Karma Festival is a Symbol of Our Ancient and Glorious Tradition- CM Sai

Raipur, October 19

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai today participated as the Chief Guest in the Grand Convention (Sohrai Karma Festival 2025) organized by the All India Rautia Society Development Council, Provincial Branch Chhattisgarh, in Village Kandora of Jashpur district. On this occasion, he inaugurated the Rautia society’s community hall constructed in Kunkuri at a cost of ₹20 lakh and performed the bhumi pujan (groundbreaking ceremony) for the construction of a Rautia building in Gram Panchayat Kandora, to be built at a cost of ₹50 lakh.
Responding to the demand of the society, Chief Minister Shri Sai announced a grant of ₹50 lakh for the construction of a Karma Akhra (traditional dance arena) in Village Kandora and ₹25 lakh for the approach road to the Rautia Bhavan in Raipur. On stage, he paid tribute to the brave martyrs of the Rautia society, Veer Shaheed Bakhtar Sai and Mundal Singh, by garlanding their portraits.
In his address, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai said that the Karma Festival is a symbol of our ancient and glorious tradition, which is celebrated by all communities together. This festival not only connects us to our cultural roots but also teaches us a sense of respect and honor for nature. He stated that traditions like Ekadashi Karma and Dussehra Karma are deeply ingrained in our culture. These festivals work to bind society together.
Chief Minister Shri Sai mentioned that the state government is rapidly implementing Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s guarantees. Immediately after forming the government, in the very first cabinet meeting, 18 lakh houses were approved under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Towards the empowerment of women, assistance of ₹1000 per month is being provided to women through the Mahtari Vandan Yojana. To increase the income of Tendu leaf collectors, the government has raised the rate per standard sack to ₹5500.
Chief Minister Shri Sai affirmed that the state government is resolved to build a Developed Chhattisgarh by the year 2047, in line with the vision of a Developed India. He urged the people to adopt ‘Vocal for Local,’ stating that purchasing indigenous goods will not only strengthen the country’s economy but also encourage local artisans and entrepreneurs.
Chief Minister Shri Sai noted that the state government is working swiftly towards the eradication of Naxalism. Just two days ago, 210 Naxals surrendered and returned to the mainstream.
Chief Minister Shri Sai announced that a Medical College, a Naturopathy and Physiotherapy Center, a Government Nursing College, and a Government Physiotherapy College will be established in the district to expand health services, which will provide educational and employment opportunities for local youth.
Chief Minister Shri Sai performed the traditional rituals of Karma Pujan (worship) of the Karamb tree branch at the Karma worship site in Aama Bagicha, located on the secondary school playground, and prayed for the prosperity, affluence, and happiness of the state. Following this, he enthusiastically danced with the Karma dance troupe, keeping time by hanging a Maandar (drum) around his neck, circling the Karamb tree branch. His wife, Smt. Kaushalya Sai, and family members were also present on the occasion.
Sohrai Karma Festival: The Cultural Identity of the Rautia Society
The Sohrai Karma Festival is essentially a traditional festival celebrated by the Rautia society on the occasion of Govardhan Puja. On this day, the new harvest is brought home with full rituals and prayers. A total of 52 troupes from various districts of Chhattisgarh, along with Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal, participated in this grand event organized in Village Kandora. The colorful presentations of diverse folk cultures and traditional dances filled the entire atmosphere with joy and celebration.
Present on this occasion were MP Shri Radheshyam Rathia, National President of the All India Rautia Society Development Council Shri O. P. Sai, National Vice President Shri Damodar Singh, National General Secretary Shri Azad Singh, Central Organizing Minister Shri Bhuvneshwar Kesar, Central Women’s Member Smt. Uma Devi, along with other office bearers of the society and a large number of dignitaries.
Would you like a brief explanation of any of the specific cultural terms mentioned, such as ‘Karma Akhra’ or ‘Mahtari Vandan Yojana’?