Bastar's 75-Day Dussehra: A Tribal Celebration Honoring the Goddess

As the rest of India associates Dussehra with Lord Ram's victory, Bastar's Dussehra celebration in Chhattisgarh has no ties to the Ramayana. Instead, this centuries-old festival is a 75-day homage to Devi Shakti, revering Goddess Danteshwari and Mavli.

On July 24, 2025, the world-renowned Bastar Dussehra formally began with the 'Paat Jatra' ritual at the Danteshwari temple. The festival features two iconic wooden chariots - the Phool Rath and the Vijay Rath - whose origins trace back to Bastar's connections with Lord Jagannath of Puri.

This year, the spotlight intensifies as Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to attend the 'Muria Darbar' ritual on October 4. This gathering allows tribal representatives to voice their demands directly to the senior national leader, on issues ranging from Maoist violence to infrastructure.

At the heart of Bastar Dussehra lies a living archive of tribal beliefs, history, and community participation. Unlike elsewhere, the festival is deeply participatory, with villagers, artisans, and tribals executing the rituals. Customs like the Kachhangadi ceremony, where royalty bows before a child from a 'so-called untouchable' community, underscore Bastar's philosophy of inclusivity.

Over 75 days, Bastar will witness goddess processions, tribal dances, fire rituals, and ceremonies fusing folklore with faith - all in a land where Ravana is revered and the Goddess reigns supreme.