Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas Kickstarts in Vizag with Cultural Splendor
Visakhapatnam, November 15, 2023 – Visakhapatnam (Vizag) is alive with festivities as India celebrates Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas (Tribal Pride Day) on the birth anniversary of tribal freedom icon Birsa Munda. The city is hosting a week-long showcase of tribal art, dance, and crafts, attracting thousands to honor Andhra Pradesh’s indigenous heritage.
Why Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas Matters
Declared in 2021 by PM Narendra Modi, the day pays tribute to tribal leaders like Birsa Munda, who led the Ulgulan Rebellion against British rule. Vizag’s events spotlight tribal contributions to India’s freedom struggle and ecological wisdom.
Highlights of Vizag’s Celebrations
- Grand Procession at RK Beach
- Over 500 tribal performers from AP, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh paraded in traditional attire, dancing to Dappu and Tappeta Gullu beats.
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Rare handicrafts like Lambadi embroidery and Dhimsa masks were displayed.
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Andhra University’s Cultural Showcase
- Governor S. Abdul Nazeer inaugurated exhibitions and panel discussions on tribal rights.
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Araku Valley Dhimsa dancers and Koya drummers stole the show.
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Sustainable Tribal Development Initiatives
- ITDA launched skill programs for organic farming and eco-tourism.
- SV Zoo Park exhibited tribal conservation methods by the Kondh and Savara communities.
PM Modi’s Key Announcements
In a virtual address, PM Modi introduced the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Vikas Mission (₹15,000 crore) to expand Eklavya schools and healthcare for tribal youth.
Voices of the Tribal Community
- Suni Pangi (Gadaba elder): “Our traditions must not fade.”
- Lakshmi Durua (Activist): “We need platforms to share our stories.”
Future Commitments
Vizag’s administration pledged to:
– Document oral tribal histories.
– Establish more tribal museums.
Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas reminds us of Birsa Munda’s words: “No power can cage our voices.”
For tribal event photos and updates, visit [Official Vizag Tourism].
