Giridih: Addressing the ‘Marang Buru Dhoragarh Mahasammelan’—organized by the tribal community at Parasnath-Madhuban on Thursday—as the chief guest, Chief Minister Hemant Soren stated that the existence of the tribal community, who are worshippers and protectors of nature, dates back to ancient history. He noted that ‘Marang Buru,’ deeply embedded in Santali faith, serves as a symbol of the tribal community’s identity, culture, and self-respect.
The Chief Minister emphasized that his objective is to contribute meaningfully to the development and upliftment of the tribal community by protecting their rights, while simultaneously respecting all religions. In his address—delivered in the Santali language—he discussed the religious, cultural, and traditional aspects of the tribal community. He assured representatives who had arrived from various regions—including Nepal, Bangladesh, Nagaland, and Mizoram—that he has always been, and will continue to be, actively committed to the rights and development of the tribal community.
Prior to this, MLA Kalpana Soren remarked that the tribal community has remained vigilant and has struggled for its rights and social traditions for centuries; the Santal community knows how to secure its own rights. Referring to the ‘SIR’ (Settlement/Survey) records, she pointed out that the existence of the tribal community predates the invention of formal documentation. While the community does not rely on paper-based proof for its identity, it is unjust to remove individuals’ names from electoral rolls due to illiteracy or administrative errors. During the concluding session of the conference, a copy of a resolution passed regarding Parasnath was also presented to the Chief Minister.
Earlier, on Wednesday, a two-day religious conference commenced at the foothills of the world-renowned pilgrimage site, Parasnath (Sammed Shikhar), in Madhuban. Organized by the ‘Marang Buru Bachao Sangharsh Samiti’ (Marang Buru Save Struggle Committee), the event began with traditional rituals and prayers offered to Marang Buru at the ‘Jug Jaherthan’ (sacred tribal grove). As part of the conference program, the organizers conducted prayers and rituals for ‘Marang Buru’ at the ‘Jug Jaherthan’—a sacred site located on Parasnath Hill—following traditional customs. The rituals were led by Fagu Besra, a minister in the Hemant Soren-led government.
It was stated during the event that the objective of this religious conference is to reinforce the religious, cultural, and spiritual significance of Marang Buru, as well as to strengthen the community’s faith, reverence, and devotion toward the deity. Furthermore, the event aimed to preserve the community’s traditional religious beliefs, customs, and cultural identity. Extensive discussions were also held regarding the conservation of Parasnath Hill. Representatives from various regions participated in all the religious proceedings of the two-day conference with great faith and enthusiasm. During the event, the participants also engaged in discussions and shared their views on various social issues. The success of the event was made possible through the contributions of several individuals, including Mahavir Murmu, Dilip Murmu, Shashank Besra, Mahesh Marandi, and other members of the ‘Marang Buru Bachao Sangharsh Samiti’ (Marang Buru Protection Struggle Committee).
