150 Tribals Reconvert to Hinduism in Ghar Wapsi Event in Gujarat’s Narmada District

Around 150 tribal individuals who had earlier converted to Christianity reconverted to Hinduism during a ‘Ghar Wapsi’ programme held in Gujarat’s Narmada district, amid ongoing discussions around religious conversions in the state’s tribal belt.

The event involved participants from Dediapada, Chikda and Sagbara areas. Organisers associated with tribal and religious groups stated that the reconversions followed counselling sessions and community outreach initiatives conducted over several weeks.

According to representatives of tribal organisations, some individuals had earlier adopted Christianity due to external influence and later expressed a desire to return to their ancestral faith. They claimed that awareness efforts were undertaken to explain traditional customs, cultural identity, and religious practices before the event was organised.

A representative from Rashtriya Adivasi Manch said that conversions in parts of the Narmada district have been occurring for some time, and that many tribals later felt they were not fully informed while making the decision. He added that religious awareness groups, saints, and local community members jointly engaged with families before the reconversion ceremony held on December 22.

Political reactions followed the event. A local legislator said that tribal communities have historically identified with their indigenous traditions, even though individuals today follow different religious paths. Another parliamentarian from the region stated that tribal culture has long been linked with Hindu customs and practices.

The district administration, however, clarified that no formal complaints related to forced religious conversions have been registered so far in Narmada district.