Block-Level Bastar Pandum Held in 5 Development Blocks of Bastar

Raipur, March 20

Block-level Bastar Pandum was organized on Thursday in the development blocks of Jagdalpur, Bastar, Tokapal, Bastanar, and Darbha in Bastar district. On the occasion of the event, elected representatives and community leaders expressed that this event is being organized with the objective of preserving and promoting Bastar’s rich cultural heritage. Through Bastar Pandum, traditional dances, folk songs, handicrafts, and tribal customs are being given a platform, which is helping local culture gain new recognition. Various tribal groups are showcasing their art and traditions, which will not only increase cultural awareness but also boost tourism. The excitement of local folk artists, tribal communities, and culture enthusiasts was evident at all the events held in these blocks. Bastar Pandum is not just an effort to preserve culture but also an important opportunity to strengthen social unity and traditional values. Thousands of participants in these development blocks actively took part in Bastar Pandum. The district-level Bastar Pandum will be held at Indira Priyadarshini Stadium, Jagdalpur, on 22nd and 23rd March, where selected participants from the block level will be involved.

It is noteworthy that Bastar Pandum 2025 included several categories such as tribal dances like Gedi, Gaur-Madiya, Kaksad, Mandari, Hulikipata, Parab, and under the folk song series, tribal songs such as Chaitparab, Leja, Jagargeet, Dhankul, Hulki Pata (rituals, festivals, marriage customs, and naming ceremonies). In the tribal drama category, Bhatra Natya was evaluated on the basis of rhythm and beats, musical art, instruments, costumes, originality, folk tunes, instruments, tradition, acting, subject, script, dialogues, and storyline. Additionally, the tribal musical instruments display included Dhankul, Dhol, Chitkul, Todi, Akum, Jhab, Mandar, Mridang, Biria Dhol, Sarangi, Gudum, Mohari, Sulung, Mundabaja, and Chikara, which were judged on coordination, skill, type, and ancientness. In the tribal costume and jewelry display category, ornaments like Lurki, Kardhan, Sutiya, Pairi, Bahunta, Bichhiya, Aenti, Bandha, Phuli, Dhamel, Nangmori, Khochni, Mundri, Surra, Suta, Pata, Putri, and Nakbesar were evaluated on uniformity, adornment, and mythological significance. The tribal handicrafts and paintings display category included items like Ghadwa, Mati Kala, Katha, Dokra, Iron Stone, Godna, Wall Paintings, Shishal, Kaudi Craft, Bamboo Comb, Geeki (Mat), and Grass Beads. The tribal beverages and food display, including Salfi, Tadi, Chhindras, Landa, Pej, Kosra, Madiya Pej, Chapda Chutney, Suksi Pudga, Machhri Pudga, Machhri Jhor, Aamt Saag, and Tikur, were the main attractions of Bastar Pandum 2025, along with their preparation methods, local spices, flavors, and varieties. Participants were awarded prizes as encouragement. A large number of elected representatives, officials, and villagers attended the event.

Community Leaders Appreciated the Bastar Pandum Event

Community leaders actively participating in the Bastar Pandum at the development block level in Bastar district expressed great enthusiasm and attachment to the event. These leaders praised the Bastar Pandum as an excellent initiative and expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai and the state government for their efforts.

Former MLA and Acting State President of the Sarv Adivasi Samaj Shri Rajaram Todem highlighted Bastar Pandum as an unparalleled effort by the state government to showcase the cultural diversity of the tribal community to the country and the world. Meanwhile, Shri Dashrath Kashyap, District President of Sarv Adivasi Samaj, described Bastar Pandum as a notable step in preserving and promoting tribal culture and suggested that it should be held every year.

Shri Chameli Jiram, District President of the Women’s Wing of Sarv Adivasi Samaj, stated that Bastar Pandum provides a great platform for the future generations of the tribal community to learn and understand their rich cultural heritage. She emphasized that the younger generation is increasingly distanced from their culture, traditions, and customs, and such events will help them reconnect.

Annapurna Nag from Nagar Nar and Budhri Baghel from Bhejapadar, who presented tribal beverages at the event, shared that Bastar Pandum showcased a unique display of tribal culture, including traditions, rituals, and food. They appreciated the government’s efforts to preserve and promote their identity.