





Ranchi: Morhabadi Maidan in Ranchi turned into a vibrant showcase of Jharkhand’s tribal culture on World Tribal Day, with the Jharkhand Tribal Festival 2026 bringing together traditional art, music and dance from across the country.
Addressing the two-day festival, Chief Minister Hemant Soren highlighted the state’s rich tribal heritage and the traditions of its 33 tribal communities. He said the festival was not just a celebration of culture but also an opportunity to showcase the values, traditions and way of life rooted in nature and harmony.
The venue came alive with the beats of mandars and nagadas, while artists dressed in traditional attire performed Nagpuri, Jhumar, Sarhul and Karma dances. Thousands of performers from different states participated in the event, offering visitors a glimpse into the diverse tribal traditions and lifestyles of the country.



The Chief Minister also used the occasion to address the ongoing student agitation in the state. Soren said the government was taking the students’ concerns seriously and that the issues related to the examinations were being examined in a transparent manner.
Amid the continuing dispute over examinations, he indicated that irregularities had been identified and assured that strict action would be taken against those found responsible. Dialogue between the government and protesting students has also continued in recent days, with efforts underway to find a solution to the issues raised by them.
Soren appealed to the protesting students to remain patient and maintain their trust in the government, saying that their rights and future were a matter of serious concern for his administration.
He also cautioned opposition parties against attempting to give a political colour to the students’ movement.
The festival, therefore, served a dual purpose — celebrating Jharkhand’s deep-rooted tribal identity while also providing the Chief Minister a platform to send a message on an issue that has been drawing considerable attention in the state. The focus now shifts to whether the assurances given by the government will translate into concrete action on the ground.

