Chhota Nagpuri Migrant Adivasi Mela 2024: A Celebration of Tradition and Unity
In the first week of November 2024, PAHUNCH (the organization for the migrant outreach program of the Redemptorist Congregation from the Vice-Province of Majella), organized the Chhota Nagpuri Migrant Adivasi Mela 2024 at Redemptorist community- Marianella House, Nirmala Mata Church Campus, Umela, near Mumbai, India. ‘Mela’ is a joyful, vibrant gathering where people celebrate their cultural roots, engage in community activities, and strengthen their sense of identity and unity as migrants. Nearly 900 migrants from various parts of Mumbai and Vasai participated in the event, with people from Vasai, Virar, New Mumbai, and surrounding areas attending with great enthusiasm and energy.
The program kicked off with the blessings of God through the Eucharistic Celebration, a significant and inseparable part of the tradition for the Chhota Nagpuri migrant community. For them, any major event or festival is always begun with the blessing of the Lord through the Eucharist. Afterward, the guests were warmly welcomed by the participants, who performed a traditional dance accompanied by the sounds of Mandar, Dhol, and Kartaal—traditional instruments of the tribal migrants.
The event was marked by vibrant displays of culture, as nearly 19 different communities from Mumbai and the Vasai Diocese showcased their identity by proudly displaying their colorful flags during the procession.
Community Competitions and Cultural Celebrations
In the lead-up to the Mela, various community-level competitions were organized to engage participants. These included an essay writing competition on the issues faced by migrants and a drawing competition on various social issues. The communities participated with great enthusiasm and excitement, showcasing their creative talents.
On the Mela day itself, several events were held to highlight the cultural traditions of the migrants and ensure that they remain connected to their roots, despite living as migrants in the city. One of the most exciting parts of the event was the cultural competition, where representatives from each community performed their traditional Adivasi dances and Durang (cultural songs). The performances were followed by a prize distribution ceremony, where each participant was recognized and encouraged for their efforts to make the day memorable.
Traditional Foods, Crafts, and Entertainment
The Mela also featured a variety of food stalls offering traditional dishes from the Chhota Nagpuri region. In addition, stalls displayed handicrafts, clothing, and home products that reflected the rich cultural heritage of the migrant communities. There were also fun games for children, juice stalls, and vendors selling artificial jewelry, bags, and more, all celebrating the vibrant traditions of the Chhota Nagpuri people.
One of the highlights of the Mela was the Sailo Dance, a traditional community dance that marks the conclusion of every celebration among the tribal migrants. The Sailo Dance brought the traditions of the Chhota Nagpuri community to life, vividly expressing their cultural spirit.
Release of the Mgazine “The Migrant Concern”
The Mela also boasted the release of the annual report cum magazine named “The Migrant Concern” volume 5. The magazine was released by Fr Louis Menezes CSsR, the Vicar of the Vice Province of Majella, along with Fr Sanjay Kujur CSsR, the Consultor of the Province of Bangalore who also was the Chief Guest of the Mela. The Magazine gives the details of all the activities that are carried out during the year and also some interesting developments that happen in the field of Migration.
A Yearly Celebration of Unity
Throughout the year, PAHUNCH works with individuals and communities wherever the migrants reside, providing support and guidance. The Mela, however, serves as an annual occasion for all these diverse communities to come together under one roof and celebrate their shared identity as Chhota Nagpuri migrants in Mumbai and Vasai. It is a time for the migrants to come together as one people of God, united in faith and culture.
The Redemptorists of the Vice-Province of Majella take immense pride in their work with the migrant communities. They are deeply fulfilled by the opportunity to serve and support the people of God, ensuring that the dignity and heritage of the Chhota Nagpuri migrants are preserved and celebrated.
Fr Andrew Dantis CSsR
Executive Director
Pahunch Organization for Migrants
Vice Province of Majella- Mumbai.
