The ongoing national conference, Akhil Bhartiya Karyakarta Sammelan, Samavet – 2024, has made significant strides in promoting the cause of the tribal community with the unveiling of a book titled “Rani Durgawati – Nari Shakti ki Anokhi Misaal.” This event coincides with the upcoming 500th birth anniversary of Rani Durgawati, a formidable queen of the Gond kingdom who courageously stood against the Mughal Empire.
The book, authored by Dr. Rekha Nagar and Dr. Madan Singh Waskel and published by Prabhat Prakashan, explores the life and sacrifices of Rani Durgawati, a notable figure from the Chandela dynasty of Mahoba. It highlights her exceptional administrative skills and valor in the face of adversity, shedding light on her enduring legacy in Indian history. The timing of the book’s launch is particularly poignant, as the nation prepares to commemorate Rani Durgawati’s birth anniversary on October 5.
The unveiling of “Rani Durgawati – Nari Shakti ki Anokhi Misaal” was part of a larger initiative at the Sammelan, where 14 books focused on various freedom fighters from tribal communities across India were presented. Other notable titles included “Janjati ki Shrishti Katha” by Dr. Raj Kishore Hansda and “Genocide of Indigenous People” by Vivekanand Nartam from Shyam Lal College, Delhi University. Attendees were enthusiastic, with many purchasing books at the specially set up ‘Book Stall.’
Atul Jog, All India Organising Secretary of the Akhil Bhartiya Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram (ABVKA), emphasised the importance of celebrating Rani Durgawati’s legacy and the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda on November 15 during the Janjatiye Gaurav Diwas. He called for nationwide celebrations to honor these influential figures in Indian history.
The Sammelan, which is in its second day, features a unique cultural display where nearly 80 tribal societies from across India will showcase their traditional worship practices. The Pooja Padyati Pandals, a key highlight of the event, will display rituals ranging from the worship of deities in physical forms (Saakar) to the veneration of the formless (Niraakar). These practices are deeply rooted in India’s ancient spiritual connection with nature, offering attendees a rare glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of tribal communities.
The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak, Dr Mohan Bhagwat, is scheduled to attend the Pooja Padyati Pandals, further emphasiSing the significance of this gathering in fostering unity and solidarity among diverse communities.
The Akhil Bhartiya Karyakarta Sammelan is a triennial event organiSed by ABVKA, attracting 2,000 representatives from various tribal and other communities across the country, including remote areas, urban centers, and even representatives from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Nepal. This gathering serves as a crucial platform to celebrate India’s diverse cultural heritage while promoting solidarity among its people.
The conference began on September 20 with an inaugural session led by renowned spiritual speaker Ramesh Bhai Ojha from Gujarat, setting a powerful tone for the proceedings. For many attendees, this event provides a rare opportunity to witness and engage with the cultural richness of India’s tribal societies, which are often isolated from mainstream urban life.
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