Why is it in the news?
President extended greetings on the occasion of Sarhul festival.
It highlights tribal cultural traditions and nature worship practices.
Category: Culture
Important Points:
● Sarhul means “worship of the Sal tree”
● It is a major Adivasi festival rooted in nature worship
● Celebrates symbolic union of Sun and Earth
● Sal tree is considered abode of village deity Sama Maa
● Priest (pahan) represents Sun and wife represents Earth
● Marks renewal of life and beginning of agricultural cycle
● Celebrated by Oraon, Munda, Santal, Khadia and Ho tribes
● Observed mainly in Jharkhand, Odisha, WB and Chhattisgarh
● Celebrated as a three-day festival with rituals and community feast