Grand Tusu Mela on January 21 in Jamshedpur

Jamshedpur: The Jharkhandvasi Ekta Manch is gearing up to host the grand Tusu Mela on Tuesday, January 21, at Bistupur Gopal Maidan. Speaking at a press conference held at Nirmal Bhawan in Sonari, the Manch’s Chief Convenor Astik Mahato and Convenor cum MP Bidyut Baran Mahato provided detailed information about the event, which celebrates Jharkhand’s rich cultural heritage. The Tusu Mela, initiated in 2006 by former MP late Sunil Mahato, has become an annual tradition held on the same date.

This year, participants will compete in three categories—Tusu Idol, Chaudal, and Budhi Gaadi Naach—with significant cash prizes at stake. For the Tusu Idol competition, prizes range from ₹31,000 for first place to ₹5,000 for seventh place. The Chaudal competition offers a top prize of ₹25,000, while the Budhi Gaadi Naach competition awards ₹15,000 to the best performers. To encourage participation, consolation prizes will be given to all participants.

The event will see participation from individuals and cultural committees across Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, and Chhattisgarh. Participants, along with their Tusu idols and Chaudal, are expected to start arriving at the venue from 7:00 AM. Highlighting the cultural significance of the festival, Vidyut Mahato urged the youth to preserve the traditions of Tusu and Makar festivals and emphasized the need to pass this legacy to future generations. He also appealed to the state government to declare a three-day holiday for Tusu in recognition of its importance.

Astik Mahato expressed optimism about this year’s turnout, noting that last year saw over 200 teams participate in the festivities. He encouraged people from other communities and states to attend the Mela to experience Jharkhand’s vibrant culture firsthand. Additionally, he invited participants to showcase their unique cultural traditions, fostering a spirit of unity in diversity.

The organizers have assured smooth management of the event, with members of the forum and volunteers working to ensure the safety of attendees. The event will also feature street plays, handbills, and pamphlets to create awareness about the cultural significance of Tusu and promote participation.