Bastar (Chhattisgarh): After the grand culmination of the 75-day-long Bastar Dussehra celebrations, the palanquin (palki) and royal umbrella (chatra) of Mata Danteshwari were ceremoniously brought back to the Mata Danteshwari Temple on September 8. The return procession was marked by vibrant tribal rituals, cultural performances, and traditional musical instruments, with devotees enthusiastically pulling the grand chariot.
Mata Danteshwari Temple’s chief priest, Harendra Nath Jiys, stated, “After worshipping the goddess, her palanquin and chatra were taken to Jagdalpur as part of the rituals. The people performed various traditional ceremonies, and Mata’s palanquin returned to the temple on Wednesday.”
Bastar Dussehra, also known as Bastar Dashara, is one of India’s most unique and oldest festivals, stretching over 75 days. Unlike other Dussehra celebrations, Bastar Dussehra does not involve the burning of Ravana’s effigy. Instead, it is a deep spiritual and cultural tribute to Goddess Shakti, especially revered as Mata Danteshwari by the tribal communities of the region.
The festival begins in the month of Shravan (Sawan) with the Pat Jatra ritual — a ceremonial collection of the first log from the forest to build chariots. Over the weeks, the festival showcases the rich traditions of the Bastar tribes through music, dance, and devotion. It concludes with Muria Durbar, where the royal court of Bastar listens to the grievances of the people, symbolizing community unity and justice.
With a legacy spanning over 600 years, Bastar Dussehra was originally initiated by the Kakatiya dynasty and has since been preserved by the local tribal communities. It continues to serve as a powerful symbol of tribal unity, spirituality, and cultural heritage.
Today, Bastar Dashara attracts not only locals but also tourists from across India and the world, eager to witness this extraordinary celebration rooted in faith, tradition, and community spirit.
