Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s visit to Chhattisgarh marked a significant moment for tribal pride as he graced the closing ceremony of Bastar Pandum 2026. Held at Lalbagh Maidan, the event turned into a cultural extravaganza, captivating attendees with its authentic portrayal of Bastar’s tribal essence.
During his tour, Shah engaged deeply with displays of Dhokra artistry, terracotta works, wood carvings, sisal crafts, bamboo and ironwork, traditional clothing, jewelry, Tumba craftsmanship, tribal paintings, herbal forest remedies, indigenous foods, and folk illustrations. His praise was effusive: ‘This is India’s cultural heartbeat embodied.’
The exhibition masterfully presented the heritage of key tribes including Dandami Maria, Abujhmaria, Muria, Bhatera, and Halba through their distinctive attire and adornments. Tribal artwork vividly captured daily life, natural surroundings, and age-old rituals. Live sessions on forest herbs by traditional healers added an educational layer.
Culinary stalls offered a taste of tradition with specialties like Jondhri Lai laddus, Mandia Pej porridge, Amat curry, Chapda chutney, Kulthi lentils, Pan Bobo, Teekhur snacks, and refreshing Landa and Salphi drinks.
Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai lauded the initiative, stating, ‘Bastar Pandum is our bridge to preserving tribal legacy for posterity.’ He reaffirmed the government’s ongoing efforts in cultural conservation.
In a ceremonial flourish, Shah felicitated the competition victors: Budhram Sodhi (Dantewada) for Gaur Maria dance; Mangli and Palanar Dal (Dantewada) for songs; Lekham Lakha (Sukma) for drama; Rajau Manddi group (Kondera) for instruments; Gunjan Naag (Sukma) for attire; Sudni Dugga (Narayanpur) for jewelry; Omprakash Gavde (Kanker) for crafts; Deepak Jurri (Kanker) for paintings; Urmila Pradhan’s Bhairam Baba group (Bijapur) for beverages; Tarabati (Dantewada) for dishes; Uttam Naik (Kondera) for literature; and Rajdev Baghel (Bastar) for herbal knowledge.
As the curtains fell on Bastar Pandum 2026, it stood as a testament to India’s diverse cultural fabric, with Shah’s presence elevating its national stature.