New Delhi, March 7: Indian President Droupadi Murmu participated in the 9th International Santhal Conference held in Darjeeling, West Bengal, on Saturday.
During the event, the President expressed pride in the Santhal community, highlighting the legacy of their ancestors. She noted that Tilka Manjhi raised the banner of rebellion against exploitation nearly 240 years ago. About 60 years later, brave leaders Sido-Kanhu and Chand-Bhairav, alongside the courageous Phulo-Jhano, led the Santhal Hul in 1855.
President Murmu emphasized that the year 2003 would always be remembered in the history of the Santhal community, as it marked the inclusion of the Santhal language in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. Last year, on the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the Constitution was published in the Santhal language using the Ol Chiki script.
She acknowledged that Pandit Raghunath Murmu created the Ol Chiki script in 1925 and celebrated its centenary recently. His contributions provided a new platform for Santhal speakers to express themselves. He also authored plays such as “Bidhu Chandan,” “Kherwal Veer,” “Dalege Dhan,” and “Sido Kanhu – Santhal Hul,” illuminating literature and social consciousness within the Santhal community. The President encouraged the Santhal people to learn other languages and scripts while remaining connected to their own.
The President noted that tribal communities have preserved their folk music, dance, and traditions for centuries, maintaining a sensitivity to nature that has been passed down through generations. She stressed the importance of imparting lessons on environmental conservation to future generations. Additionally, she highlighted the need for tribal communities to embrace modern development while protecting their cultural heritage. She expressed confidence that the Santhal and other tribal communities would exemplify harmony between progress and nature.
In today’s context, the President underscored the necessity of focusing on education, health, and economic empowerment. She urged tribal youth to advance through education and skill development, while not forgetting their roots. She called for a commitment to preserving language and culture, prioritizing education, and fostering unity and brotherhood in society. This, she believes, will contribute to building a stronger society and a robust India.
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