Tusu festival, the vibrant harvest celebration of the tribal community, brought the city alive with traditional fanfare, cultural events, and immense joy. Tribals from across Jamshedpur and its outskirts gathered to mark the occasion, which celebrates the bountiful harvest and pays homage to Goddess Tusu.
The festivities were highlighted by the Tusu Mahotsav, organized at prominent venues such as Domuhani in Sonari, where the Subarnarekha and Kharkai rivers converge, and at Itagarh. The Jharkhand Sanskritik Kala Kendra, a socio-cultural organization, took the lead in hosting the Tusu fair at Domuhani. The event drew not only tribal participants but also politicians and social workers who joined in the celebrations, dancing to the rhythmic beats of tribal musical instruments.
The Tusu Mela at Domuhani is renowned as one of the largest and most popular fairs in the region. Hundreds of people, particularly from tribal communities, thronged the venue to partake in the festive spirit. The highlight of the mela was the immersion of idols of Goddess Tusu, carried to the river by various tribal groups. The fair, known for its historical significance, showcased traditional events and vibrant festivities that attracted a massive crowd.
Dikuram Manjhi, president of the Tusu Mela Samiti at Itagarh, highlighted the importance of the mela, stating that it aims to spotlight tribal culture and artisanship. He emphasized that the festival provides a platform to showcase traditional art forms and crafts while preserving the essence of tribal heritage. Contests and cultural programs further enriched the festivities.
The Tusu Parab, which holds significant religious and cultural importance, also finds roots in neighboring Bengal. It is celebrated as a devotional expression, particularly among young women from farming families, who seek blessings from the Goddess. Unlike Jharkhand’s celebrations, Bengal’s Tusu Parab is characterized by vocal performances without the accompaniment of instruments, showcasing its unique cultural flavor.
Anand Mahato, a participant, described Tusu as a harvest carnival that celebrates prosperity and community spirit. He explained that the festival is marked by the immersion of elaborate choudals—towering temple-like structures adorned with tribal deities. These giant idols are a visual spectacle, drawing visitors from far and wide.
As the sun set over Domuhani, the convergence of rivers mirrored the confluence of traditions and festivities. The Tusu festival once again proved to be a vibrant celebration of tribal heritage, fostering community bonding while preserving the cultural legacy of Jharkhand.
