August 9, 2026, Holy Cross PU College, Whitefield
More than 5,000 migrant workers gathered at Holy Cross PU College in Whitefield on August 9, 2026, to celebrate the World Indigenous Day. Organized by the Department of Labour Migration, ISI-B, the event provided a platform for Adivasi communities to reconnect with their cultural roots, celebrate their identity, and foster solidarity while living away from their native states.
The programme was honoured by the presence of Miss Brinda Adige as the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, she highlighted the importance of the Adivasi ethos of Jal, Jangal, and Jamin (water, forest, and land). She urged the migrant workforce to preserve their heritage and remain united, reminding them to utilize support networks like ISI-B during times of distress. Fr. Samir Minj echoed these sentiments, noting that a united community is better equipped to navigate the challenges of urban migration. He encouraged the migrants to cherish and carry forward their rich tribal culture, traditions and identity wherever they live.
The event featured a range of cultural and community showcases:
Cultural Performances: The tribal migrant participants, in their traditional attire participated in the gathering and performed tribal dances creating an atmosphere of happiness and pride, adding beauty and joy to the celebration.
Talent Showcases: A traditional Adivasi fashion show and a bodybuilding show further added excitement and enthusiasm to the programme. Their creativity and talents portraited different aspects of traditional culture demonstrating creativity, confidence, capabilities and possibilities of migrant communities.
Entrepreneurship: The migrants also set up stalls to sell traditional Adivasi food and cultural products, which provided them with an opportunity to share their rich heritage while gaining practical experience in small-scale entrepreneurship.
Community Recognition: A good number of tribal migrant leaders and Adivasi social media content creators were present on this occasion and were honoured for their advocacy and grassroots support. This recognition encouraged them to continue developing their talents and to use their skills to inspire and support the wider migrant community.
Beyond cultural celebration, the gathering served a practical administrative purpose. A dedicated desk led by Calvin Dias facilitated on-the-spot registrations for the e-Shram Card and Ayushman Bharat, connecting migrant workers with critical government welfare services.
A very special thanks to Holy Cross PU College, Whitefield, for generously providing its beautiful campus and hall for the celebration and for supporting the migrant community in making the event possible.
The Indigenous Day celebration was more than a cultural programme. It was a powerful expression of identity, unity, dignity and solidarity. For thousands of migrants living away from their native land, the gathering reminded them that their culture and traditions remain an important part of who they are. The celebration strengthened community bonds and encouraged migrants to preserve their rich Adivasi heritage while building a meaningful life in the city.
Supported by ISI-B representatives Fr. Rakesh Bara and Fr. Francis Balraj, alongside the host venue Holy Cross PU College, the event successfully merged cultural preservation with practical community welfare for Bengaluru’s Adivasi diaspora.
Samir Minj
Head, Dept of Labour Migration