Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 04 February 2025
A delegation of 28 pilgrims from the Chota Nagpuri Ranchi community of Andaman and Nicobar Islands has left to participate in the ongoing Janjati Mahakumbh at Prayagraj. The pilgrimage is being facilitated by the Akhil Bharatiya Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram (ABVKA), a national organization dedicated to the welfare of tribal communities across India.
The Andaman and Nicobar pilgrims will be part of a grand gathering of over 25,000 tribal delegates from February 6 to 10, 2025, at the Janjati Mahakumbh in Prayagraj — the world’s largest tribal congregation.
ABVKA’s Mission to Preserve Tribal Heritage
ABVKA has been at the forefront of efforts to protect the ancient customs, values, culture, and traditions of India’s tribal communities. The organization works with over 12 crore tribal people across the country, conducting service-oriented activities and cultural preservation programs. For several years, ABVKA has ensured the active participation of tribal communities in various Kumbh festivals, fostering pride in their heritage and traditions.
Highlights of Janjati Mahakumbh 2025:
The Mahakumbh will feature a variety of events celebrating tribal culture and heritage:
- Yuva Kumbh (February 6-7): More than 10,000 tribal youths from across India will participate in this grand cultural celebration. Twenty talented tribal youths will also be honored for their contributions and achievements.
- Grand Procession and Traditional Dance (February 7): A colorful procession featuring 150 dance troupes from different tribal communities will take place. Delegates, dressed in traditional attire, will participate in a ritualistic holy bath in the Ganges. The theme of the procession is “Tu – Main Ek Rakta” (You and I are One Blood), symbolizing unity and harmony among tribes. Cultural performances will be held on four different platforms from February 7 to 9.
- Conference of Saints (February 10): Renowned saints and revered figures from tribal communities will present their views on tribal customs, culture, faith, and traditions. Notable saints such as Mahamandaleshwar Yatindranand Giri Ji Maharaj, Swami Avadheshanand Giri Ji, and Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Raghunath Maharaj will inspire and address the gathering.
This year’s Janjati Mahakumbh is especially significant as it coincides with the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, a revered tribal freedom fighter and youth icon. Volunteers from Seva Samarpan Sansthan, affiliated with ABVKA, have dedicated themselves to making this event a grand success in honor of his legacy.