Amit Shah praises Bastar's rich culture, says region now "Naxal-free, preserving its treasures"
New Delhi, July 30
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday praised the winners of Bastar Pandum and lauded the region's rich traditions, culture and social customs during a meeting with President Droupadi Murmu and the Manjhi-Chalaki, traditional social leaders of Bastar.
In a post on X, Shah said, "Today, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, I engaged in a dialogue with the Hon'ble President Smt. Droupadi Murmu Ji, along with the prominent Manjhi-Chalaki of Bastar's social traditions and the winners of the Bastar Pandum."
Shah said that the people of Bastar were emerging as "Naxal-free" while showcasing and preserving their rich heritage, culture and traditions, which he said had been affected by Naxalite violence.
"The Bastar residents, arriving at Rashtrapati Bhavan for the first time in their traditional attire, stand as proof that Bastar, which was once losing its rich heritage, culture, and traditions due to Naxalite violence, is today emerging Naxal-free and preserving its treasures," he said.
He further stated that Bastar, advancing on the path of development, would in the coming years become Chhattisgarh's most developed division and set new benchmarks in progress.
According to Chhattisgarh CMO, there are 12 disciplines for performances and competitions, including Bastar tribal dance, song, drama, musical instruments, costumes and jewellery, worship practices, crafts, painting, tribal beverages, traditional cuisine, regional literature, and forest medicine.
A delegation from Bastar Mandal comprising winners of Bastar Pandum 2026, Pargana Manjhi and Chalaki of Bastar, called on the President Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre today.
Among the dignitaries present on the occasion were Home Minister Amit Shah and Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai.
Addressing the gathering, the President said that the Bastar Pandum is not merely a cultural event; it is a celebration of Bastar's glorious traditions and cultural identity. Its objective is to establish Bastar's true identity on both national and international platforms.
She underlined that events like Bastar Pandum have played a vital role in reconnecting the youth with their traditions, customs, and cultural heritage. Such events also promote tourism and create employment opportunities.
The President appreciated the role of Manjhi and Chalki in preserving social life and cultural values. She said that they are an effective bridge between the community and the administration.
She expressed confidence that through their dedication and leadership, they will continue to work towards happiness, peace, and prosperity in society.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Finally some positive news from that region. The tribal traditions of Bastar are truly unique - their dance forms, jewellery, even the forest medicines. Glad they're being celebrated at Rashtrapati Bhavan. But I'm skeptical about the "Naxal-free" claim - ground reports suggest otherwise in many pockets.
The Manjhi-Chalaki system is an age-old governance structure that's been preserving tribal customs for centuries. About time they got national recognition. But development without displacement and preserving their way of life is the real challenge ahead. Hope the government walks the talk.
It's heartening to see tribal culture being celebrated at such high levels. The Bastar Pandum competition covering 12 disciplines - from dance to forest medicine - shows the incredible diversity we have. But let's remember: true freedom from Naxalism comes when locals get jobs, education, and dignity, not just security forces.
President Murmu mentioning that these events reconnect youth with their traditions is spot on! Many tribal kids in cities lose touch with their roots. But I've heard the Bastar Pandum winners get cash prizes and exposure - that's a great incentive. Just hope the bureaucracy doesn't kill the spirit with too many rules.
Good initiative, but I'm waiting to see if this translates to real tourists visiting Bastar safely and local artisans getting fair prices for their crafts. Culture preservation is important, but basic amenities like roads, hospitals, and schools matter more for the common person there. 🤔
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