When monsoon rains sweep across the forests of Bastar, the land transforms. The trees glisten in vibrant greens, and the fields hum with new life. This is when Bastar begins preparing for something truly special—Bastar Dussehra, a celebration that stands apart from the traditional Dussehra.
Unlike the familiar tale of Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana, Bastar Dussehra is dedicated to Shakti, the divine feminine energy, worshipped as Danteshwari Maiya. This 75-day-long festival in Jagdalpur is one of the most unique and vibrant celebrations in India.
As a travel vlogger, I’m always on the lookout for stories that aren’t widely known. My YouTube channel, ShivaTells, is all about discovering such gems. Bastar Dussehra had been on my radar for a while, and this year, I finally got the chance to experience it.
Here’s my story of this grand celebration, a journey that left me in awe.
Table of Contents
A Festival Rooted in History
As I reached Jagdalpur, the town was already buzzing with excitement. The streets were filled with people dressed in colorful traditional attire, preparing for the rituals. But what struck me the most was the deep faith that tied everyone together.
Bastar Dussehra isn’t just a festival; it’s a living tradition that dates back to the 15th century, during the reign of King Purushottam Dev of the Kalachuri dynasty. The story goes that the king visited Puri on a pilgrimage, where he was gifted a divine chariot and the title of Rathpati, or Lord of Chariots, by the Puri king. When he returned to Bastar, he introduced the tradition of chariot processions, which eventually grew into this grand celebration.
The festival is much more than rituals; it’s a mix of tribal cultures, royal traditions, and spiritual practices. Over the years, it has become a platform for the people of Bastar to come together and honor their goddess, Danteshwari Maiya, in a truly spectacular way.
Kaachan Gadi: A Sacred Start
The festival began with one of the most sacred rituals, Kaachan Gadi. A young girl was chosen to embody Danteshwari Maiya for the duration of the festival.
I watched in awe as she was seated on a throne made of thorns, yet her calm and radiant demeanor made it clear she was more than just a young girl. She symbolized the goddess herself. Dressed in intricate traditional jewelry, she granted permission to the king to start the festivities.
This ritual wasn’t just a formality. It was a deeply spiritual moment, showcasing the community’s reverence for their goddess. For me, it was humbling to witness this kind of faith and devotion.
Rath Yatra: The Grand Procession
The highlight of Bastar Dussehra is undoubtedly the Rath Yatra, or the chariot procession. I had heard about its grandeur, but nothing could have prepared me for what I saw.
The chariot was enormous, intricately decorated, and a true masterpiece of craftsmanship. It wasn’t just a vehicle; it was a symbol of unity and devotion. Thousands of devotees gathered to pull the chariot through the streets of Jagdalpur.
I joined the procession, my camera capturing every detail. But it wasn’t just about documenting it for my vlog. I wanted to feel the energy, to be a part of the celebration.
The streets came alive with music, dance, and chants. People from all walks of life came together, pulling the chariot as if it were a divine act. The joy on their faces and the unity in their efforts were powerful reminders of how festivals like these bring people closer.
Nisha Jatra: The Mystical Night
As vibrant as the daytime festivities were, the night brought an entirely different vibe. The Nisha Jatra, a nighttime ritual, was one of the most intriguing parts of Bastar Dussehra.
Under the cover of darkness, tantric rituals were performed to appease deities and spirits. Devotees made offerings and sacrifices, seeking blessings for the well-being of their community.
The atmosphere was heavy with mystery, yet it was fascinating to watch. While the rituals may seem unusual to outsiders, they are a crucial part of the community’s belief system. It showed me how deeply rooted their faith was, blending spirituality with their daily lives.
Farewell to the Deities
As the 75-day-long festival neared its end, it was time for the Mavalli Par Ghāv ceremony. This ritual marked the departure of the deities, who were bid farewell in a grand procession.
I followed the procession, feeling the bittersweet emotions of the people. For them, the deities weren’t just divine beings; they were family. The farewell was emotional, filled with music, prayers, and vibrant colors.
Watching this ceremony, I felt a deep sense of connection to the community. Their devotion wasn’t just about rituals but love, respect, and a shared sense of identity.
The Spirit of Bastar Dussehra
Bastar Dussehra isn’t just a festival; it’s a celebration of faith, culture, and unity. It’s a reminder that traditions, no matter how old, continue to shape the identity of a community.
For the people of Bastar, this festival is more than a celebration—it’s a way of life. It preserves their heritage, brings them together, and honors their goddess.
For me, this journey was an eye-opener. It was a chance to witness the heart of Bastar’s culture and to be part of something so profound.
Stay Tuned for Part 2
As I packed my bags and left Jagdalpur, I felt a sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the people who welcomed me with open arms, for the stories I got to witness, and for the opportunity to share them with you all.
But this is just the beginning. Bastar Dussehra has so much more to offer, and I can’t wait to dive deeper into its mysteries and traditions.
So, stay tuned to ShivaTells for Part 2 of this incredible journey. In the next chapter, we’ll explore the tribal cultures, meet the people who make this festival so unique, and uncover more of Bastar’s hidden gems.
Until then, keep exploring, stay curious, and never stop celebrating the diversity of our beautiful world. See you soon!