The Central University of Punjab, under the patronage of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Raghavendra P. Tiwari, organized a special programme featuring an invited talk to mark Janjatiya Gaurav Divas (JJGD) and honour the remarkable contributions of India’s tribal communities to the nation’s history, heritage, and cultural ethos.
At the outset, Prof. Hareet Meena, on behalf of the organizing committee, warmly welcomed all participants. He mentioned that the university has been conducting a series of events to create awareness among students about the life, philosophy, and historic contributions of Dharti Abha Birsa Munda Ji, a revered tribal freedom fighter and national icon.
He added that such initiatives aim to instill respect for indigenous knowledge systems and promote cultural sensitivity among the younger generation. The invited speaker for the programme, Dr. Prithvi Raj from the Department of English, delivered an engaging lecture on “Cultural Heritage of Janjatiya Practices.”
Drawing upon his extensive research in cultural studies, he emphasized that understanding cultural heritage requires scholars to employ nuanced and community-sensitive methodological approaches. He highlighted the traditional customs, ecological knowledge, and artistic practices of the Bhil and Gond communities—two of India’s largest tribal groups known for their vibrant culture, folklore, and deep connection with nature.
Dr. Prithvi Raj encouraged students to learn from these communities’ simplicity, resilience, and sustainable lifestyles, urging them to take pride in India’s rich indigenous heritage. In his presidential address, Prof. Raghavendra P. Tiwari, Vice-Chancellor, delivered an inspiring message on the significance of Janjatiya Gaurav Divas. He stated that modern society’s growing sense of duality—between humans and nature, tradition and modernity, individualism and community living—has distanced us from the fundamental philosophy of oneness.
This disconnect, he said, is one of the reasons behind the current ecological imbalance and the declining harmony between humans and the environment. Vice-Chancellor Prof. Tiwari highlighted that Dharti Abha Birsa Munda Ji’s life and ideals offer essential lessons on unity, courage, and environmental stewardship.
He emphasized that tribal communities, with their nature-centric worldview, have long preserved ecological balance through sustainable living, collective responsibility, and respect for biodiversity. He urged the youth to draw inspiration from these values and strive to adopt lifestyles that promote environmental protection, cultural preservation, and social harmony.
On this occasion, the Vice-Chancellor also awarded the winners of Essay Writing and Declamation Competitions held as part of the JJGD celebrations. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the dignitaries, faculty members, students, and staff for their enthusiastic participation.
The event reaffirmed the university’s dedication to promoting cultural awareness, inclusivity, and respect for India’s diverse indigenous traditions.