Sarhul Festival

What is Sarhul?

• Meaning: Sarhul means “worship of the Sal tree” and signifies the union of the Sun and the Earth, which is essential for life.
• Nature worship: The Sal tree is considered sacred, believed to be the abode of Sarna Maa, the village deity.
• Three-Day Festival:
  • Day 1 – Preparations begin, with homes and Sarna Sthals cleaned, Sal flowers gathered, and the village priest (pahan) observing a strict fast.
  • Day 2 – Main rituals are performed at Sarna Sthals (Sacred Groves), including sacrifices, prayers for prosperity, and cultural performances.
  • Day 3 – Concludes with a community feast, featuring Handia (rice beer), ceremonial fishing, and traditional adivasi cuisine.
• Sarhul across regions:
  • The festival is celebrated by several tribes, including the Oraon, Munda, Santal, Khadia, and Ho.
  • Anthropologist Sarat Chandra Roy (1928) noted that Sarhul evolved from a hunting-based ritual to an agricultural festival, reflecting changes in adivasi life.
  • Due to historical migration, Sarhul is now celebrated in Assam, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan.

Political Significance

• 1960s: Baba Karthik Oraon, an adivasi leader advocating for tribal rights and cultural preservation, initiated a Sarhul procession in Ranchi.
• Modern Processions: Over the last 60 years, Sarhul processions have become larger, with Siram Toli Sarna Sthal in Ranchi becoming a focal point.
• Assertion of Tribal Identity:
  • Adivasi communities use the festival to reaffirm their distinct identity.
  • Some groups demand official recognition of the Sarna religion in India's caste census.
  • Others, influenced by Hindu organizations, argue that Adivasis are part of Sanatan Dharma (Hinduism).

What Are Sacred Groves?

• Sacred Groves are small forest patches protected by local communities due to their religious and cultural
• These groves serve as biodiversity hotspots, preserving rare plant and animal species.
• Human activities such as hunting and deforestation are restricted, while sustainable practices like honey collection and deadwood gathering are permitted.

Sacred Groves Across India

• Successful Example: Piplantri village, Rajasthan
• Unique Initiative: 111 trees planted for every girl child born.
• Impact: Boosted local income, reduced female feticide, and empowered women’s self-help groups.