Sarhul

The tribal New Year festival worshipping nature and the sacred Sal tree, marked by heavy drumming and local flower distribution.

The new year begins with the flowering of the sal trees. The Adivasi communities believe the divine dwells in trees and nature, so nature's permission must be sought before the farming season begins.

People wear traditional red-and-white sarees and dhotis and dance the jhumur. The pahan (priest) distributes sal blossoms to every household, and handia (rice beer) is offered.

The pahan performs the rites in the sacred grove, and the coming year's rains are foretold from water kept in earthen pots. Sal blossoms are worn tucked behind the ear.

Worship at the jaherthan (sacred grove) is believed to keep disease from the village and bring a rich harvest, for the sal trees are home to the bonga spirits.

Sarhul is as old as the Adivasi culture of the Munda, Oraon and Santhal tribes, carrying their reverence for nature down the centuries; it is now a recognised state festival.

The Adivasi new year in Jharkhand, kept when the sal trees come into flower in spring. The sal blossom is offered first and nothing is taken from the forest before that. Mandar drums, processions behind tribal flags, and long lines of dancers with arms linked. Ranchi holds the largest of it.