The Unspoken Traditions of Bastar – A Window into Tribal India

In the deep heartlands of India, far from the bustling urban sprawls and technology hubs, lies a culturally rich and historically rooted region known as Bastar – a district in the state of Chhattisgarh. Bastar is not just a place, it is an experience – an untouched, sacred realm of tribal traditions, mystic festivals, and ancient spiritual connections.

Who Are the People of Bastar?

The region is home to several indigenous tribes, including the Gond, Maria, Bhatra, Halba, and Dhurwa communities. These tribes have their own languages, gods, rituals, and customs. Despite modern influences, Bastar’s tribal people have preserved their age-old traditions with incredible resilience and pride.

Bastar Dussehra – A Festival Unlike Any Other

Unlike the mainstream celebration of Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana, Bastar Dussehra is an entirely different cultural marvel. It is the longest Dussehra celebration in the world, lasting around 75 days! It doesn’t revolve around Ramayana but is dedicated to the local goddess Ma Danteshwari, the presiding deity of Bastar.

• The festival includes pulling of giant chariots made by tribal artisans.
• Each tribe and village contributes a ritual or performance.
• The final procession through the streets of Jagdalpur is both spiritual and visual poetry.

Tribal Deities and Spiritual Beliefs

Religion in Bastar is deeply animistic. Each tribe worships forest spirits, ancestors, and natural elements like rivers, mountains, and trees. The supreme goddess, Danteshwari, is revered across all tribal groups. Shrines called “Devgudis” are erected in villages where rituals, sacrifices, and communal prayers take place.

The Sacred Bond with Nature

Nature is not just a resource for the people of Bastar – it is life itself. Their lifestyles, festivals, and economy revolve around forests and rivers. Medicinal herbs, honey, tendu leaves, mahua flowers, and bamboo are collected sustainably, often following strict spiritual guidelines.

Art and Craft of Bastar

Handicrafts are not just economic activities but expressions of culture and faith. Bastar’s artisans are famous for:

• Dhokra Art: A non-ferrous metal casting technique used for figurines, animals, and tribal deities.
• Wrought Iron Craft: Functional and decorative items created using blacksmithing traditions.
• Wood and Bamboo Art: Used to make masks, furniture, and utility tools.

Dance and Music – Soul of Celebrations

Dance and music are integral to life in Bastar. Each festival, season, and social event is marked by traditional performances:

• Gaur Dance: Performed by the Maria tribe, symbolizing hunting and strength.
• Dandami Maria Dance: Known for its vibrant attire, feathered headgear, and rhythmic drumming.
• Folk Instruments: Dhol, Mandar, Nagada, and flutes made of bamboo.

Marriage Customs and Community Living

Marriage among Bastar tribes is not just a union of two individuals but a sacred contract involving families, gods, and the community. Many tribes still follow traditional rituals like Ghotul – a youth dormitory system used by the Muria tribe to impart knowledge of love, discipline, and community living before marriage.

Bastar’s Culinary Heritage

Tribal food is organic, forest-based, and highly nutritious. Common ingredients include:

• Mahua flowers – used for making liquor and sweets
• Ant chutney – yes, red ants are roasted and made into spicy chutneys!
• Kodo and Kutki – traditional grains high in fiber

Challenges to Tribal Identity

Despite its rich culture, Bastar faces several challenges:

• Deforestation: Threatens the natural balance and livelihood of the tribes.
• Mining and Industrialization: Lead to displacement and cultural erosion.
• Lack of Education: Poor infrastructure and limited access to modern education hamper tribal youth development.

Steps Toward Preservation

Several NGOs and government bodies have taken initiatives to preserve Bastar’s traditions, promote handicrafts globally, and provide sustainable development opportunities. Tourism is also growing, and tribal homestays are becoming popular among cultural travelers.

Why You Should Visit Bastar

• Experience a Dussehra that is 100% original and tribal.
• Explore handmade art untouched by machines.
• Walk through dense forests and see sacred groves.
• Listen to oral stories passed down for generations.

Conclusion

Bastar is not just a travel destination – it’s a cultural journey back in time. Visiting Bastar is an immersion into India’s tribal soul, where the forests whisper ancient songs and the earth breathes tradition. As the world rushes toward modernity, Bastar reminds us of the timeless beauty in living harmoniously with nature and community.

Plan Your Visit

Best Time to Visit: September to February (especially during Bastar Dussehra)

How to Reach: Nearest airport – Raipur; Nearest railhead – Jagdalpur

Stay Options: Tribal homestays, eco-resorts, government guesthouses

Support sustainable travel and responsible tourism. When you visit Bastar, buy local crafts, respect traditions, and engage with the people with an open heart.