Bhubaneswar: A strong wave of cultural assertion echoed through Lokaseba Bhawan in Bhubaneswar as the lawmakers of Mayurbhanj district gathered to champion the identity of their indigenous roots.
Led by Shri Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia, Minister for Forest, Environment, and Climate Change, the delegation met with Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi to submit a crucial memorandum. The core appeal centers on granting constitutional recognition to the Ho language by securing its inclusion in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India.
The Ho language is an ancient, melodious tongue belonging to the Austroasiatic Munda language family. It is primarily spoken by the Ho tribal community, alongside closely related indigenous groups such as the Munda, Kolha, and Kol communities.
Etymologically, the very word Ho translates to human being, reflecting a deep-seated philosophy that centers on humanity and a harmonious bond with nature.
While Mayurbhanj district serves as a vibrant heartland and major cultural hub for Ho speakers in Odisha, the language echoes beyond its borders.
It is widely spoken across Keonjhar and Sundargarh districts in Odisha, as well as the adjoining Kolhan region of Jharkhand, particularly West Singhbhum and East Singhbhum, extending into parts of West Bengal and Assam.
A fascinating aspect of the Ho language lies in its distinctive script, known as Warang Chiti, created by the revered tribal scholar and reformer Lako Bodra in the twentieth century.
Unlike many indigenous oral traditions, Ho possesses its own dedicated system of writing, complete with unique phonetic characters that reflect the acoustic rhythm of forest life.
By presenting the memorandum, the delegation highlighted that official inclusion in the Eighth Schedule will unlock government support, safeguard indigenous literature, allow the language to flourish in academic institutions, and give millions of tribal citizens a proud voice on the national stage.
The meeting marks a momentous step toward preserving the rich oral histories, folklore, and linguistic heritage nestled in the hills and forests of Eastern India.