Bastar Padum to preserve, promote tribal culture: Sharma

RAIPUR,CG,INDIA: The Bastar Pandum 2025 festival is being organized as a grand divisional-level event in Dantewada to showcase and preserve the rich tribal art, culture, and heritage of Bastar. The event aims to bring global recognition to Bastar’s unique traditions while ensuring proper honor and identity for the local tribal community.

Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma and Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap inaugurated the event at the High School in Dantewada. Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Chief Minister Sharma said that the government has organized Bastar Pandum during Navratri to preserve and promote Bastar’s culture on a global stage. He emphasized that the festival provides an opportunity to experience Bastar’s traditions, customs, and cuisine. Sharma expressed his admiration for the region’s vibrant cultural heritage and pledged efforts to connect Bastar’s people with development initiatives.

Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap highlighted that Bastar Pandum is gaining attention both in India and abroad, with growing interest in Bastar’s culture. He noted that local cuisines, costumes, and jewelry unique to Bastar are at risk of extinction, and the festival is a significant step toward preserving them. The event features a grand exhibition with participants from various districts showcasing Bastar’s rich heritage. Kashyap also emphasized the cultural significance of Bastar Dussehra and Phalgun Mandai, describing them as symbols of social harmony.

Other dignitaries, including MLA Chaitram Atami and District Panchayat President Nandlal Mudami, also addressed the gathering. Director of the Culture Department, Vivek Acharya, provided an overview of the program.

At the start of the event, the ministers visited tribal art stalls, observed musical instruments, and appreciated the local and tribal cuisine on display.