In a vibrant celebration of Chhattisgarh’s rich tribal heritage, Union Home Minister Amit Shah attended the grand finale of the divisional-level Bastar Pandum 2026 at Lalbagh Maidan. The event showcased an stunning array of tribal traditions, drawing the minister’s deep admiration.
Shah meticulously toured numerous stalls, immersing himself in the everyday artifacts, handicrafts, and artistic expressions that define tribal life in Bastar. From Dhokra metal casting and terracotta pottery to intricate wood carvings, sisal art, bamboo and iron crafts, he examined each with keen interest. Tribal attire, jewelry, Tumba art, paintings, forest medicines, local cuisines, and folk art pieces left him spellbound.
‘Bastar’s culture is the living soul of India,’ Shah declared, underscoring the profound cultural significance of the region. The exhibition highlighted traditional costumes and ornaments of tribes like Dandami Maria, Abujhmaria, Muria, Bhatera, and Halba, bringing their vibrant world to life through paintings depicting tribal existence, nature, and customs.
A special demonstration by a vaidyaraj showcased forest-based herbal remedies, while food stalls tantalized with authentic dishes such as Jondhri Lai laddus, Mandia Pej, Amat, Chapda chutney, Kulthi dal, Pan Bobo, Teekhur, alongside beverages like Landa and Salphi.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai emphasized that Bastar Pandum serves as a powerful platform to preserve and pass down tribal culture to future generations. The state government remains committed to safeguarding these arts, crafts, and traditions.
The highlight was the honoring of winners from the Bastar Pandum 2026 competitions. In tribal dance, Budhram Sodhi from Dantewada clinched top honors with Gaur Maria dance. Palanar Dal from Dantewada excelled in tribal songs, while Lekham Lakha from Sukma won in tribal drama. Rajau Manddi and team from Kondera shone in tribal instruments, Gunjan Naag from Sukma in tribal attire, Sudni Dugga from Narayanpur in jewelry, Omprakash Gavde of Koya Arts from Kanker in crafts, Deepak Jurri from Kanker in paintings, Bhairam Baba group led by Urmila Pradhan from Bijapur in beverages, Tarabati from Dantewada in cuisine, Uttam Naik from Kondera in regional literature, and Rajdev Baghel from Bastar in forest medicines.
This event not only celebrated Bastar’s cultural mosaic but also reinforced the nation’s dedication to its indigenous roots, promising continued support for these timeless traditions.