Ranchi: Mahavir Mandal Hinoo Tengra Toli, one of Ranchi’s oldest akharas, celebrated its centenary year with a grand Ram Navami procession on Friday.The procession, which featured elaborate tableaux, devotional music and cultural performances, attracted large crowds. Devotees, local residents and participants from various areas joined in large numbers as groups of trained performers demonstrated traditional martial arts, including stick-fighting, sword drills and coordinated formations.
Participants, often referred to as khiladi, came from different parts of Ranchi and nearby districts. Many of them have been training since childhood in local akharas.“These performers regularly take part in district and state-level competitions, with some even representing Jharkhand at national platforms. Their synchronised routines and physical endurance remain a key attraction of Ram Navami processions, reflecting a blend of devotion and martial tradition passed down through generations,” said former president of the outfit, Anil Sharma.Current president R N Dwivedi emphasised the importance of preserving this legacy. “Our focus has always been on discipline and training. Many of our players start young and go on to compete at higher levels. This procession is not just about celebration, but about showcasing years of dedication and cultural tradition,” he said.
