An Inspiring Touch on Sarhul Songs in Regional Languages : A Way of Culture and Tradition to Celebrate Sarhul

Sarhul, a vibrant festival celebrated by various tribal communities in Jharkhand and neighboring regions, is deeply intertwined with traditional music and dance. Each community expresses its reverence for nature and the arrival of spring through unique songs in their native languages. Here are some popular Sarhul songs from different linguistic traditions:

Santhali Songs:

The Santhal community refers to the Sarhul festival as Baha Parab. Their songs often depict themes of nature's beauty, daily life, and social relationships. One such song is:

*Latar Tola Rema Gayko Tolekan,
Chetan Gola Rema Kadako Tolekan,
Gayko Tolekan Do Todesutaam Te,
Kadako Tolekan Do Bandi Bod Te.*

This song reflects the Santhals' close relationship with nature and their gratitude for its abundance. citeturn0search3

Mundari Songs:

In the Mundari language, Sarhul is known as Baa Parob. Traditional Mundari songs performed during this festival praise the Sal tree and celebrate the renewal of life. While specific lyrics are traditionally passed down orally and may not be widely documented, these songs are characterized by rhythmic patterns and are accompanied by dances that symbolize community unity and harmony with nature.

Khortha Songs:

Among the Khortha-speaking communities, Sarhul is referred to as Gaddi Parab. Khortha songs during Sarhul are lively and often involve call-and-response patterns, celebrating the blossoming of the Sal tree and the fertility of the land. These songs are integral to the communal dances and rituals performed during the festival.

Kharia Songs:

For the Kharia tribe, the festival is known as Jangkar. Their traditional songs during Sarhul are deeply spiritual, invoking blessings from nature deities and ancestors. These songs are performed during rituals at the sacred groves (Sarna Sthal) and are accompanied by traditional instruments like the dhol and turhi.

Kurukh Songs:

The Kurukh-speaking Oraon community celebrates Sarhul with songs that honor the Earth and the Sun, symbolizing their union during this festival. Known as Khaddi in Kurukh, these songs are performed by the village priest (Pahan) and the community, expressing gratitude for nature's blessings and seeking prosperity for the coming year.

Kudmali and Panchpargania Songs:

In Kudmali and Panchpargania traditions, Sarhul songs are integral to the festival's communal dances and rituals. These songs celebrate the rejuvenation of nature and the unity of the community, often performed in group settings with traditional musical instruments.

While specific lyrics for many of these songs are traditionally preserved within the communities and may not be widely documented, the essence of Sarhul music across these languages embodies a deep connection to nature, gratitude for its gifts, and the celebration of life and community.

Skip to content

Enclosure 

Tribal Festival: Sarhul

Introduction

Sarhul is one of the most significant tribal festivals celebrated in the Indian states of Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, and Chhattisgarh, primarily by the Munda, Oraon, and Ho tribes. This festival marks the advent of spring and is dedicated to the worship of nature, especially trees and water sources. Sarhul, meaning ‘worship of Sal trees,’ is a festival of joy, gratitude, and community bonding.

Date and Significance

Sarhul is celebrated every year in the Hindu month of Chaitra, which usually falls in March or April. In 2025, Sarhul will be observed on April 1st. This festival is an occasion to thank nature for its bounty and seek blessings for prosperity, good health, and a successful harvest.

Rituals and Traditions

Sarhul is deeply rooted in nature worship and tribal customs. The main rituals of the festival include:

1. Sarna Puja (Worship of the Sacred Grove): Tribal priests, known as Pahans, perform rituals under Sal trees in sacred groves (Sarna Sthal), offering prayers to the deity of nature.

2. Offering of Mahua and Sal Flowers: The Sal tree blooms during this time, and the fresh flowers are considered sacred. These flowers are offered to the deities and distributed among the people.

3. Traditional Dance and Music: The festival is incomplete without vibrant folk dances and music performed by men and women in colorful traditional attire.

4. Consumption of Handia (Rice Beer): Handia, a fermented rice beer, is an essential part of the celebrations. It symbolizes unity and is shared among the community members.

5. Community Feasts: Large communal feasts are organized where people enjoy local delicacies made from rice, pulses, and forest produce.

Cultural Importance

Sarhul is not just a festival; it is a way of life for the tribal communities. It strengthens social bonds, reinforces the relationship between humans and nature, and preserves indigenous traditions. The festival also promotes environmental consciousness, as it emphasizes the significance of trees and water in sustaining life.

Modern-Day Celebrations

With modernization, the celebrations of Sarhul have evolved. While the essence remains intact, urban tribal communities also organize cultural programs, processions, and awareness campaigns to highlight the importance of their traditions. The festival is now recognized as an important cultural heritage, drawing attention from across the country.

Conclusion

Sarhul is a vibrant and spiritually significant festival that reflects the deep connection of tribal communities with nature. It is a time of renewal, gratitude, and celebration, bringing people together in harmony and joy. As we approach April 1, 2025, the festival will once again remind us of the timeless bond between humans and the environment, urging us to protect and cherish nature for future generations.