The youth of Bastanar spread amazing folk colors with ‘Gaur dance’ in front of the President.

Raipur : Saturday was recorded as an unforgettable chapter in the history of Bastar, when on the occasion of the inauguration of the divisional level ‘Bastar Pandum’, the President of the country Draupadi Murmu directly saw the lively and lively form of the primitive culture of Bastar. On this solemn occasion, the world-famous ‘Gaur Dance’ presented by the tribal youth of Bastanar region made the entire complex reverberate with the beat of drums and tinkling of ghunghrus. The President closely observed the rich cultural heritage of Bastar while observing this beautiful presentation with rapt attention.

This dance performed by the youth of Bastanar was not just a cultural display, but a living document of the traditions, life-philosophy and cultural consciousness of the ‘Dandami Madiya’ (Bison Horn Madiya) tribe. As soon as the dancer group came on the stage, their distinctive costumes easily attracted the attention of the crowd present. The crowns of gaur horns adorned on the heads of the male dancers, which were embellished with cowries and peacock feathers, symbolically expressed the deep respect and reverence of the tribal society towards the wild culture of Bastar and the gaur animal. When the female dancers, dressed in traditional sarees and jewellery, beat the ‘Thirududi’ (iron stick) held in their hands on the ground, a wonderful, resonating and rhythmic sound mesmerized the atmosphere.

During the dance, the male dancers gave an impressive imitation of the aggressive, playful and energetic postures of the wild buffalo while playing the heavy ‘mandri’ (drum) hung around the neck. This scene made the audience feel as if they had become direct witnesses of the living and natural environment of the forest. The hunting tradition, courage and indomitable energy of the Madia tribe were clearly reflected in this dance full of joy and happiness. The young men dancing in a circular circle and the girls matching their steps proved that even in this era of modernity, Bastar has preserved its cultural roots with full devotion and pride.

This powerful and emotional presentation given by the artists of Bastanar in the dignified presence of President Draupadi Murmu not only became a symbol of the grand success of Bastar Pandum, but it also effectively highlighted the folk art, tribal traditions and cultural splendor of Bastar on the national stage.