Dilip Guha, New Delhi: The Aadi Mahotsav 2024, an annual national tribal festival, was inaugurated by President Smt Droupadi Murmu at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi today February 10, 2024.
Tribal Co-operative Marketing Development Federation of India limited (TRIFED) is organizing the event under the aegis of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and will run from February 10 to February 18, 2024.
This festival aims to showcase India’s diverse tribal heritage, and its organization underscores the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting the country’s indigenous cultures. The festival will serve as a platform for tribal artisans, performers, and entrepreneurs to showcase their skills, promote their products, and network with potential buyers and investors.
The President said that modernity has damaged nature. Tribal communities have been living in harmony with nature for centuries. We should take inspiration from their lifestyle, especially as the world faces global warming.
President Droupadi Murmu expressed that the tribal lifestyle could provide a solution to the global issue of climate change.
The President believes that technology has made our lives easier and it’s unfair to deprive the tribal community of its benefits. Their contribution is important and should be utilised for sustainable development. Murmu said tribal people could benefit from new technology, which should be used for sustainable development. She urged for collective efforts to preserve their traditional knowledge.
The President emphasized the importance of preserving traditional knowledge, which is in danger of extinction due to the disappearance of many traditional skills. This knowledge is as valuable as many species of flora and fauna that are becoming extinct. Our efforts should focus on preserving and utilising this valuable resource to meet the needs of today. Technology can play a vital role in achieving this goal.
Murmu highlighted the importance of learning from tribal communities about living in harmony with nature, particularly when the need for modernisation has resulted in significant damage to the Earth and its natural resources.
The President appreciated the launch of the Venture Capital Fund for Scheduled Tribes (VCF-ST) and urged the tribal youth to take advantage of this scheme to establish new enterprises and contribute to building a self-reliant India.
With around 1,000 artisans participating, visitors will have the opportunity to meet the talented creators behind these tribal creations. The event will also include a separate food court offering tribal cuisines known for their health benefits.
The Aadi Mahotsav 2024 event is a celebration of tribal entrepreneurship, showcasing the incredible talent, culture, cuisine, and commerce of various tribal communities. This event promises to be a vibrant and culturally rich experience. It provides a platform for tribal artisans to exhibit their extraordinary talent and craftsmanship. It also offers an opportunity to interact, learn, and contribute to the empowerment of tribal communities.
The Aadi Mahotsav event showcases over 300 stalls exhibiting Tribal art, handicrafts, natural produce, and delectable tribal cuisine. The event has the following major highlights:
1. Handlooms and Handicrafts: Visitors will be able to explore exquisite handlooms created by tribal artisans from different parts of the country. They will also get a chance to witness and purchase unique handicraft products.
2. Forest Products: The exhibition showcased forest products crafted by seven different Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). These communities presented an array of forest-derived products reflecting their deep connection with nature.
3. Cultural Diversity: Aadi Mahotsav will be a spectacle of rich tribal diversity and vibrancy. Cultural programs will feature traditional dances, music, and performances that encapsulate the spirit of various tribal communities.
4. Tribal Gastronomy: Visitors have the opportunity to delight their taste buds with delicious dishes prepared by tribal people from across the country. They get a chance to savour authentic flavours and specialities.
The Aadi Mahotsav event presents a grand picture of India’s tribal heritage during the Azadi Ka Amirt Mahotsav. It highlights the prestigious tableau of the tribal societies of India and expresses delight at getting the opportunity to witness the various flavours, colours, adornments, traditions, art and art forms, delicacies, and music.