Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram Commemorative Event Honours Tribal Legacy and Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas
New Delhi: Dakshini Vibhag and R. K. Puram Vibhag of Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, Delhi collaboratively organized a commemorative event celebrating ‘Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas’ and ‘Bhagwan Birsa Munda Jayanti’. The venue, GLT at Saraswati Bal Mandir Senior Secondary School, New Delhi resonated with the presence of esteemed guests. Shri Anil Verma, Administrative Officer of the Delhi Government graced the occasion as the chief guest, while former corporation councilor and renowned social worker Shri Ramesh Pehalwan presided over the event. Keynote speaker Shri Tilak Chandna ji, Vice President of Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, Delhi State added depth to the program with his insightful address. Dr. Neetu Moni Kakati, Delhi State Executive Member also shared the stage, and Mr. Sunil Verma, Dakshin Vibhag Secretary, introduced the distinguished guests. The event was a vibrant amalgamation of cultural presentations and soulful solo performances.
The stage hosted numerous esteemed guests, and an enlightening exhibition showcasing documentaries on Bhagwan Birsa Munda and other tribal revolutionaries added depth to the event. Dr. Deepak Kujur adeptly moderated the proceedings, commencing with the distinguished guests lighting the ceremonial lamp and reciting mantras, accompanied by captivating cultural presentations. Dr. Seema and Dr. Mekhala delivered a mesmerizing group song, while Vinod Bohra stirred patriotic fervour with a song honouring forest dweller heroes. The stage came alive with vibrant folk dances; Yatika Sharma from Delhi University presented Odisha’s folk dance, and Glory Sakia showcased Assam’s traditional dance. The event was further embellished by the soulful folk song performance from Chirag and his group, Delhi University students hailing from Darjeeling.
Several distinguished guests graced the stage, adding significance to the event. The keynote speaker, Tilak Chandna eloquently elucidated the nuanced difference between forest dwellers and tribes. He highlighted the historical misconception from the British rule that erroneously equated these terms. Chandna emphasized that tribals are the indigenous inhabitants of India and shed light on their illustrious history across ancient, medieval, and modern eras. His address debunked misconceptions, offering a profound understanding of the distinct identities and rich heritage of these communities.
The program’s chairperson expressed gratitude to the event’s organizers and stressed the importance of societal responsibility, emphasizing the significance of maintaining connections with one’s village community. Highlighting the fundamental connection each person has with their roots, especially their village; he lauded attendees from diverse Indian villages. The chief guest commended the successful execution of the program, acknowledging everyone’s efforts. Dr. Sumit Dahiya, Surjeet, Dr. Archana, Dr. Angela, Dr. Seema, Dr. Mekhla, Dr. Vinod, and Badarpur District President Mr. Man Mohan honored special guests by presenting them with a patka and a tribal pride book. Dr. Nitin, Joint Secretary of Dakshin Vibhag, expressed gratitude to all contributors for the program’s success. The event concluded with a spirited rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’ performed by Shri Narendra Singh, Prachar Pramukh of RK Puram Vibhag. The entire program’s success was credited to the guidance of CA Kailash Joshi, provincial co-secretary of Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram.