Schools connected with the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth in Jharkhand marked World Indigenous Peoples’ Day on Aug. 9 with celebrations of Indigenous culture, identity and traditions. Across the region, students joined Sisters, teachers and local communities in dance, music, art and educational programs that emphasized cultural pride and the importance of preserving Indigenous heritage.
Nazareth Schools Join Community Celebration in Chatra
Contributed by Sister Susheela Hansda
In Chatra district, Indigenous communities gathered at Pakaria to celebrate the day together. Ravi Anand, deputy commissioner of Chatra, attended as chief guest, while Satyanand Bhokta, former minister of Labor, Employment, Training and Skill Development, was the guest of honor.
Students and staff from Nazareth School and Nazareth Vidya Niketan High School and Middle School joined the community celebration and presented a cultural program highlighting Indigenous traditions and identity. The gathering honored the heritage and contributions of Indigenous communities while drawing attention to the importance of protecting their culture and rights.
Nazareth Vidya Niketan Middle School, Chatra
Contributed by Sister Nutan Kujur
Twenty-five students from Nazareth Vidya Niketan Middle School, accompanied by teachers and Sisters, participated in the Indigenous Day celebration at Sarna Tungri, Pakariya. The students presented a tribal dance reflecting the traditions and identity of their community.
Participation in the community gathering gave students an opportunity to learn about their cultural roots and take pride in their Adivasi identity. The experience also emphasized the importance of passing Indigenous culture and traditions to younger generations.
St. Xavier’s Middle School, Lupungutu
Contributed by Sister Paulina Kerketta
Students and teachers at St. Xavier’s Middle School in Lupungutu celebrated Indigenous heritage through traditional songs, dances and attire. Participants also shared the histories of their tribes, including their customs, beliefs and ways of life.
Students expressed their creativity through a drawing competition centered on Indigenous culture. The activities encouraged them to appreciate the diversity of Indigenous communities and recognize the value of preserving cultural traditions.
Gyandeep Vidyalaya, Birsanagar
Contributed by Sister Salomi Marandi
At Gyandeep Vidyalaya in Birsanagar, students explored Indigenous culture and history through speeches, songs, presentations and cultural performances. The celebration helped students learn about the importance of preserving Indigenous languages, customs, art and traditions.
Teachers also emphasized unity, equality, respect and peaceful coexistence. The program encouraged students to appreciate cultural diversity while recognizing the importance of respecting the heritage and rights of Indigenous peoples.
Celebrating Identity Across Communities
Although each celebration took its own form, the schools shared a common purpose: helping young people understand, celebrate and carry forward their Indigenous heritage.
Through dance, music, art, storytelling and participation in community gatherings, students had opportunities to connect with traditions that remain an important part of life across Jharkhand. The celebrations also reinforced respect for Indigenous identity, cultural diversity and the rights of Indigenous communities.