New Delhi(SDM):The Centenary Commemoration of the Olchiki Script was celebrated with immense pride and cultural fervor on February 15–16, 2026, marking 100 glorious years of the historic script that has preserved and strengthened the identity of the Santali language.
The two-day grand celebration brought together scholars, writers, cultural activists, students, and members of the Santali community from different regions. The event paid heartfelt tribute to Pandit Raghunath Murmu, the visionary who invented the Olchiki script in 1925 to give Santali language its own written form and cultural foundation.
The program began with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony and floral tributes to Pandit Murmu. Distinguished guests highlighted the historical significance of the script and its contribution to safeguarding indigenous identity, literature, and education. Speakers emphasized how Olchiki has empowered generations by providing a medium for learning, storytelling, and cultural expression.
Various cultural programs added color and vibrancy to the celebration. Traditional Santali dance performances, folk songs, poetry recitations, drama presentations, and literary discussions were organized to showcase the richness of Santali heritage. Young students actively participated in essay competitions, handwriting contests in Olchiki script, and quiz programs centered on Santali history and culture.
Scholars spoke about the journey of the script over the past century—from its early struggles for recognition to its inclusion in academic curricula and wider acceptance across states like Odisha, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. Community leaders reiterated the importance of promoting Olchiki in digital platforms and modern education systems to ensure its continued growth.
The celebration concluded with a collective pledge by participants to preserve, promote, and pass on the Olchiki script to future generations. The centenary event not only honored the legacy of Pandit Raghunath Murmu but also reinforced the unity and cultural pride of the Santali community.
The centenary commemoration stood as a historic milestone, reflecting a century of resilience, identity, and linguistic achievement.
