- Muria Darbar to be held in Jagdalpur on October 23
- President’s presence to bring national recognition to Bastar’s rich tribal culture and glorious traditions
The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, will attend the Muria Darbar of Bastar Dussehra—an event symbolizing the rich tribal culture, folk traditions, and glorious heritage of Chhattisgarh. Accepting the invitation extended by Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, President Smt. Murmu has agreed to participate in the Muria Darbar scheduled for October 23, 2026, in Jagdalpur.
Union Minister Shri Tokhan Sahu, Minister of Culture and Tourism Shri Rajesh Agrawal, Bastar Lok Sabha MP Shri Mahesh Kashyap, and Secretary of the Culture and Tourism Department Dr. S. Bharathidasan were present when the invitation letter from Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai was handed over to President Smt. Murmu.
- President’s presence: A moment of pride for Bastar’s cultural heritage
Dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari, Bastar Dussehra holds a unique identity across the country for its distinctive tribal traditions, folk beliefs, and community participation. During the ‘Bastar Pandum’ event held in Jagdalpur in February 2026, President Smt. Droupadi Murmu had described Bastar Dussehra as a unique example of tribal culture and brotherhood. She had also emphasized the need to advance on the path of development while preserving Bastar’s ancient traditions and culture.
In this context, the President’s proposed attendance at the Muria Darbar of Bastar Dussehra will be a moment of special pride for Bastar’s cultural identity, tribal traditions, and folk heritage.
- Muria Darbar: A vibrant social tradition of Bastar
The Muria Darbar holds special significance among the traditions of Bastar Dussehra. This event is a vibrant expression of Bastar’s social and community structure. The Muria Darbar fosters a tradition of dialogue among Bastar’s traditions, public representatives, community leaders, and the local populace.
Traditional roles such as Manjhi and Chalki have played a pivotal part in the culture and social fabric of Bastar. During a meeting with a delegation from Bastar in July 2026, President Smt. Droupadi Murmu also highlighted the significant contribution of Manjhis and Chalkis in preserving social life and cultural values.
Culture and Tourism Minister Shri Rajesh Agrawal stated that Bastar Dussehra is a glorious cultural tradition of Chhattisgarh, recognized not only within the state but also across the nation and the globe. The presence of President Smt. Droupadi Murmu at the Muria Darbar is a moment of immense pride for Bastar’s tribal culture and traditions.
He remarked that Bastar’s culture is deeply intertwined with the lives of its people, their folk beliefs, art, traditions, and nature. President Murmu’s presence will bring wider national recognition to this rich cultural heritage. The state government aims to expand employment and economic opportunities for local communities through tourism while simultaneously preserving Bastar’s traditions and cultural heritage.
Shri Agrawal noted that Bastar Dussehra stands as a vibrant example of cultural diversity and community participation. Welcoming the President at the Muria Darbar on October 23rd will be a proud moment for the entire region of Bastar and the state of Chhattisgarh.
- The President’s Special Connection with Bastar’s Culture
Her Excellency President Smt. Droupadi Murmu shares a special bond with the culture and tribal heritage of Bastar. In February 2026, she inaugurated the ‘Bastar Pandum’ festival in Jagdalpur. In her address, she highlighted the significance of Bastar’s ancient culture, natural beauty, waterfalls, and caves from a tourism perspective. She also emphasized the necessity of advancing modern development while preserving Bastar’s rich heritage. During a meeting with a delegation from Bastar in July 2026, the President had also emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting Bastar’s cultural identity and ensuring the participation of tribal communities in their development journey.