A Global Tribute at World Indigenous Day 2024
On World Indigenous Day 2024, Johargram hosted a truly captivating Tribal fashion show, a vivid tribute to the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous communities around the world. The event was a feast for the senses, showcasing traditional textiles from tribes across the globe and offering an intimate glimpse into the unique artistry and traditions that define these communities. While the show embraced a global perspective, it also shone a spotlight on the diverse regional traditions within India, from the North to the South, West to the East, highlighting the vibrant textile diversity that is the country’s pride.
A particularly memorable moment of the evening was the special segment dedicated to Jharkhand, where the state’s Indigenous tribes were honored with a breathtaking display of traditional fabrics and a powerful theatrical performance. This segment was more than just a showcase; it was a heartfelt tribute to Jharkhand’s cultural pride, fostering cross-cultural appreciation and celebrating the timeless traditions of Indigenous peoples around the world.
The event was opened by the respected Dishom Guru Shibu Soren and the Governor of Jharkhand, Sh. Santosh Gangwar, setting a tone of reverence and celebration. The evening reached its pinnacle with the presence of the honorable Chief Minister, Sh. Hemant Soren, accompanied by Tribal Development Minister Sh. Dipak Barua, Hon’ble Minister Sh. Hafizul Hasan, and Hon’ble MLA Kalpana Murmu Soren. Their support, along with that of Shri Kripanand Jha, Secretary of Tribal Welfare, and Shri Ajay Nath Jha, Tribal Welfare Commissioner, underscored the importance of the event.
The choreography of the show was a vibrant expression of the dynamic energy inherent in tribal culture, skillfully blending traditional elements with a contemporary twist. The runway was brought to life by a diverse array of models, each representing different tribal origins from around the world. Their attire, crafted by four esteemed local labels—Jharkhand Rajya Khadi Gramodyog Board, Jharcraft, Jobaha, and the host brand Johargram—showcased the exquisite craftsmanship of tribal textiles, putting the spotlight on these remarkable creations.
Bringing together some of the leading names in the fashion industry, the event was a collaborative masterpiece, involving designers, show directors, fashion choreographers, stylists, and tribal models. The historic Birsa Munda Museum in Ranchi provided the perfect backdrop for this confluence of theatre, art, and music, creating a fitting tribute to the rich heritage of tribal communities.
The theme of this year’s event, ‘Celebration of World and Indian Tribes,’ guided the entire narrative, taking the audience on a deeply moving journey that challenged stereotypes and empowered the global tribal community. The creative direction, led by the visionary Neeraj Gaba, infused the show with a distinctive vision, while DH Franklin’s curation ensured every detail was aesthetically brilliant. Lakmé Academy Ranchi, under the direction of hair and makeup artist Kaajee Rai, added an enchanting touch to the presentation, making it all the more special, as a significant portion of the crew themselves hailed from tribal communities.
