For the First Time, Women Take Charge of Festival Security at Dalma’s Sendra, Introducing a Monumental Cultural Shift
This year’s Sendra festival on May 20 in Dalma witnesses a historic change, with women taking on key security roles, marking a significant shift from traditional practices.
JAMSHEDPUR – The Sendra festival in Dalma this year embraces a revolutionary change as women are designated significant security responsibilities, ensuring the protection of traditional aspects and contributing to the event’s preservation.
The newly implemented role for women was decided by the Dalma Buru Sendra Committee during a meeting held in Gadda under the chairmanship of Dalma Raja Rakesh Hembram.
Concerns about the declining participation in the festival and the threat of its potential discontinuation were key topics of discussion.
Dalma Raja Hembram officially sanctioned women’s participation, emphasizing their critical role in monitoring the festival to maintain its sanctity.
While women will not partake in hunting, their oversight at security checkpoints is intended to uphold safety and order during the festival.
Women from the Sendra Veeron families are specifically tasked with the security of traditional weapons, a move aimed at deterring any disruptions and intervening if needed.
This significant alteration in roles not only enhances security but also signifies a shift towards a more inclusive cultural festival.
This proactive inclusion seeks to ensure the festival’s longevity and address the issues of harassment previously faced by Sendra warriors, thereby preserving the cultural heritage for future generations.
Approximately five thousand tribals are expected to attend the festival, engaging in various cultural activities within the scenic Dalma valley.
