Jamshedpur: Tusu Fair at Sonari Domuhani celebrates Jharkhand’s rich cultural heritage

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur, Jan 14: A grand Tusu fair was organized by Jharkhand Sanskriti Kala Kendra on the banks of Sonari Domuhani today, attracting participants from across the region. The event celebrated the cultural importance of the Tusu festival and offered a platform for showcasing artistic creations, with cash prizes awarded for the best Tusu idols and Chaudal.

State Education Minister Ramdas Soren graced the occasion as the chief guest, along with several notable dignitaries including MLA Savita Mahato, Chairman of the State Minority Commission Hidayat Khan, Vice President of the State Gau Seva Commission Raju Giri, District Vice President of the 20-Point Committee Mohan Karmakar, former MPs Shailendra Mahato and Suman Mahato and former MLA Kunal Sharangi. The event was conducted by Dilip Das with PK Rai delivering the vote of thanks.

In his speech, Minister Ramdas Soren emphasized the cultural significance of the Tusu fair, stating, “The Tusu fair has been celebrated for many years and is an occasion for families to come together. This event, which witnesses participation from not only Jharkhand but also West Bengal and Odisha, helps preserve our traditions and educates the younger generation about their heritage. All of Jharkhand’s festivals are closely connected to the land.”

Mohan Karmakar, District Vice President of the 20-Point Committee, further highlighted the importance of the festival for the tribal community, calling it “the biggest festival of the tribals and natives of Jharkhand.” He mentioned that the Tusu festival would continue for the next 8-10 days in various regions, with people celebrating according to their own customs.

The fair also saw the distribution of generous cash prizes to those who brought the most captivating Tusu idols and Chaudal. The first prize of Rs. 35,000 for the best Tusu idol was awarded to Dhananjay Mahato of Rajnagar’s Maa Mansa Samiti. The second prize of Rs. 25,000 went to Shahri Mahato of Shri Shri Sarvajanik Tusu Samiti from Rajnagar, while the third prize of Rs. 21,000 was awarded to Jagannath Mahato of Sosomoli, Rajnagar. Additional prizes were given to Sushant Gorai (Rajnagar) and Raghunath Mahato (Galudih).

For Chaudal, Juru Mahato from Churudih, Bodam, took home Rs. 21,000. Rs. 5,000 was awarded to the Baba Tilka Manjhi Basti team for their exceptional dance and song performance. Additionally, a consolation prize was given to Sadhu Mardi from Sonari Balram Basti for his Budhi Gaadi dance performance.

The event was a testament to the rich cultural traditions of Jharkhand, bringing the community together in celebration and reverence.