For Santals (one of the indigenous tribes of Odisha), the interaction with forests is not just a matter of livelihood but has a spiritual and cultural connect. The Bahabanga festival is more than just a celebration; it is a time when the Santal community aligns their practices with the natural world. It is only after this festival concludes that the community begins to collect sal and mahua flowers—resources that are crucial for their sustenance and livelihoods(Sahoo, 2024). This deliberate timing is a reflection of the community’s deep respect for nature’s cycles. By waiting until the festival’s end, they ensure that their harvesting practices do not disrupt the ecosystem, allowing the plants to regenerate and thrive.

This tradition demonstrates a key principle of conservation: sustainability. The Santal community’s approach to harvesting ensures that they take only what is needed, and in a manner that allows for the continued health of the forest. It is a practice that has been honed over generations, passed down through stories, rituals, and communal knowledge