President Droupadi Murmu Dance with Santhali Women in a Heartwarming Homecoming to Her Village

Bhubaneswar/Rairangpur: In a rare and deeply touching moment, President Droupadi Murmu, the first tribal woman to hold India’s highest constitutional office, broke protocol to join the Santhali women of her village in an exuberant folk dance during her visit to Uparbeda in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district.
The President, who is on a five-day visit to Odisha, returned to her birthplace for the first time since assuming office. The occasion was nothing short of a grand homecoming, filled with emotion, nostalgia, and cultural pride.
Upon her arrival in Uparbeda, the President’s journey was steeped in sentiment. She began by visiting her alma mater, the Government Upper Primary School, where she was warmly welcomed by teachers and students. Her presence inspired the young minds as she interacted with them, reflecting her enduring connection to her roots. From there, she made her way to the village deity’s shrine, offering prayers with humility and gratitude. The village, adorned with vibrant Rangoli designs on the roads and freshly painted houses, seemed to pulsate with joy and anticipation of her visit.
The highlight of the day came as President Murmu reached her ancestral home. Santhali women, dressed in their traditional attire, performed a mesmerizing folk dance, accompanied by the melodious tunes of Santali songs. In a moment that symbolized her profound bond with her heritage, the President stepped forward, breaking protocol, and joined the dancers. The sight of India’s President, immersed in the rhythm of her culture, drew cheers and applause from the villagers who surrounded her with admiration and pride.
This gesture, both spontaneous and heartfelt, underscored President Murmu’s humility and her unwavering connection to her roots. It was more than just a dance; it was a celebration of identity, a tribute to her people, and a reminder of the power of cultural heritage.
President Murmu’s visit to Uparbeda was not just a return to her birthplace but a poignant celebration of her journey from the humble lanes of a tribal village to Rashtrapati Bhavan, inspiring countless others across the nation.