Jamshedpur, : The final day of Samvaad 2025 brought together diverse tribal voices in a powerful culmination of dialogue, reflection and celebration. As the conclave closed, communities engaged in conversations that underscored the enduring strength of the indigenous tribes and their role in addressing contemporary social and environmental challenges.
The day opened with sessions across elements: Akhra where participants identified the overlap of action and correction; Art and Handicrafts focused on the dynamics of design by exploring the significance of presentation, representation and innovation; the Tribal Healing Practices immersed in the knowledge of tribal wisdom on medicinal properties of food highlighting you are what you eat and Samuday ke Saath celebrated the voices that carry forward the stories of tomorrow.
Tata Steel Foundation also announced the selection of nine Fellows for the Samvaad Fellowship 2025, chosen from an overwhelming 572 applications, representing 122 tribes across 25 states and two Union Territories, including 10 applicants from Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). The Foundation also celebrated the completion of several past Fellowship projects, which have resulted in meaningful, tangible cultural documentation now ready for public release.
An esteemed jury — Dr. Sonam Wangchok (Founder, Himalayan Cultural Heritage Foundation), Meenakshi Munda (Assistant Professor of Anthropology, Kolhan University), Oinam Doren (Founder, Our Village Films), Parmanand Patel (State Co-ordinator, SAMHATI Cell, SCSTRTI Odisha) and Madan Meena (Honorary Director, Adivasi Academy) — steered the selection process with rigor.
Speaking on the occasion, Sourav Roy, Chief Executive Officer, Tata Steel Foundation said: “Since its inception in 2017, the Fellowship has remained committed to supporting community-led efforts to document and preserve endangered indigenous knowledge systems and cultural practices. This year’s cohort continues that mission, with projects spanning language, art, oral traditions, environmental beliefs and craftsmanship that remain at risk of being forgotten. As Samvaad comes to a close today, the dialogues have once again reaffirmed the strength and wisdom within tribal communities. From the insights shared on tribal healing practices to the unique expressions in art and the powerful storytelling in Akhra, Samvaad stands as a gentle reminder that tribal culture is alive, evolving and continues to guide us.”
The evening cultural showcase celebrated the vibrancy of India’s tribal heritage. Performances by the Munda, Kuki, Garo and Kandha tribes brought alive diverse stories, rhythms and traditions. This was followed by electrifying Nagpuri melodies by Garima Ekka and Arjun Lakda.
Visitors continued to crowd Aatithya, the tribal food pop-up, savouring indigenous cuisines curated by home cooks from across regions. The art and handicrafts and traditional healing outlets at Gopal Maidan once again drew admiration for their authenticity and cultural depth.
