A new sacred space for the Adivasi community has opened in Jhitankitoli, near Ranchi. This site, called a Sarna sthal, will be a place for traditional worship and cultural activities. The new Sarna sthal covers 60 decimals of land and is located in Bajra Mouja.
A Place for Worship and Community
The opening ceremony took place on Thursday. Social workers Praveen Kachhap and Pawan Tirkey organized the event. The Pahan, who is the village priest, raised the Sarna flag. This act showed that the space is sacred and dedicated to Sarna Maa, their main deity.
After the flag raising, the Adivasi community held a prayer meeting. People came from nearby villages like Ratu, Argora, and Mahuatoli to participate. Hundreds of people showed their support for the new Sarna sthal. This highlights the importance of community and shared cultural heritage.
Protecting Adivasi Traditions
Geeta Shree Oraon, a former Education Minister, spoke at the event. She stressed how important it is to protect the religious grounds of the Adivasi community. These places, like this new Sarna sthal, help preserve Adivasi traditions for future generations. Preserving this land is crucial to maintaining their cultural identity. If you’re interested in learning more about cultural preservation, consider exploring the efforts to protect other indigenous traditions worldwide.
The creation of this Sarna sthal means more than just having a place to worship. It strengthens the cultural identity of the Adivasi community in the area. It ensures that young people can learn about and practice their ancestral faith. This keeps them connected to their heritage. This also shows the importance of protecting Adivasi land and culture.