions which opened up on November 15.
The morning began with contemplative sessions spanning elements such as Art and Handicrafts which focused on understanding the nuances of the trade. The participants at Tribal Healing Practices shared insights on traditional diagnostic approaches. Akhra reflected on indigenous social governance systems and their alignment to mainstream development goals. Samuday ke Saath brought forward stories designed to inspire budding film-makers, uplift and provoke new ways of thinking.
In a significant development, Tata Steel Foundation and The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This was signed in the presence of Sourav Roy, Chief Executive Officer, Tata Steel Foundation and Sireesha Chandana, VP, IHCL. The MoU renewed partnership aims to strengthen and scale ongoing efforts to promote and mainstream India’s diverse tribal cuisines. Since the collaboration began in 2017, Tribal Cuisines has engaged 440 tribal home cooks representing 52 tribes across 21 regions. The expanded partnership will focus on three core areas—Capacity Building and Skill Development, Mainstreaming Tribal Cuisine and Culinary Storytelling and Documentation. It seeks to both preserve the richness of India’s tribal food traditions and support sustainable livelihood opportunities by co-creating authentic, rooted gastronomic experiences in partnership with tribal communities.
: “Samvaad has once again reminded us that progress comes from learning from the lived wisdom of our tribal communities. Today’s conversations, rooted in healing traditions, art, governance and food, have shown us how collaboration can open new pathways for shared growth. Our renewed partnership with IHCL is another step in this journey. By enabling tribal cooks to bring their culinary skills to wider audiences, we hope to strengthen the livelihoods and dignity of the home cooks who carry this heritage forward within their communities.”
The day also came alive with captivating cultural performances by the Ho, Garo, Kuki and Kandhan tribes. Visitors swayed to the vibrant musical energy of Summersalt band from the Khasi Hills, along with soulful performances by Garima Ekka and Arjun Lakra.
Crowds continued to gather at Aatithya, the tribal food pop-up, offering indigenous preparations and long-forgotten flavours. The Art & Handicrafts and Traditional Healing outlets at Gopal Maidan also drew widespread appreciation for their diversity and authenticity. The food pop-up will remain open daily from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm, with cuisines also available for order on Zomato.
Samvaad 2025 will continue over the next two days, bringing together thousands to celebrate cultural identity, collective wisdom and the enduring spirit of India’s indigenous communities.
Samvaad 2025, tribal communities, Tata Steel Foundation, IHCL partnership, tribal cuisine, indigenous culture, community leadership, tribal governance, traditional healing, Art and Handicrafts, Akhra sessions, tribal food pop-up, Gopal Maidan, collaborative development, cultural performances, tribal musicians, Summersalt band, skill development, culinary storytelling, sustainable livelihoods