‘Bastar Pandum Will Prove to Be a Milestone in Establishing Peace in Bastar’: CM Sai; unveiled logo
Raipur, March 12
The people of Bastar live every moment of their life like a celebration and have a rich cultural heritage to express their happiness. We are making rapid strides towards establishing peace in Bastar, and through Bastar Pandum, we will both preserve the folk life and culture of Bastar and actively participate in its celebratory spirit.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai unveiled the logo for ‘Bastar Pandum 2025’ today in the Committee Room at the Assembly complex, in the presence of artists dancing to the beats of the mandar (traditional drum), and shared these thoughts. He wished success for the event and said that this celebration would not only pass on cultural heritage to the new generation but also provide a strong platform for the talented artists of Bastar. On this occasion, the Chief Minister also released the ‘Bastar Pandum’ booklet.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai emphasized that after the formation of our government, the development of Bastar and bringing its people into the mainstream has been one of our top priorities. We have made rapid progress in our efforts to make Bastar free from Maoism. He also mentioned that Bastar’s residents actively participated in events such as the Bastar Olympics and the recently held Abujhmad Peace Half Marathon, which indicates growing trust in the administration and the desire for peace and harmony in the region.
The Chief Minister also mentioned that the government had made a significant decision to open a hospital in the former Maoist-affected villages in the region. Through the Niyad Nella Nar scheme, we are rapidly fulfilling the basic needs of the people of Bastar.
Chief Minister Shri Sai highlighted that the people of Bastar are known for their simplicity and celebrate every occasion in their own special way. Through Bastar Pandum, we will have the opportunity to see the real life of Bastar up close. He mentioned that the event would feature competitions in seven categories: dance, music, folk art, folklore, drama, handicrafts, rituals, traditions, and cuisine. Shri Sai added that he wished for the well-being of the people of Bastar, for them to live fearlessly in their own unique way, and for them to have access to all government facilities.
On this occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Saw, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Vijay Sharma, Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap, Agriculture Minister Shri Ramvichar Netam, MLA Shri Kiran Dev, MLA Smt. Lata Usendi, MLA Shri Vinayak Goyal, Secretary of the Culture Department Shri Anbalagan P., and Director of Culture Shri Vivek Acharya were present.
Bastar Pandum Logo Reflects Bastar’s Identity
The logo of Bastar Pandum vividly portrays the folk life of Bastar and is deeply connected with its cultural identity. The logo attempts to artistically showcase Bastar’s heritage. “Bastar Pandum” is a term from the Gondi language meaning “Bastar Festival.” The emblem includes representations of Bastar’s lifeline, the Indravati River, Chitrakoot Waterfall, the state animal of Chhattisgarh (the wild buffalo), the state bird (the hill myna), bison horn crowns, turahi (traditional trumpet), dhol (drum), salfi and tadi trees. Through this emblem, the unique, simple, and hopeful Bastar can be easily understood and appreciated.
Event Focused on Seven Key Categories: Dance, Song, and More
‘Bastar Pandum 2025’ will feature competitions in tribal dance, music, drama, musical instruments, traditional attire and jewelry, arts and crafts, as well as tribal cuisine and traditional drinks. The competitions will be held in three stages: Block-level competitions from March 12 to 20, District-level competitions from March 21 to 23, and Division-level competitions in Dantewada from April 1 to 3. Special prizes and certificates will be awarded to the winners at each stage.
Key Attractions: Celebrating Bastar’s Folk Life and Traditions
Bastar Pandum will feature magnificent displays of Bastar’s traditional dance styles, songs, rituals, attire, jewelry, and traditional cuisines. Competitors will be judged based on originality, tradition, and presentation. Prominent community leaders, public representatives, and senior citizens will be invited as special guests. A special committee comprising administrative officials, senior tribal leaders, priests, and experienced artists will be formed to select the winners of the competitions, ensuring transparency and fairness while honoring traditional folk arts.