Add thelocalreport.in As A Trusted Source
Tapi (Gujarat), Nov 9 (IANS) As part of the nationwide celebrations to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, Gujarat witnessed vibrant celebrations under the “Tribal Pride Year” initiative. At Dolvan in Tapi district, the Tribal Gaurav Yatra was given a grand welcome as dignitaries, community members and cultural groups gathered to honor the legacy of the great tribal leader.
Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghvi led the ceremony along with Tribal Development Minister Naresh Patel and Minister of State for Sports Dr Jairam Gambit. The yatra, which started from Umargam and will conclude at Ekta Nagar on November 13, aims to showcase the unity, culture and contribution of India’s tribal communities.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy CM Sanghvi praised the cultural richness of the tribal society and said, “Despite linguistic and cultural diversity, the heartbeat and sentiments of our tribal communities are one. Their simplicity, hard work and love for the land reflects the true essence of the spirit of India.”
He praised the people of Tapi for preserving traditional languages like Konkani, Gamit, Chaudhary and Dodhiya and described the district as “a living museum of India’s indigenous heritage”.
Sanghvi emphasized that the Tribal Gaurav Yatra is not just an event but a festival of unity and empowerment spanning from South to North Gujarat. “Wherever the Yatra has reached, people have gathered in large numbers to pay homage to Lord Birsa Munda and celebrate tribal pride,” he said.
Expressing his gratitude towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi for kick-starting the celebration of Tribal Pride Year, the Deputy CM announced that the Prime Minister will visit Devmogra on November 15 and participate in the main Tribal Pride Day celebration at Dediapada in Narmada district.
He recalled the heroic legacy of Birsa Munda, who fought bravely against the British rule to protect the rights and dignity of the tribal communities. “Tribal Pride Day is not limited to any one community – it symbolizes the spirit of unity and patriotism across the country,” he said.
Minister of State for Sports, Dr. Jairam Gambit, while addressing the gathering, described the history of the tribal community as one of courage and sacrifice.
He said, “Lord Birsa Munda gave his life for the freedom of the country. Inspired by his ideals, we should work together to build a prosperous, educated and empowered society.”
During the programme, tribal students of Tapi who participated in the ISRO exposure visit and winners of various sports competitions were honored with certificates. Beneficiaries of several government welfare schemes were also honoured, and lively cultural performances showcasing tribal traditions marked the celebrations.
The dignitaries present included Deputy Speaker of Gujarat Assembly Vijay Patel, District Panchayat President Jalamsingh Vasava, MLAs Mohan Dodhia (Mahuva) and Mohan Konkani (Vyara), Padma Shri awardee Ramilaben Gamit, District Collector Dr. Vipin Garg, District Development Officer Ramniwas Bugalia and other senior officials.
The event witnessed a huge turnout of residents, community leaders and youth from across Tapi district, turning the festival into a true festival of tribal unity and pride.
–IANS
janvi/uk