THE APPROACH/
‘We rise by lifting others’
This is about a vibrant festival, where age-old traditions of equality within the ‘Bhumij’ tribal community of India come alive. They do not have dowry system or gender inequality. They respect women and their contribution to make the community united through moral, social and human values. They help to bind the community together and foster a healthy competitive spirit among the youth. To protect the dignity and empower the women the community arranges ‘LAKHA BINDHA’ (Archery) as a sports festival for both male & female. They consider the role of women is pivotal and superabundant.
From the arrangement of sacred puja items to the decoration of the pillar, the festival involves all in the memory of visionary leader ‘BHAGAWAN BIRSA MUNDA’ who empowered his community by raising awareness about their own rights. The pillar is covered with hay and straw, different marks are made on the pillar for shooting which symbolizes a sense of unity. The winners are honored with prizes, followed by exhilarating sports-based competitions that showcase the youthful energy and camaraderie within the community.
