A grand confluence of tribal culture, tradition and faith was seen on the land of Bastar in Chhattisgarh when the divisional level Bastar Pandum was inaugurated by President Draupadi Murmu at the historic Lalbagh ground of Jagdalpur. On this occasion, the cultural heritage of Bastar came on the stage with full splendor. The President observed 12 traditional forms of Bastar Pandum and enjoyed the traditional dances of Bastar.
He also watched the Malkhamb performance of Abujhmad area and appreciated the talent of the artists. The 12 genres of tribals included traditional dance, folk songs, customs, musical instruments, crafts, traditional cuisine, tribal costumes, painting, regional literature, tribal drama, jewellery, beverages and forest medicines, in which a total of 705 participants participated.
President said- ‘Peace is returning in Bastar’
Giving the traditional greeting at the beginning of his address, President Draupadi Murmu said, ‘Jai Johar, Jai Devi Danteshwari, Jai Syan-Sajan. He is very happy to be in Bastar Pandum and Bastar feels like his home.’
While paying tribute to the heroes of Bastar, he praised the art, culture and traditional cuisine of this place. The President said that Chhattisgarh is a very culturally rich state, where the tribal society keeps the tradition of mass festivals alive.
He described Bastar Pandum as a folk festival related to seasonal change and said that this year the participation of more than 50 thousand people shows the widespread acceptance of this event. He praised the state government for this effort. President Draupadi Murmu also said in his address that peace is now returning in this area which was affected by violence for four decades.
A large number of people are surrendering and expressing faith in the democratic system. Welcoming those who surrendered, he called upon the youth to embrace education and move forward in the mainstream. He described Bastar’s natural resources, tourism possibilities and efforts like home-stay as a strong basis for employment.
Bastar will be free from Naxalism on time: Vishnudev Sai
Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai said that Bastar Pandum is not just a cultural event but is a reflection of the philosophy of life of the tribal society. He said that Bastar is not just a land of forests, but also a land of traditions, rituals and art.
The Chief Minister said that while last year there were 6 genres, this year 12 genres have been included in Bastar Pandum. More than 54 thousand artists have registered. The Chief Minister said that where earlier there was the shadow of fear and Maoist violence, now trust and development have taken place.
He said that the aim of the government is to completely connect the affected areas with the mainstream within the stipulated time frame. He also said that now in Bastar, instead of the sound of bullets, school bells are being heard and the youth are getting a new direction due to the rehabilitation policy.
