Celebrating the Festival of Nature: A Tribal Festival "Sarhul" Dedicated to Conserve the Nature by Heart and Soul
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: Sarna Puja (Worship of the Sacred Grove) : Tribal priests, known as Pahans, perform rituals under Sal trees in sacred groves (Sarna S...