CM Majhi Honors Ol Chiki Centenary, Celebrates Pandit Raghunath Murmu’s Legacy
Keonjhar, Odisha – Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi joined the centenary celebrations of the Ol Chiki script, paying tribute to its creator Pandit Raghunath Murmu, hailed as a visionary who gave the Santali community identity, dignity, and education.
Speaking at Silisuan, Majhi described Murmu as “a movement, a consciousness, an institution, and a symbol of Santali pride.” The Ol Chiki script, invented in 1925, marked a turning point in cultural revival, enabling Santali literature, education, and social empowerment.
Murmu’s contributions extended beyond the script. He authored plays, songs, textbooks, and folk literature, launched the weekly magazine Sagen Sakam, and established the Baba Tilka Majhi Library and the Tribal Socio-Educational and Cultural Association.
His tireless efforts spread Ol Chiki across Odisha, West Bengal, and Bihar.
The Chief Minister highlighted milestones in Santali recognition, including its inclusion in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution in 2003.
Today, Santali is taught in schools and universities across tribal-dominated regions, strengthening cultural identity and academic growth.
Majhi also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting other tribal languages such as Ho, Mundari, Gadaba, Kui, and Oraon.
The centenary event drew participants from diverse tribal communities, underscoring the importance of indigenous scripts in preserving heritage and fostering inclusive development.
