CONRAD DIAS
Ranchi, March 22: Dr. Ram Dayal Munda Tribal Welfare Research Institute in Ranchi is conducting research on Tana Bhagats, an Oraon community who are related to the historical Tana Bhagat Movement.
Ranendra Kumar, Director at Dr. Ram Dayal Munda Tribal Welfare Research Institute has said that the research is being done to find out where the community currently stands in the poverty index.
“We want to know what the current status of the community is, their professions, their literacy, employment and what is done to develop their skills. We also like to see where they stand in the socio-economic index,” he said.
The research is being conducted by Dr. Ramesh Sharan, former Vice Chancellor of Vinoba Bhave University.
Tana Bhagats were formed by Oraon saints Jatra Bhagat and Turia Bhagat. Jatra Bhagat of Gumla proclaimed that he was divinely ordained to establish a new sect known as the Tana sect, which was different from the Oraon community.
The Tanas sought to reorder the Oraon society by opposing the traditional leadership of the pahan (Oraon priest) and mahto (village representative in secular affairs). They also rejected the practices of spirit worship and sacrifice. In its earlier phase, it was called Kurukh Dharma.
“Tana Bhagats are one of the most important tribal communities in Jharkhand and the research which we are conducting will help the community in future. The community is currently known for their historical background and movement but what’s important is what is being done in order to provide them with basic education and other facilities. The research will make a lot of things clear,” the Director added.
