Droupadi Murmu addressed the International Santhal Conference in Santiniketan, expressing disappointment over the absence of key political figures.
“I did not know if Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee was ‘angry’ with her.”
These words from Droupadi Murmu, India’s first tribal President, encapsulated the tension surrounding her recent visit to Santiniketan on March 7, 2026. Speaking at the International Santhal Conference held at Visva-Bharati University, Murmu expressed her disappointment over the absence of West Bengal’s Chief Minister and senior ministers during this significant event.
The International Santhal Conference aimed to celebrate and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Santhal community. However, the venue for the conference was shifted at the last minute due to a lack of permission, adding to the challenges faced by the organizers. Murmu’s remarks highlighted the importance of political representation and respect for constitutional offices, as she stated, “Protocol is not a matter of political convenience. It reflects respect for constitutional offices.”
Murmu’s presence in Santiniketan was not only a political statement but also a cultural one, as the town is deeply connected to India’s artistic legacy. Nandalal Bose, a prominent figure in Indian art, staged a visual coup at a political gathering in Haripura, Gujarat, in 1938, creating 77 posters that depicted the life of the soil for the masses. These panels, which are now regarded as significant works of art, will be on display at the National Gallery of Modern Art from March 9 to April 9, 2026.
As Murmu spoke, the legacy of Nandalal Bose loomed large. His belief that art should be as common as the air we breathe resonates with the themes of the conference. Bose aimed to decolonize the Indian mind through his works, a mission that continues to inspire artists and cultural leaders today. Nidhi Choudhari, a curator involved in the upcoming exhibition titled ‘Colours of Swades,’ remarked, “Technology is a tool of interpretation. It helps visitors step closer into the world Bose imagined.” This exhibition employs Artificial Intelligence to reinterpret Bose’s works, bridging the gap between traditional art and modern technology.
The juxtaposition of Murmu’s political role and the cultural significance of Santiniketan underscores the ongoing dialogue between governance and heritage. As the first tribal President, her presence at the conference symbolizes a recognition of marginalized communities and their contributions to India’s diverse cultural tapestry.
Despite the challenges faced during her visit, Murmu’s speech served as a reminder of the importance of unity and representation in the political landscape. The absence of key political figures was noted not only by Murmu but also by attendees who expected a show of solidarity from the state’s leadership.
As the International Santhal Conference continues, the discussions and outcomes will likely shape future engagements between the government and indigenous communities. The legacy of Nandalal Bose and the vibrant culture of Santiniketan remain pivotal in these conversations, fostering a deeper understanding of India’s artistic and political heritage.
