The ten-day festival of Bastar Dussehra is associated with which Indian state?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
The correct answer is option 1 i.e. Chhattisgarh.
The ten-day festival of Bastar Dussehra is associated with the Indian state of Chhattisgarh, particularly in the Bastar region.
- Cultural Significance: Bastar Dussehra is unique and distinct from the traditional Dussehra celebrated in other parts of India, where it typically marks the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. In Bastar, the festival is deeply rooted in the local tribal traditions and is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Danteshwari, the presiding deity of the region.
- Duration and Celebrations: The festival spans 75 days, making it one of the longest festivals in India, although the main festivities are concentrated over ten days. It involves various rituals, processions, and ceremonies that are conducted by the tribal communities of Bastar. These include the installation of the sacred kalash, processions of deities, and a significant focus on the veneration of the earth and nature.
- Tribal Participation: Bastar Dussehra is not just a religious event but also a social and cultural gathering where various tribes of the region come together. Each tribe plays a specific role in the rituals, and their participation is considered vital for the successful completion of the festival.
- Mythological Belief: According to local belief, the festival was started by the Kakatiya dynasty kings who ruled Bastar in the 15th century. They dedicated the festival to Goddess Danteshwari to seek her blessings for the well-being of the region and its people.
The festival of Bastar Dussehra reflects the rich cultural heritage of Chhattisgarh and its tribal communities, emphasizing the deep connection between the people, their deities, and the natural environment.