President Droupadi Murmu has emphasized the critical need to safeguard and advance tribal languages, rich cultures, and invaluable traditional knowledge. Her powerful message came during the significant centenary celebrations of the Ol Chiki script, held in the East Singhbhum district of Jharkhand. This milestone event honored 100 years of the Ol Chiki script, a remarkable creation by Pandit Raghunath Murmu, which has profoundly shaped the Santhali community’s cultural identity and pride.
President Murmu began her address by performing a Santhali Nehor prayer song, a melody from her childhood. She explained that the song invokes blessings from Jaher Ayo, representing Mother Nature, to guide society towards righteousness. In a deeply moving moment, the President delivered her entire speech in the Santhali language, expressing the profound emotional impact of her visit to this sacred site. She lauded the unwavering commitment of Santhali writers and social activists who tirelessly work to preserve the Ol Chiki script and the Santhali language.
The President highlighted the Union government’s historic initiative to publish the Constitution of India in the Ol Chiki script, a move that significantly bolsters linguistic inclusivity. She further asserted that for governance to be truly effective, laws and administrative details must be accessible to all citizens in their native tongues. During the ceremony, President Murmu recognized twelve individuals for their outstanding contributions to the advancement of Santhali language and literature. Local dignitaries, including the Governor and Chief Minister, pledged their continued support for preserving tribal heritage.
