Jharkhand’s cultural heart beats strongly in Ranchi, especially during the grand celebration of Sohrai, an ancient festival observed following Kartik Amavasya. This festival is a profound expression of gratitude for agricultural success and a testament to the importance of livestock in the region’s way of life. The ‘Brihad Jharkhand Sanskriti Kala Manch’ successfully organized a large-scale ‘Thahre Sohrai’ event at Morabadi Maidan, bringing together a multitude of culture enthusiasts from across the state. The gathering proudly represented the state’s diversity, encompassing tribal, indigenous communities, and people from all walks of life.
A visually striking procession, filled with traditional music and dance, wound its way through the city, starting from Morabadi Maidan and passing through SSP Chowk, Redium Road, and Kachahari Chowk, ultimately arriving at Jaipal Singh Stadium. Devendranath Mahto, who serves as the Vice President of the ‘Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha’, was among the many who participated in the Sohrai procession.
At Jaipal Singh Stadium, the Akhada exhibition officially commenced after a ceremonial garlanding of the statue of Marang Gomke Jaipal Singh Munda. The procession’s scale led to considerable traffic jams, requiring the intervention of traffic management authorities. The Sohrai Akhada at the stadium was alive with the vibrant sounds and sights of celebration, as attendees danced and sang with unbridled joy. Women played a significant role in upholding the festival’s traditional practices and musical elements, while accomplished regional artists delivered captivating performances. The festival perfectly captured the essence of celebrating new harvests, honoring agricultural tools, and cherishing the bond with farm animals.