Happy Couple – A Moment of Pure Joy Amid Culture and Celebration

 

Happy Couple – A Moment of Pure Joy Amid Culture and Celebration

Text & Photo by: Ashok Karan
ashokkaran.blogspot.com

While covering a religious procession in the heart of Ranchi at Firayalal Chowk, I came across a striking and heartwarming sight—a young tribal couple dancing with unfiltered joy, fully immersed in the celebration around them. Their attire and energy suggested they were from Chadri, a nearby locality known for its hardworking, humble residents.

Despite their modest background, their happiness was pure and infectious—like 24-carat gold. The young woman radiated joy as she danced hand in hand with her partner, embodying the spirit of the festival and the richness of their shared bond.

Festivals such as Sarhul, Karam, Bhagta Parab, Sohrai, and Bandana are vital to the cultural fabric of Jharkhand. These celebrations reflect the deep-rooted traditions, beliefs, and heritage of the region’s diverse tribal communities. During Sarhul, for instance, vibrant processions fill Ranchi’s streets with color, rhythm, and unity. Young boys and girls dance together with traditional instruments like Dhol, Nagada, Turhi, Bansuri, Singa, and Arbansi, echoing folk songs that have been passed down through generations.

The couple’s carefree dancing reflected something deeper than celebration—it reflected a strong, emotionally intelligent partnership. Happy couples, especially in marginalized communities, often demonstrate powerful resilience. Their relationships are built on trust, communication, mutual respect, and an unwavering commitment to each other’s well-being.

Their story reminded me of Dashrath Manjhi, the legendary "Mountain Man" of Gehlaur village in Bihar, who carved a path through a hill using just a hammer and chisel over 22 years in memory of his beloved wife, Phaguni. Love like this—selfless, enduring, and deeply rooted—is often found in the simplest lives.

In tribal culture, love, laughter, and life are celebrated through dance and music. Forms like Jhumair, performed during the harvest, bring communities together in circular formations to the beats of Mandar, Dhol, and flute. The Karma dance, popular among Kharwar, Gond, Oraon, and other tribes, lights up the autumn season with synchronized steps and cultural pride.

Another unique tradition is the Domkach dance, performed by women during weddings in Jharkhand and parts of Bihar. With the men off to attend the "barat" (wedding procession), women dress up like men and spend the night singing satirical songs and dancing. It's both a form of protection and a celebration of female strength, humor, and unity.

And let’s not forget the Nagpuri folk dance, where both families—bride’s and groom’s—dance holding each other by the waist, singing and rejoicing in the union of two souls.

Such expressions of joy and love are timeless. The couple I saw in Ranchi may not have material wealth, but they are rich in spirit, love, and tradition.

Wishing them a life as vibrant as the festivals of Jharkhand—full of color, connection, and endless celebration.

📸 In Picture: A tribal couple dances joyfully on the streets of Ranchi during a religious procession.

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