President Droupadi Murmu marked the 100th anniversary of the Ol Chiki script by stressing the vital importance of preserving tribal languages, culture, and traditional knowledge. The landmark event, held in Jharkhand’s East Singhbhum district, celebrated the legacy of Pandit Raghunath Murmu and his creation, the Ol Chiki script, which has been instrumental in fostering Santhali cultural pride and identity.
During the festivities at the Dishom Jaherthan complex, President Murmu began her address with a Santhali Nehor prayer, a song learned in her youth that invokes Mother Nature for guidance. She delivered her main speech entirely in Santhali, conveying the deep emotional significance of her presence at the sacred site. The President commended the ongoing dedication of Santhali writers and social activists in their continuous work to protect and promote the Ol Chiki script and the Santhali language.
President Murmu applauded the Union government’s recent publication of the Constitution of India in the Ol Chiki script, calling it a historic step towards linguistic inclusion. She advocated for governance that effectively communicates laws and administrative information to citizens in their mother tongues. The celebration also included the felicitation of 12 individuals recognized for their substantial contributions to Santhali language and literary development. State officials present reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the unique identity and rich heritage of tribal communities.