A casual morning conversation with one of my old school friends about India's ancient megalithic burial sites led us to a fascinating question: were these merely graves, or the earliest centres of community life and worship? From tribal monoliths in India to Göbekli Tepe in Türkiye, archaeology is reshaping our understanding of how religion, society, and civilisation first emerged.
On 30 June 1855, long before the Revolt of 1857, the Santhals launched one of the earliest organized uprisings against British colonial rule in India. Hool Diwas commemorates their extraordinary struggle for dignity, justice, and the rights to access water, forests, and land. In the present day, we reflect on this lesser-known chapter of courage, which continues to inspire conversations about freedom, cultural identity, and the rights of indigenous peoples.
The Chhotanagpur plateau, home to the Asur tribe, reveals a rich cultural tapestry shaped by ancient metallurgical practices. Once adept at eco-friendly iron smelting, the Asurs, classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group, face declining traditions amid modern industrialisation. Despite cultural erosion and economic challenges, efforts to preserve their heritage are emerging, highlighting the importance of maintaining their unique connection to history and ecology.
Tusu Festival, celebrated in eastern India during the harvest season, reflects agrarian traditions and community spirit. Rooted in folklore, it honors Tusu, a martyred girl, symbolizing resilience and sacrifice. Key elements include Tusu songs, dolls, feasting, and vibrant gatherings, blending tradition with modern values and addressing contemporary issues.
Hidden in the rugged hills of Sidhi, Madhya Pradesh, the prehistoric shrine of Baghor shelters a triangular stone believed to be over 11,000 years old—perhaps the earliest symbol of the Mother Goddess in India. Discovered by archaeologists in the 1970s, it continues to be worshipped today, bridging prehistory and faith in a timeless ode to the divine feminine.
Golden, crispy, and rooted in tradition—Dhuska is more than just a pancake. This Jharkhandi delicacy, made from rice and lentils, carries with it the warmth of rural kitchens, the joy of festivals, and the essence of a culture deeply tied to the land. Join me on a culinary journey into the heart of Jharkhand, where every bite of Dhuska tells a story.
The Bhangaram Devi temple and the Trial of Gods exemplify the Gond people's profound spiritual connection with their deities, showcasing a tradition where divine power is earned through reciprocal trust. This practice reflects the deep intertwining of faith, nature, and community, highlighting the resilience of tribal culture amid changing times and the importance of preserving traditions that emphasize the symbiotic relationship between humans and their environment.
The International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, observed on August 9, raises awareness about indigenous cultures, histories, and contributions. In India, 730 Scheduled Tribes make up approximately 8.6% of the population, with a rich tapestry of cultural diversity. The tribal communities in Jharkhand are known for their rich cultural heritage, facing challenges such as displacement and socio-economic issues, while making significant contributions to environmental conservation and history.
Airports evoke a unique introspection, marked by the transition between known and unknown. While waiting during a layover at Doha, the author reflects on a Warli art mural seen at Indira Gandhi Airport. This ancient art form, practiced by the Warli tribe, symbolizes ancestral memory and nature's sacredness. The mural serves as a cultural ambassador, reminding travelers of enduring stories and the traditions connecting them to India's heritage.
The sacred groves of Jharkhand, known as Sarna or Sarna sthal, are revered sites within Adivasi culture. These forested areas, rich with sal trees, embody the spiritual essence and ecological wisdom of the indigenous tribes. Sarnas serve as temple groves for various tribes, reflecting a blend of tribal and Hindu traditions. These groves are not only cultural and religious sites but also vital hubs of biodiversity, requiring preservation for future generations.
