Hareli Utsav at Chief Minister’s residence: A glimpse of Chhattisgarhi traditions, cultural splendor scattered with traditional agricultural equipment

Raipur, 24 July 2025: The traditional festival of Hareli Tihar, carrying the fragrance of Chhattisgarhi folk life, formally began today at the residence of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai. Chhattisgarh is a state where special types of traditional equipment and items have been used for every occasion and work. On the occasion of Hareli festival, a glimpse of such traditional agricultural equipment and costumes was seen in the Chief Minister’s residence office, which are the invaluable heritage of the rich cultural heritage of Chhattisgarh.

Katha – Two round wooden structures were placed on the extreme left, which are called ‘Katha’. In old times, when weighing scales were not in vogue in villages for weighing paddy, paddy was measured with Katha only. Generally, about four kilos of paddy comes in one Katha. Paddy was measured with Katha only and paid as wages.

Khumri- A circular structure made of thin bamboo strips, painted pink and decorated with cowries is called Khumri to protect the head from sun and rain. It is usually worn on the head by cowherds. In the past, shepherds used to go out to graze their cattle carrying a ‘kamra’ (raincoat) and khumri with them. ‘Kamra’ was a thick blanket-like garment made of jute fibre, which was used to protect from rain.

Bansi Dori- This string is made from the stem of a plant called ‘Kansi’. Earlier it was used as ‘Nivaar’ to weave a cot or cot. The process of making the string is called ‘Dori Antna’. At the beginning of the rainy season, Kansi plants grow on the ridges of the fields, whose stems are cut to make strings. This string is useful for strong weaving that lasts for years.

Jhaampi- A large round wooden structure with a lid is called ‘Jhampi’. In ancient times, it was used as an alternative to a bag or box in Chhattisgarh. It was especially used during wedding ceremonies to keep the groom’s clothes, makeup items, dishes etc. during the wedding procession. It is a strong structure made of bamboo wood, which remains safe for many years.

Kalari- ‘Kalari’ is made by attaching a sharp iron hook to the end of a bamboo stick. It is used to turn the paddy during threshing.