Bastar Dussehra

Bastar Dussehra

Chhattisgarh, the land of lush forests, tribal traditions, and rich heritage, is home to one of the most unique and long-lasting celebrations in India—Bastar Dussehra. Unlike the Dussehra festivals celebrated across the country, which primarily focus on the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana, Bastar Dussehra is dedicated to Maa Danteshwari, the revered goddess of the Bastar region.

A Festival Like No Other

Bastar Dussehra is not just a festival; it is a grand celebration of tribal culture, faith, and community spirit. Spanning nearly 75 days, it begins in September and continues until November, involving elaborate rituals, processions, and traditional performances. The sheer length of the festival is a testament to the deep-rooted devotion of the tribes of Bastar to their goddess.

The Spiritual Significance

The festival is centered around the Danteshwari Temple in Jagdalpur, the spiritual hub of Bastar. Maa Danteshwari is believed to be a manifestation of Shakti, the divine feminine energy. The festival is an offering of gratitude to the goddess for protecting the tribes and ensuring prosperity. Unlike other Dussehra celebrations that focus on mythological epics, Bastar Dussehra is a living tradition of tribal devotion and folklore.

Rituals and Ceremonies

Every day of Bastar Dussehra is filled with rituals, processions, and tribal ceremonies:

Pratipada to Dashami: The festival begins with rituals to invite the goddess to the town and ends with ceremonies to bid farewell.

Processions: Sacred chariots carry the idol of Maa Danteshwari through villages, accompanied by music, dance, and chants.

Traditional Offerings: Tribal communities present handmade items, agricultural produce, and symbolic offerings to seek blessings.

Folk Performances: The festival showcases traditional dances such as Dhokra dance, Gaur dance, and Bastar tribal dances, along with local musical instruments like Mandar and Tama drums.

Art, Handicrafts, and Culture

Bastar Dussehra is also an artistic extravaganza. The region’s famous Bastar handicrafts, including terracotta, bell metal, and wrought iron items, are sold during the festival. Visitors can witness artisans at work, creating traditional masks, jewelry, and sculptures that reflect the tribal ethos and beliefs.

Community and Togetherness

One of the most remarkable aspects of Bastar Dussehra is the sense of community unity it fosters. Tribal communities from nearby villages come together to celebrate, making it a festival of bonding, shared faith, and cultural pride. Participation is not just limited to locals; the festival attracts tourists from across India and the world, eager to witness this living cultural heritage.

Why Bastar Dussehra is Unique

Duration: Lasts about 75 days, unlike typical Dussehra celebrations.

Deity: Dedicated to Maa Danteshwari, rather than Lord Rama.

Tribal Traditions: Deep involvement of tribal rituals, customs, and folk arts.

Community Spirit: A collective celebration fostering unity among tribes.

Cultural Display: Showcases handicrafts, dance, music, and local cuisine.

When to Visit

The festival typically starts in mid-September and continues until early November. Visiting during Bastar Dussehra offers an immersive cultural experience, where one can witness rituals, tribal performances, and authentic lifestyle practices of Chhattisgarh’s indigenous communities.

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