Raipur, July 24, 2025/The traditional festival of Hareli Tihar, carrying the fragrance of Chhattisgarhi folk life, began today in a formal manner at the residence of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai. Chhattisgarh is a state where special types of traditional tools and objects have been used for every occasion and work. On the occasion of Hareli festival, a glimpse of such traditional agricultural implements and garments was seen at the Chief Minister’s residence office, which are invaluable heritage of the rich cultural heritage of Chhattisgarh.
*Katha*
Two round wooden structures were placed on the extreme left, which are called ‘Katha’. In the olden days, when the practice of scales and weights was not prevalent in the villages for weighing paddy, paddy was measured with Katha. Generally, about four kilos of paddy comes in one Katha. Paddy was measured with Katha and payment was made in the form of wages.
*Khumri*
A circular structure made of thin bamboo slats, dyed in pink color and adorned with cowries, to protect the head from sun and rain, is called ‘Khumri’. It is usually worn on the head by cowherds who graze cows. In the past, shepherds used to go out to graze animals with a ‘Kamra’ (raincoat) and Khumri. ‘Kamra’ was a thick blanket-like cloth made of jute fiber, which was used to protect from rain.
*Kansi Ki Dori*
This string is made from the stem of a plant called ‘Kansi’. Earlier it was used as ‘Nivar’ for weaving cots or cots. The process of making the string is called ‘Dori Aantna’. Kansi plants grow on the ridges of the fields at the beginning of the rainy season, whose stems are cut and the string is made. This string is useful for strong weaving that lasts for years.
*Jhanpi*
A large, round wooden structure with a lid is called ‘Jhanpi’. It was used as an alternative to a bag or box in Chhattisgarh in ancient times. It was especially used to keep the groom’s clothes, make-up items, dishes, etc. during the procession in wedding ceremonies. It is a strong structure made of bamboo wood, which remains safe for many years.
*Kalari*
‘Kalari’ is prepared by attaching a pointed iron hook to the end of a bamboo stick. It is used to turn over the paddy during paddy winnowing.