President Murmu's Chhattisgarh Visit Emphasizes Culture, Service, and Tribal Traditions

President Murmu's Chhattisgarh Visit Emphasizes Culture, Service, and Tribal Traditions

During her two-day visit to Chhattisgarh from October 22-23, 2026, President Droupadi Murmu placed significant emphasis on the state's rich cultural heritage, social harmony, youth empowerment, and the preservation of tribal traditions. She underscored the importance of service, ethics, education, and cultural values in society through her participation in various events in the capital Raipur and Jagdalpur, the headquarters of the Bastar division.

In Raipur, President Murmu released a special commemorative coin worth 200 rupees to mark the 200th birth anniversary of the revered Mata Sahib Hassi Devi. She also addressed youth and women during the Nuakhai festival, offering mantras for success. In Jagdalpur, her presence at the historic Muriya Darbar provided a significant national platform for the ancient traditions of the tribal society.

Cultural and Spiritual Events in Raipur

President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Raipur on October 22, where she was welcomed by Governor Ramen Deca, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, and representatives of the state government. Strict security arrangements were in place in the capital.

At a ceremony held at the Chhattisgarh Mandapam in Lok Bhavan, Raipur, the President released a commemorative coin of 200 rupees denomination to mark the 200th birth anniversary of the fifth Peethadheeshwar of Shadani Darbar, the revered Mata Sahib Hassi Devi. Issued by the Union Ministry of Finance, the coin features a portrait of Mata Hassi Devi on one side and the Lion Capital of Ashoka and the denomination of 200 rupees on the other.

A special postage stamp was also released on this occasion, marking a significant moment for the religious, spiritual, and cultural history of the Sindhi community. Present at the ceremony were Governor Ramen Deca, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, the current Peethadheeshwar of Shadani Darbar, Saint Dr. Yudhisthir Lal, and eminent representatives of the Sindhi community. The commemorative coin aims to convey the life, social contributions, and spiritual teachings of Mata Hassi Devi to future generations.

Message of Youth Power and Women Empowerment on Nuakhai

Subsequently, the President participated in the 'Seva Samman Parv' and 'Yuva Prabodhan' programs organized on the occasion of the Nuakhai festival at the Sardar Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium in Raipur. She highlighted the importance of Indian agricultural traditions, gratitude towards nature, and social unity.

President Murmu stated that Nuakhai is not merely a festival but an opportunity to connect society with its roots and pass on traditional life values to the new generation. Describing food as a result of farmers' hard work, the earth's bounty, and a precious gift from nature, she emphasized that respecting food, acknowledging the contributions of farmers, and protecting natural resources are collective responsibilities of all citizens.

Addressing the youth, she inspired them to dream big, work hard with honesty, and align their goals with national interest. She remarked that nation-building is accomplished through the small, honest efforts of crores of citizens, and stressed the importance of embracing knowledge, humility, ambition, ethics, and a spirit of service alongside success.

The President also highlighted the crucial role of increasing social participation of women in building a developed India. She stated that the equal participation of women will be extremely essential to fulfill the resolution of making India a developed nation by the year 2047. She urged youth and men to create an environment for women where they can realize their dreams without any hindrance.

President Murmu lauded the efforts of youth in Chhattisgarh who are returning to the mainstream after being freed from the influence of Naxalism, describing it as a positive sign for peace, development, and the expansion of new possibilities in the state.

Bastar: Respect for Tribal Traditions and Cultural Heritage

On the second day of her tour, October 23, President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Jagdalpur. She was welcomed at the Maa Danteshwari Airport by Governor Ramen Deca, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, and other dignitaries.

Upon her arrival in Bastar, the President expressed deep respect for the region's historical religious traditions and tribal culture. Her presence at the historic Muriya Darbar, organized as part of Bastar Dussehra, was a special highlight.

The Muriya Darbar is an important part of Bastar's ancient tribal democratic tradition, also known locally as the 'Primitive People's Parliament.' This tradition originated during the time of the former princely state of Bastar, where traditional tribal representatives like the Manjhi and Chalki presented societal issues and suggestions to the administration. Even after the end of the monarchy, this system has retained its cultural and social significance.

At the Muriya Darbar, the President urged tribal communities to preserve their cultural identity, customs, and traditions. She emphasized that while changes in thinking are necessary with changing times, one should not abandon their original culture and traditions. She appealed to tribal families to pay special attention to children's education and provide development opportunities to the new generation.

Mentioning her own tribal background, the President expressed a deep connection with the people of Bastar. She appreciated the collective living, mutual cooperation, dance, music, and traditional systems within the tribal society. She stressed the need for collective efforts to maintain peace and harmony in society and highlighted the role of traditional community leadership in resolving local disputes.

She also conveyed a message to those affected by Naxalism to move forward on the path of peace and development. Bastar Dussehra, which stands out from Dussehra celebrations in other parts of India due to its unique traditions, is associated with the worship of Maa Danteshwari, tribal beliefs, and community participation. The President's participation further underscored the importance of preserving these traditions and their national recognition.

Broader Impact of the Visit

President Droupadi Murmu's two-day visit was not limited to formal events but brought to the fore significant aspects of Chhattisgarh's diverse social and cultural identity. Key highlights included respecting the spiritual heritage of the Sindhi community in Raipur, conveying a message of gratitude to farmers and nature during the Nuakhai festival, and emphasizing the preservation of tribal traditions in Bastar.

The visit sent a clear message that along with modern development, the preservation of local culture, social values, and traditional institutions is also essential. Education, women's empowerment, constructive participation of youth, and inclusive development of tribal communities are crucial foundations for the nation's progress.

The President's Chhattisgarh journey provided a new expression to the concept of national unity in cultural diversity and the resolve for progress hand-in-hand with tradition.