National Tribal Festival “Aadi Mahotsav”

What is the News?

The Vice President of India has inaugurated “Aadi Mahotsav”, a National Tribal Festival.

1. Aadi Mahotsav: It is an annual Tribal Festival that was started in the year 2017.
2. Organized by: It is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India & Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED).
3. Aim: It aimed to familiarise the people with the rich and diverse craft, and the culture of the tribal communities, in one place.
4. Theme: “A Celebration of the Spirit of Tribal Crafts, Culture and Commerce”, which represents the basic ethos of tribal life.

Key highlights of the festival:

1. Tribal Handicrafts: The festival showcased several tribal handicrafts such as:
   1. Maheshwari sarees of Madhya Pradesh
   2. Toda embroidery from Tamil Nadu
   3. Moga silk from Assam
2. Tribal dishes: The festival also showcased several tribal dishes from different parts of the country namely:
   1. Dal Pitha, Dhooska, Chilka roti from Jharkhand
   2. Gurudi, Jowar papad and roti on Mahalpatta from Maharashtra, and
   3. Samai urundai, Ragi kali and Thenai rice preparations from Tamil Nadu.

What is the significance of this festival?

1. Tribes constitute over 8% of our population. However, they are among the most disadvantaged sections of society.
2. Their crafts are characterised by natural simplicity, with a timeless appeal. The wide range of handicrafts which include hand-woven cotton, silk fabrics, wool, metal craft, terracotta, bead-work, all need to be preserved and promoted.
3. Hence, TRIFED as the nodal agency is working to improve the income and livelihoods of the tribal people, while preserving their way of life and traditions.

Source: PIB