Sela Parv: Van Gujjars Celebrate Forest, Culture & Solidarity

The Van Gujjars, a semi-nomadic pastoral community of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and
Himachal Pradesh, honoured their deep bond with the forest through Sela Parv (meaning
green in Gojri)—a tree plantation and cultural festival held from July 20–30 across the three
states.

Organised by the Van Gujjar Tribal Yuva Sangathan (VGTYS) with support from Kalpavriksh
and others, the festival featured the planting of native saplings, forest walks, traditional
bainth songs, and rituals symbolising their pastoral way of life. Thousands participated,
including Hon’ble Justice Manoj Kumar Tiwari, forest officials, students, and members of the
Tharu tribe—reflecting growing solidarity and recognition of indigenous ecological
stewardship.

Amid eviction threats, Sela Parv has become more than a festival—it is an ecological
movement, affirming that conservation has always been a way of life for the Van Gujjars.