On World Tribal Day, officially the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren paid an emotional tribute to his late father, former CM Shibu Soren, who passed away on Monday at 81 in a Delhi hospital. This year’s Adivasi Mahotsav, celebrated across Jharkhand, was observed somberly to honor Shibu Soren’s legacy.

In a heartfelt post on X, Hemant Soren reflected on his father’s enduring contributions. “My guide, my guru, my father is no longer with us physically, but his struggle and ideals will always inspire us. He was the soul of Jharkhand and the Adivasi community, a symbol of resistance, and a fierce protector of Jal-Jungle-Jamin (water, forest, and land),” Soren wrote.

He emphasized the tribal society’s harmony with nature, crediting it with teaching humanity how to live happily. “The Adivasi philosophy begins and ends with nature, yet for centuries, these communities have been marginalized. Baba dedicated his life to changing this,” Soren said.

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World Tribal Day, a celebration of tribal culture and civilization, was an event Shibu Soren cherished, as it showcased the Adivasi community’s talents globally. “It’s a platform to unite and uplift our rich heritage,” Soren noted.

Expressing gratitude to his father and all ancestors who fought for tribal identity, Soren pledged to carry forward their mission. “I vow to follow their path and elevate the torch of tribal pride in Jharkhand and beyond,” he declared.

The muted celebrations this year reflect the state’s collective mourning for Shibu Soren, whose lifelong advocacy for tribal rights continues to inspire.

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