Negotiating Adivasi Agency: The Sarna Dharma Code in Jharkhand

The relationship between Adivasis and the Indian state has historically been fraught with challenges. On the one hand, they are among the most marginalized communities, often facing land grabs, and lacking access to essential infrastructure like water, food, healthcare, and education. On the other, their cultural and religious identities are increasingly under threat from assimilationist pressures and economic exploitation.

Jharkhand’s history stands as a testament to Adivasi resistance, marked by anti-colonial uprisings in the 19th and 20th centuries and the eventual formation of a “tribal state” in 2000. While much academic focus has been on their socio-economic struggles, the role of religion and spirituality as facets of Adivasi identity has often been overlooked. The Sarna Dharma Code is a significant step in acknowledging these dimensions.

On November 11, 2020, the Jharkhand Legislative Assembly passed a resolution calling for the inclusion of the Sarna Dharma Code in the 2021 national census. The resolution proposed a distinct “religion” box for Adivasis to mark, separate from the broader categories of Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity.

This move came after sustained protests by Adivasi groups across Jharkhand and neighboring states like Odisha and Chhattisgarh, where tribal communities, including the Santhal, Munda, Oraon, and Ho, predominantly practice Sarnaism. These efforts underscore the community’s demand for equality and recognition in India’s religious and political landscape.

What is Sarna?

The word Sarna originates from the Mundari language, meaning sacred grove, a site of spiritual significance for Adivasi communities. Sarna is not just a place but a belief system deeply rooted in nature worship. Adivasis revere Jal, Jungle, and Zameen (Water, Forest, and Land), viewing them as the core of their existence. Their faith includes worship of natural elements like mountains, waterfalls, and forests, symbolizing harmony between humans and the environment. The sacred Sal tree, often found in Sarna groves, holds special importance in their rituals. Sarna followers believe in Dharmesh, the supreme deity, and their prayers are directed at maintaining ecological balance and community well-being.

The Journey of Sarna Dharam Code

The demand for a Sarna Dharam Code has its roots in the desire for recognition of Adivasi religious identity, distinct from Hinduism, Christianity, or Islam. For decades, tribal leaders and activists have fought for this recognition.

• Pre-Independence Era: The foundations of the Sarna movement were laid when Adivasis began resisting efforts of conversion and assimilation into mainstream religions. Leaders like Jaipal Singh Munda, who played a vital role in the creation of Jharkhand, emphasized the need to protect tribal identity.
• Post-Independence Developments: With the census categorizing Adivasis under the broader Hindu category, the demand for a distinct code gained momentum. In 2011, census data revealed that nearly 50 lakh Adivasis identified as followers of Sarna, but lacked a separate religious category.
• Political Movements: The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has been instrumental in championing the Sarna Dharam Code. In 2020, the JMM government passed a resolution in the Jharkhand Assembly and sent it to the central government, demanding inclusion of the Sarna Code in the national census.

The Role of RSS and Its Affiliates

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and its affiliates have taken a dual approach towards the Sarna Dharam Code.

• On one hand, they oppose the demand, arguing that a separate code could fragment the Hindu identity and pave the way for conversions to Christianity or Islam.
• On the other hand, organizations like the Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, an affiliate of the RSS, focus on integrating Adivasis into Hinduism by promoting cultural and religious ties, often equating Sarna practices with ancient Hindu traditions.
• Despite this, many Adivasi leaders view the RSS’s interventions as attempts to dilute their distinct cultural identity, strengthening their resolve for a separate code.

Why the Sarna Dharam Code Matters

The Sarna Dharam Code holds immense significance for Adivasis, as it seeks to preserve their unique religious practices and traditions.

• Recognizing a Significant Population: More than 50 lakh people across India follow the Sarna Dharam Code, with large communities settled in Jharkhand, Odisha, southern Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Assam, and West Bengal. These communities, though not directly counted as Sarna followers in the 2011 Census due to the absence of a specific column for it, chose to identify themselves under other categories, reflecting their desire for a distinct identity.
• Preventing Conversions: A separate code reinforces the community’s identity and reduces the likelihood of conversions to Christianity or Islam, which often occur due to socio-economic pressures.
• Cultural Preservation: It helps protect the rituals, festivals, and practices that are central to the Sarna faith, ensuring these traditions are passed down to future generations.
• Political Recognition: Official acknowledgment of the Sarna faith strengthens Adivasis’ claims to resources, reservations, and representation, empowering them politically and socially.

The Role of Women in the Sarna Movement

Adivasi women are the backbone of the Sarna faith and the movement for its recognition.

• Custodians of Tradition: Women lead rituals and prayers, especially at sacred Sarna groves, and play a vital role in preserving the faith.
• Challenging Gender Bias: Despite facing historical exclusions, women have emerged as spiritual leaders, participating actively in ceremonies and community decision-making.
• Environmental Advocates: Women take the lead in conserving sacred groves, planting trees, and advocating sustainable practices that align with Sarna principles.
• Protest Leaders: From local demonstrations to national-level protests, women have been at the forefront, advocating for the Sarna Code and community rights.

Impact on Adivasi Rights and Identity

The recognition of the Sarna Dharam Code has far-reaching implications for Adivasi rights and identity.

• Strengthening Identity: A separate religious code underscores the distinct cultural and spiritual identity of Adivasis, ensuring it is not subsumed under other religions.
• Legal and Constitutional Protections: It enhances legal recognition of Adivasis’ practices, paving the way for stronger constitutional safeguards for their lands, forests, and traditions.
• Empowerment: With recognition, Adivasis gain greater visibility and representation, enabling them to better advocate for their rights and resources.

The Sarna Dharam Code is more than a demand for religious recognition; it is a movement to safeguard Adivasi identity, culture, and rights in a rapidly modernizing world. It represents their fight against assimilation, cultural erasure, and socio-political marginalization. By acknowledging their faith, the code also affirms the significance of their harmonious relationship with nature and their unique worldview. The journey of the Sarna Dharam Code is intertwined with the aspirations of millions of Adivasis, and its recognition is a step towards justice, equality, and respect for India’s indigenous communities.