Chhattisgarh Folk Art: This Independence Day brings a moment of special pride for Chhattisgarh’s folk culture. On August 15, artists from the village of Saraitola (Gudrapar) in the Nagri block of Dhamtari district will perform the traditional ‘Gutta Mandar’ dance style at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. This performance on a national stage will showcase the state’s tribal folk art and rural cultural heritage to the entire country.
The ‘Jai Garhiya Baba Adivasi Lok Mandari Dance Troupe’ from Saraitola village is renowned for its traditional Garhwa dance style, the rhythmic beats of the Mandar (a traditional drum), folk songs, and group choreography. Through traditional attire and folk instruments, the troupe’s artists bring to life the lifestyle, festivals, and social traditions of Chhattisgarh’s tribal community on stage. The troupe was selected by the Nagpur Sanskritik Bhavan. Getting the opportunity to perform at the Rashtrapati Bhavan during the main Independence Day celebrations is a significant achievement for the artists.
The Gutta Mandar dance is not merely a form of entertainment; it embodies the traditions of rural and tribal life, community unity, and a deep cultural connection with nature. This folk dance plays a pivotal role during harvests, fairs, festivals, and social gatherings. Colorful traditional costumes, ornaments, folk songs, and the energetic beats of the Mandar make the performance truly distinctive. The performance at the Rashtrapati Bhavan will serve as a medium to give national recognition to this cultural diversity of Chhattisgarh.
The Artists Performing
For the event at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, Ratan Lal Nishad, Surendra Sori, Hemant Sori, Sulochana Sori, and Madhu Netam from Saraitola will travel to New Delhi. The artists have already begun preparations for this historic occasion. Rupray Netam, the troupe’s secretary, stated that presenting Chhattisgarh’s traditional folk art at the nation’s highest constitutional venue is a matter of pride for the entire group. The artists are excited to deliver their best performance on this occasion. Collector Extends Best Wishes
During the ‘Jan-Darshan’ program on August 4, office bearers and members of the Garhiya Baba Tribal Folk Dance Service Committee, Saraitola, met the Dhamtari Collector and briefed her on their upcoming performance in Delhi. Congratulating the artists, the Collector remarked that showcasing Dhamtari’s folk traditions and tribal art on a national platform is a matter of pride for the district. She also described the event as an opportunity to connect the younger generation with their cultural roots.
