Beginning her speech with the traditional tribal greeting of ‘Johar’ to ending it with a poem by famous Odia saint Bhim Bhoi, President Droupadi Murmu’s address liberally invoked India’s tribal legacy.
Recalling her growing up years in a small tribal village where even getting primary education was like a dream, she said her election had the blessings of the poor of the country and reflected the dreams and potential of crores of women and daughters of the country.
In her 18-minute speech at Parliament’s Central Hall after assuming office, Ms. Murmu highlighted the glorious contribution to the country’s freedom struggle by tribal communities and mentioned Santhal, Paika, Kol and Bhil revolutions that happened in various regions.
