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I may not be the one in my family to lean towards traditional rituals and related events. However, I’ve developed an interest in learning about different cultures and understanding their tradition. Talk about Sikhism and my visit to Hazur Saheb Nanded to more recently, a trip to Bastar to explore the traditions and rituals of the tribes of the region. Being a part of The Bastar Madai, I got to explore the unexplored Bastar and experience culture like never before.
Apart from Nature, Adventure and Heritage, Bastar offers quite a bit of things to do when it comes to culture. Though this was my second trip to Bastar, I got to see so many things that I hadn’t seen on my previous trip, and there’s still so much to see as Bastar is still unexplored and remains a gem to be discovered. In this post, I’ll share my amazing experience of exploring the unexplored Bastar and focus on the new things that I experienced this time.
Exploring Bastar Like Never Before
I delved into the tribal culture, savoured its unique local cuisine, and witnessed the region’s beautiful art and heritage, all over again. Each day was filled with unforgettable moments that showcased the deeply rooted traditions still alive in Bastar. Beyond its cultural depth, Bastar’s natural beauty took my breath away. From serene waterfalls to the lush, untouched forests, every corner of the region is an escape into nature.
In this post, however, I’ll highlight four incredible experiences that I got to experience during this trip. One of them is regarding art, followed by food, heritage and finally tribal culture. All of these were something that I hadn’t experienced earlier. Hence this trip was quite a special one for me.
The Art of Bastar: A Unique Expression of Tribal Identity
Bastar, being a region rich in tribal heritage, is a living canvas of diverse art forms. With so many tribes coexisting, each has developed its own unique artistic identity, making the region a hub for traditional art that is as varied as it is beautiful. Each tribe’s art form stands out in its own right, carrying the distinct stories, beliefs, and craftsmanship passed down through generations.
As part of the Bastar Tourist Circuit, I had the opportunity to visit Chilkuti village and witness the creation of Bell Metal Art or Dokra Art up close. This intricate craft is practised by the entire village, where generations of artisans have perfected the technique. The Dokra art of Bastar is strikingly different and far more detailed in its craftsmanship.
The process itself is fascinating. Artisans create wax moulds and encase them in containers made from ant-hill soil. Molten metal, often sourced from scrap, is then poured into these moulds, coating them to form stunning solid metal figurines. What’s truly remarkable is that no two pieces are exactly alike, especially when it comes to the figurines of deities.
I also got to meet a local craftsman who creates these divine figures based on visions he sees in his dreams. His imagination fuels the uniqueness of each piece, adding a personal touch and a story to every creation.
Tribal Food Of Bastar
One of the highlights of my journey through Bastar was the chance to experience its rich and unique tribal cuisine. The region is known for its use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, giving every dish an authentic and earthy flavour. As a vegetarian, I was delighted to discover an array of dishes that were both wholesome and flavorful.
I got to try bamboo shoots, which added a crunchy texture to the meal, and local greens like Khatta Bhaji or Bheda Bhaaji—a tangy and flavorful leafy vegetable that pairs perfectly with rice. One of the most memorable dishes was Aamat, a spicy and tangy curry made from rice flour and drumsticks. It had just the right balance of heat and flavour, making it a comforting meal that was both simple and satisfying.
The tribal markets of Bastar are also a food lover’s paradise. There, I sampled a variety of pakodas, including delicious moong vadas and fritters made from locally sourced bhaji. The experience wouldn’t have been complete without the tomato and coriander chutney, a zesty dip that perfectly complemented the crispy vadas and added a burst of flavour to every bite.
For meat lovers, Bastar’s cuisine offers incredible preparations of chicken and mutton, and the adventurous can try the famous Chapra chutney, made from red ants. And if you’re into local beverages, the region’s rice beer is highly recommended. While I didn’t try it myself, my friends assured me it’s quite an enjoyable drink, adding to the authentic culinary experience of Bastar.
Bastar – Blend of History and Culture
A visit to Bastar is incomplete without exploring its ancient temples. The Mauli temple, the revered Danteshwari Maa temple, and the unique 360 Odiya temple are just a few examples of the region’s diverse cultural heritage. These temples not only serve as spiritual sanctuaries but also as historical landmarks that highlight the deep-rooted traditions of the region.
One of the most extraordinary cultural events in Bastar is Bastar Dussehra, a celebration that spans an incredible 75 days—making it the longest Dussehra in the world. This festival is a testament to the region’s vibrant traditions and its dedication to preserving its unique customs. Experiencing Bastar Dussehra is like stepping back in time, witnessing rituals and celebrations that have been passed down through centuries.
During my journey, I also explored several ancient temples – Shiv Temple Gumadpal and Shiv Temple Narayanpal – dating as far back as the 11th century. These temples feature stunning architecture inspired by the famous temples of Odisha, with intricate carvings and designs that have stood the test of time. It was heartening to see that many of these temples are well-preserved and continue to be maintained, showcasing Bastar’s commitment to protecting its cultural heritage for future generations.
Rare Glimpse of Tribal Traditions
While I had seen glimpses of tribal life through their dances and folklore during the Bastar Madai inauguration and my previous trip to Bastar, nothing could have prepared me for the deeply spiritual and powerful experience of witnessing their rituals up close.
During a drive back from Tiratgarh Falls, we stumbled upon a tribal gathering that immediately piqued our curiosity. Our guide insisted we stop to witness what he called the Nua Khaani Jatra, a festival where the tribes celebrate the rice harvest. While women weren’t allowed to participate in this particular ritual, I was invited in—albeit with a mix of curiosity and apprehension.
To my surprise, the tribals warmly welcomed us into their sacred space. The Nua Khaani Jatra included animal sacrifice, a common element in their rituals, with hens being offered to the deity. Eggs and fruits were also part of the offerings. The sight was intense, yet deeply reverent, as they honoured the earth for its harvest.
What struck me most was witnessing a young boy, believed to be possessed by a deity. The entire community gathered around him, offering water and other items to pacify the divine spirit. It was surreal, and as I stood there watching, I felt the goosebumps rise on my skin. The energy at that moment was palpable, unlike anything I had ever experienced.
Another fascinating ritual involves calling all the gods and goddesses into a “court,” where they are questioned by the tribe about their actions over the past year. If the tribe feels that a deity hasn’t fulfilled its duties, they stop worshipping them. It’s a thought-provoking concept—if only we could hold our politicians accountable in the same way!
Exploring the Unexplored Bastar
In this journey through Bastar this time around, I’ve had the privilege of diving deep into the region’s tribal culture, witnessing its art, savouring its unique food, and experiencing its heritage and rituals firsthand. From the intricate craftsmanship of Dokra art to the distinct flavours of tribal cuisine, and the profound spiritual experiences during rituals like Nua Khaani Jatra, Bastar offers an unparalleled glimpse into a world that remains largely unexplored.
If you’re seeking a travel experience with offbeat destinations and experience, Bastar invites you to uncover its hidden gems, connect with its people, and immerse yourself in its untold stories. Visit Bastar—and discover a world waiting to be explored. Feel free to drop a comment for any further information or reach out to me for any assistance. Drop your thoughts in the comments below, tweet to me at @Atulmaharaj, DM on Instagram, or Get In Touch.
