Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Saturday urged people to protect nature, calling it the highest form of worship, while addressing Sarhul celebrations in Ranchi.
Speaking at an event held at the Tribal College Hostel in Karam Toli, Soren highlighted the deep connection between humans and nature, a central theme of the festival.
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“If nature did not exist, there would be no living beings. This entire system is sustained by nature,” he said.
Sarhul Celebrates Bond Between Humans and Nature
Sarhul, one of Jharkhand’s most significant tribal festivals, marks the arrival of spring and symbolises harmony with nature.
Soren emphasised that tribal communities have long upheld a strong belief in natural balance and ecological preservation.
“We must reconnect with nature. As long as nature is protected, our existence remains secure,” he added.
The Chief Minister, accompanied by his wife and MLA Kalpana Soren, took part in traditional rituals at the hostel campus.
He also joined celebrations at the Sarna Sthal in Siramtoli and played the traditional tribal instrument Mandar, drawing applause from attendees.
Across the state, people dressed in traditional attire participated in vibrant processions, dancing to folk music and celebrating their cultural heritage.
Traditional Rituals Predict Normal Monsoon
The festival began with customary morning rituals, followed by a traditional method of forecasting the monsoon.
Tribal priests, known as “pahans,” placed water-filled earthen pots under a sal tree at the Sarna site. Based on these observations, priest Jaglal Pahan predicted normal rainfall in Jharkhand this year.
Meanwhile, a separate incident briefly disrupted celebrations in Ranchi.
A stage erected near Albert Ekka Chowk collapsed following heavy rainfall, injuring several people.
Police said a large crowd had gathered near the structure when it gave way. The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, and their condition is being monitored.
Eid-ul-Fitr Celebrated Across Jharkhand
Alongside Sarhul, Eid-ul-Fitr was also celebrated across Jharkhand with tight security arrangements.
In Ranchi, large congregations gathered at key locations including Harmu Idgah, Upper Bazar Jama Masjid, Doranda Idgah, Kadru Idgah, and Iqra Masjid to offer prayers.
Authorities ensured peaceful celebrations across the state.
A Festival of Unity and Nature
The Sarhul festival once again highlighted Jharkhand’s rich tribal traditions and the importance of environmental harmony.
Soren’s message reinforced the need for collective responsibility in preserving nature, especially at a time when environmental concerns are growing globally.
