UditVani, Jamshedpur: The third day of Samvaad 2025 unfolded with powerful narratives of collaboration, leadership and community-led governance as tribal changemakers from across the country came together to build on the discussions initiated on November 15.
The morning opened with thoughtful sessions across diverse themes.
The Art and Handicrafts dialogue explored the deeper nuances of traditional craftsmanship, while participants in the Tribal Healing Practices forum shared insights into indigenous diagnostic and therapeutic knowledge.
Discussions at Akhra reflected on tribal social governance structures and their relevance to mainstream development pathways.
Meanwhile, ‘Samuday ke Saath’ showcased stories aimed at inspiring young filmmakers and encouraging fresh perspectives.
A key highlight of the day was the signing of a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Tata Steel Foundation and The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL).
The agreement, signed in the presence of Sourav Roy, Chief Executive Officer, Tata Steel Foundation, and Sireesha Chandana, VP, IHCL, renews and expands a longstanding partnership focused on promoting India’s rich and diverse tribal cuisines.
Since the collaboration began in 2017, the tribal cuisines initiative has engaged 440 home cooks from 52 tribes across 21 regions.
The renewed partnership will focus on three strategic pillars—Capacity Building and Skill Development, Mainstreaming Tribal Cuisine, and Culinary Storytelling and Documentation.
The objective is to preserve India’s indigenous gastronomic heritage while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities by co-developing authentic culinary experiences with tribal communities.
Commenting on the partnership, Sourav Roy said:
“Samvaad has once again shown us that meaningful progress emerges from learning with humility from the lived wisdom of tribal communities. Today’s conversations—rooted in healing traditions, art, governance and food—demonstrate how collaboration can open new pathways for shared growth. Our renewed partnership with IHCL marks another step in this journey. By helping tribal cooks bring their culinary talent to wider audiences, we aim to strengthen both livelihoods and the dignity of the home cooks who carry this heritage forward.”
The cultural spirit of Samvaad 2025 shone brightly in the evening, with enthralling performances by the Ho, Garo, Kuki and Kandhan tribes.
The audience was also captivated by the vibrant soundscape of Summersalt from the Khasi Hills, alongside soulful renditions by Garima Ekka and Arjun Lakra.
Throughout the day, visitors flocked to Aatithya, the tribal food pop-up that continues to serve indigenous dishes and long-forgotten flavours.
The Art & Handicrafts and Traditional Healing kiosks at Gopal Maidan also enjoyed widespread appreciation for their authenticity and range.
The food pop-up remains open daily from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm, with select items available for delivery on Zomato.
Samvaad 2025 will continue over the next two days, bringing thousands together to celebrate cultural identity, collective wisdom and the enduring spirit of India’s indigenous communities.
