Raipur /The Bastar region’s rich tribal heritage, traditional art forms and cultural identity will once again receive a grand showcase through Bastar Pandum 2026. A high-level review meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai at the Chief Minister’s residence, finalised key preparations for the upcoming festival. This year, special emphasis has been laid on enhancing youth participation and providing them wider opportunities.
12 Competitive Categories to Promote Youth Talent
To ensure greater participation of young artists, the number of competitive categories has been increased from 7 to 12. These include tribal dance, traditional songs, theatre, folk instruments, attire and jewellery, craft, painting, regional literature, tribal beverages, traditional cuisine and forest-based herbal knowledge.
Festival to be Held in Three Phases from 10 January to 5 February
Bastar Pandum 2026 will be organised in three phases across the entire Bastar division:
- 10–20 January: Janpad-level activities
- 24–30 January: District-level events
- 1–5 February: Division-level main festival
Events will be conducted across 1,885 gram panchayats, 32 janpad panchayats and all urban bodies in the seven districts of Bastar.
Bastar’s Cultural Identity to Reach a Global Audience
A key highlight of this year’s festival will be the proposed invitation to Indian ambassadors posted in various countries, allowing them to witness the distinctive cultural traditions and tribal lifestyle of Bastar. Additionally, UPSC and CGPSC-selected officers, senior public representatives, doctors, engineers and tribal dance groups from across the country will also be invited.
Launch of Logo, Theme Song and Official Website
The festival’s logo, theme song and official website will be unveiled by the Chief Minister at the Maa Danteshwari temple premises. Traditional leaders including Manjhi–Chalki, Gaitha–Pujari, prominent tribal representatives and Padma awardees will participate in the ceremony.
Streamlined Registration for Participants
To ensure wider participation from remote areas, registration for artists and groups will be facilitated through both online and offline modes.
Government’s Commitment to Cultural Preservation
Chief Minister Sai instructed officials to ensure that Pandum 2026 is conducted in an organised, dignified and impactful manner. He said that Bastar Pandum represents the cultural soul of the region and that the festival serves as an important platform for the youth to present their talent before national and international audiences.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma, Tourism Minister Rajesh Agrawal, Culture Secretary Rohit Yadav, Chief Minister’s Secretary Rahul Bhagwat, Director Vivek Acharya and other senior officials.
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