The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated Aadi Mahotsav, the mega National Tribal Festival at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in Delhi on 16 February 2023.
- Aadi Mahotsav is an attempt to showcase tribal culture on the national stage and it celebrates the spirit of tribal culture, crafts, cuisine, commerce and traditional art.
- It is an annual initiative of the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation Limited (TRIFED) under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
- The Prime Minister highlighted the prestigious tableau of the tribal societies of India and expressed delight at getting the opportunity to witness the various flavours, colours, adornments, traditions, art and art forms, delicacies and music.
- On the occasion Prime Minister was presented with several gift items which included Pashmina Wool from from Ladakh; Patchitra painting; Dhokara Sculpture from Chattisgarh and Shree Anna basket. The Prime Minister was also welcomed with a traditional headgear from Tripura.
- On the occasion, there were numerous dance performances that oozed with energy and vibrancy.
- Choreographed by dancer Rani Khanum, the performance included Bagurumba of Assam, Panthi Dance of Chhattisgarh, Gusadi of Telangana, Baiga Pardhauni of Madhya Pradesh, Tamang Selo of Sikkim, Siddhi Dhamal of Gujarat, Purulia Chhau of West Bengal, and Harul dance of Uttarakhand (Harul nritya).
