World Tribal Day 2025: Mumbai Hosts 'Vanarang' To Celebrate Maharashtra’s Rich Tribal Heritage

Vanarang, a  celebration of tribal culture, was organised at Yashwantrao Chavan Centre in Mumbai on Saturday.

The function marked 'World Tribal Day', observed as part of the 'International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples'. The tribal population in India accounts for 8.7% of the total, while in Maharashtra it is higher, at 9.4%.

The celebration of tribal culture, conceived by tribal leader and minister for food and drug administration, Narhari Zirwal, showcased a blend of tribal music, culture, art, and dance, offering Mumbaikars a rare and captivating glimpse into the richness of tribal heritage. The state-level 'Adivasi Bhushan' and 'Adivasi Jivan Gaurav' awards were also presented at the event.

Food and civil supplies minister Chhagan Bhujbal: assembly speaker Rahul Narwekar; BJP vice-president Prasad Lad; Shiv Sena MLC Sachin Ahir, and actor Bhau Kadam were guests at the function.

Call for Tribal Self-Reliance

“A tribal-dominated country like Kenya has preserved its tribal culture while making its tribal communities self-reliant. As a result, they do not have to depend on others as their needs are met right where they live, while still upholding their traditions. I will pursue this matter with the Maharashtra government and work towards making our tribal communities self-sufficient,” Zirwal said on the occasion.

The audience enjoyed tarfa, Warli, Rela, and other tribal dances. A Warli art exhibition and the art and performances of tribal artists from Nashik, Palghar, and Gadchiroli districts, were other highlights of the event.

Book on Tribal Life Released

'Kajvyache Jagne', or 'The Awakening of the Fireflies', a book depicting the various aspects of tribal life, stories of struggle, and their rich traditions, was released during the function.