Sarna Adidharma is not merely a religion but the spiritual and cultural cornerstone of the Adivasi communities in Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and West Bengal. It is a nature-based faith system that is distinct from Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam, and it forms the very identity of millions of tribal people.
Sarna's philosophy is rooted in pantheism, the belief that divinity is inherent in all things. The entire universe, especially the natural world, is seen as sacred and alive with spiritual energy.
1. The Supreme Being: Dharmesh and Sing Bonga
The supreme deity in Sarna is a benevolent, all-powerful creator, revered under various names depending on the specific tribe. The Oraon and Munda tribes call the supreme being Dharmesh, while the Santhals refer to him as Sing Bonga (literally "Sun God"). This deity is not represented by idols, but is believed to be omnipresent, residing in the sun, moon, forests, and rivers. This aniconic (without idols) form of worship is a key distinction from many mainstream religions. The supreme being is considered the "giver of life" and the "upholder of dharma" or righteousness, which is why the religion is also known as "Dharma."
2. Reverence for Mother Earth (Dharti Aayo)
Alongside the supreme creator, Dharti Aayo (Mother Earth) holds an equally significant place in Sarna theology. She is seen as the divine mother, the provider, and the nurturer of all life. Sarna adherents believe that all beings, including humans, are born from her and will return to her. This reverence for Mother Earth fosters a deep sense of environmentalism and ecological consciousness among the Adivasi people.
3. The Sacred Grove (Sarna Sthal or Jaher)
The central place of worship is not a temple but a sacred grove known as a Sarna Sthal or Jaher. These groves are typically a cluster of old trees, with the Sal tree being particularly revered. The Sal tree is considered the embodiment of the supreme spirit, and its blooming during the spring festival of Sarhul is a major religious event. These groves are a physical representation of the interconnectedness of all life and serve as the community's spiritual heart.
4. Rejection of the Varna System and Social Equality
One of the most defining features of Sarna is its complete rejection of the Varna (caste) system. Sarna adherents believe in a deeply egalitarian society where all human beings are equal, regardless of their profession or lineage. This principle is a strong point of contrast with the hierarchical social structures found in Hinduism and is a source of pride for the Adivasi people.
The practices and festivals of Sarna are intrinsically linked to the cycles of nature and the agricultural calendar, fostering a communal way of life.
1. The Role of the Pahan and Community Worship
Religious ceremonies are led by a village priest known as the Pahan (among the Oraon and Munda) or Naike (among the Santhals). The Pahan is chosen by the community and is responsible for performing rituals, communicating with the spirits, and ensuring the well-being of the village. Unlike priests in other religions, the Pahan's role is not about personal gain but about serving the community. Worship is always communal, bringing the entire village together in shared spiritual expression.
Sarhul: This is the most significant Sarna festival, celebrated in the spring (March-April). Sarhul literally means "worship of the Sal tree." It marks the new year and is a celebration of the arrival of spring, new life, and prosperity. During this festival, the Pahan performs rituals in the sacred grove, and the entire community sings and dances, celebrating the regeneration of nature. The offering of new fruits and flowers to the deities symbolizes a deep gratitude for nature's bounty.
Karma: Celebrated during the monsoon season (August-September), Karma is a harvest festival that honors the earth and the growth of crops. It is also a festival of friendship and sisterhood. The ritual involves planting a branch of the Karam tree in the village and performing a series of dances and songs around it throughout the night. It is a symbol of fertility and the close bond between the community and the natural world.
Sohrai: This festival is celebrated after the harvest (November-December) to honor domesticated animals, particularly cattle, which are essential for farming. It is a festival of gratitude for the animals' contribution to human life. The cattle are washed, decorated with flowers and colors, and worshipped, highlighting the deep respect the Adivasi people have for all living beings.
The demand for a separate Sarna religious code is the most significant political and social issue for the Adivasi communities. It is a movement for cultural self-preservation and recognition.
Currently, the Indian census recognizes only six major religions: Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Sarna followers are forced to identify as 'Hindu' or choose the 'other' category. This has two major negative consequences:
It inflates the Hindu population count, masking the true numbers of Sarna adherents.
It leads to a gradual loss of distinct tribal identity and cultural practices, as younger generations may see themselves as a subset of a larger religion rather than a people with a unique and ancient faith.
The demand for a separate Sarna code has been ongoing for decades. It gained significant momentum in recent years, culminating in the Jharkhand Assembly passing a unanimous resolution in 2020 requesting the Union government to introduce a separate code in the census. This demand is not about creating a new religion but about officially recognizing an ancient one that has existed for millennia.
The recognition of a Sarna code would provide the following benefits:
It would legally protect the distinct identity, customs, and practices of the Adivasi communities.
It would allow for more accurate demographic data, enabling the government to formulate targeted policies for tribal welfare.
Most importantly, it would give the Adivasi people a sense of pride and belonging, affirming their unique spiritual and cultural heritage.
Conclusion
Sarna Adidharma is a profound and ancient religion that embodies a deep respect for nature and a commitment to communal harmony and social equality. It is a faith system that is inextricably linked to the land, the forests, and the very existence of the Adivasi people. For the JPSC Mains examination, a thorough understanding of Sarna's theological principles, its socio-cultural festivals, and the political movement for its recognition is crucial. Sarna is not just a subject of academic study; it is a living tradition that represents the enduring spirit and identity of Jharkhand's indigenous population.