Nature’s adherence in the Santhali Maghsim festival : A Field study/ সাঁওতালি মাঘসিম উৎসবে প্রকৃতির অনুষঙ্গ : একটি ক্ষেত্রসমীক্ষা

Abstract

In the present time, discussions on the anthropology of different languages, ethnic groups, and tribes are very important in the practice of culture. However, our reluctance to engage with the languages and cultures of specific tribes creates a significant gap in understanding. The cultures of various tribes in India are on the verge of extinction, primarily due to excessive modernization and ecological imbalance. In this essay, I have discussed the Maghsim festival, celebrated by the Santhali tribe as a tribute to nature. According to the Bengali calendar, this festival is observed in the month of Magh (Bengali Month), while in the Santhali calendar, this month marks the beginning of their new year. Santhali people do not engage in any daily activities before performing the Maghsim worship, which takes place the day after Poush Sankranti. Through interviews with members of this tribal community, it has been revealed how this nature-centric festival, is gradually being forgotten. This essay also explores how, the influence of Christianity during the colonial period and the gradual assimilation with Hinduism in the present day have contributed to the erosion of their unique cultural identity. And also, I have provided a detailed description of the Maghsim festival and examined its deep-rooted connection with nature.