Chhattisgarh Silver Jubilee Festival: Grand Celebration of Women’s Conference and Teeja-Pora Festival

Raipur, August 24

At the invitation of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, the traditional Chhattisgarhi festival Teeja-Pora was celebrated with great enthusiasm today at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Auditorium in Raipur. Women from across the state came in large numbers to attend this grand event held at the invitation of ‘Vishnu Bhaiya.’ Ministers and public representatives warmly welcomed the women and presented them with sarees, cosmetics, and traditional Chhattisgarhi festive food as gifts.

Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao, as the chief guest, greeted the women on the occasion of Teeja. Addressing the Women’s Conference, he said that Teeja is a significant festival in Chhattisgarh symbolizing the honor, respect, and determination of womanhood. He extended greetings on behalf of the government to all the women observing a nirjala fast (waterless fast), praying for the safety and prosperity of their husbands and families. He emphasized that the large turnout of women at the Chief Minister’s invitation itself highlights the importance of this festival.

He further said that the arrival of Teeja brings joy to women’s hearts as they look forward to being invited home by brothers and nephews. Under the leadership of CM Vishnu Deo Sai, the state government is constantly working to enhance the honor and pride of Chhattisgarh Mahtari (Mother Chhattisgarh). Under the Mahtari Vandan Yojana, over 7 million women in the state are receiving ₹1,000 per month, empowering them economically and enabling them to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with their husbands in running the household. He assured that the government will continue to introduce such schemes to promote women’s self-reliance.

Agriculture Minister Shri Ramvichar Netam also extended his greetings and said that this occasion is very special for all the women celebrating Teeja. It is not just a religious ritual but a symbol of joy, unity, and sisterhood.

Women and Child Development Minister Smt. Laxmi Rajwade said that Teeja represents religious, social, and ecological harmony. Women play a vital role in keeping the family united and blissful. Married women observe a waterless fast and worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, praying for their husbands’ longevity. During the monsoon, the fields turn lush green, reflecting the hard work of our cattle and farmers, which fills our rice granaries. Former MP Smt. Saroj Pandey also addressed the gathering.

On this occasion, Padma Shri Pandavani singer Smt. Usha Barle and folk singer Kumari Aru Sahu were honored with mementos for their contributions. Also present were Labour and Industry Minister Shri Lakhanlal Dewangan, MLA Shri Sunil Soni, Shri Indra Kumar Sao, Shri Anuj Sharma, Chairperson of the Hair Artists’ Board Smt. Mona Sena, Minority Commission Chairman Shri Amarjeet Chhabra, Chairman of Food and Civil Supplies Corporation Shri Sanjay Srivastava, Raipur Mayor Smt. Meenal Chaubey, among other dignitaries.

Women Enthusiastic at the Conference; Teeja-Observing Sisters Applied Mehendi

Gratitude Expressed to “Vishnu Bhaiya” for the Invitation

A large number of women participated in the Women’s Conference and Teeja-Pora celebration held at the invitation of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, extended in the symbolic role of a brother. The venue was vibrant with lively stalls. Women adorned themselves with mehendi, wore colorful bangles, applied alta (red dye on feet), and enjoyed the monsoon swings, embracing the spirit of the season.

Special cultural programs were organized for the elderly women. Usha Barle’s Pandavani performance captivated the audience. The entire auditorium was decorated in traditional Chhattisgarhi style, featuring stalls for mehendi, bangles, alta, and showcasing preparations for Teeja-Pora in a rural setup.

An exhibition of traditional Chhattisgarhi jewelry was also displayed, including:
Toṛa, Pairi Paijan, Lachha, Saanti, Jhanjh, Bichhiya, Chutki, Ainṭhi, Gol, Kangana, Karha Tarakaúva, Braided-style Kangana/Karha, Pata, Kakani-Haraya, Tarki, Chhumka, Dhar, Khinwa, Lurki, Dhaturia, Phulli, Nath, Rupiyamala, Tilri, Katwa, Soota, Kardhan, Bajuband, Khagga, Fundra, and Jhabli.

Agricultural tools and musical instruments were also exhibited alongside the jewelry.

Women Show Enthusiasm in Traditional Games

Chair Race, Jalebi Race, Lemon Spoon Race, and Tug of War Held

The celebrations began with the ritual worship of Lord Shiva, Parvati, and Nandi. Following this, stage programs featuring women participants turned the atmosphere into a festive one.

Women actively participated in fun competitions like the chair race, jalebi race, lemon spoon race, and tug of war. The entire hall echoed with applause and excitement. These games not only brought thrill but also fostered a sense of community and connection around this traditional festival.

Many women said that such events double the joy of the festival and help in strengthening social bonds. Winners of the competitions were awarded prizes, and all participants were appreciated for their involvement.