Hareli Festival Celebrated at Chief Minister’s Residence: A Glimpse of Chhattisgarhi Traditions Amidst Traditional Agricultural Tools and Cultural Grandeur

Raipur : The traditional celebration of Hareli Tihar, imbued with the fragrance of Chhattisgarh’s rural life, began today with great reverence at the residence of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai. Known for its deep-rooted customs, Chhattisgarh is a land where unique traditional tools and objects are used for every ritual and occasion. On this auspicious occasion, the Chief Minister’s residence showcased an impressive display of traditional agricultural implements and ethnic items, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the state.

Here’s a look at the key traditional artifacts on display:

Kathaa
On the far left were two circular wooden structures known as Kathaa. In earlier times, before weighing scales became common in villages, Kathaa was used to measure rice. Typically, one Kathaa holds about four kilograms of rice. It was also used as a unit for paying farm labourers in kind.

Khumri
Khumri is a round headgear made of thin bamboo strips, painted pink and decorated with cowrie shells. It was traditionally worn by cowherds to protect their heads from sun and rain. They would often set out for grazing carrying both a Khumri and a Kamra—a raincoat-like garment made from jute fiber, used to shield against rain.

Kansi Rope (Kansi ki Dori)
This rope is made from the stems of the Kansi plant. Earlier, it was commonly used for weaving cots (charpoys). The process of making it is called Dori Aantna. During the early monsoon season, Kansi plants grow along the field boundaries, and their stems are harvested and twisted into strong ropes suitable for long-lasting weaving.

Jhanpi
The Jhanpi is a large, circular, lidded basket made of bamboo. In ancient Chhattisgarh, it was used in place of bags or trunks. It was especially used during weddings to carry the groom’s clothes, toiletries, and delicacies. Strong and durable, a Jhanpi can last for many years.

Kalari
Kalari is made by attaching a sharp iron hook to the end of a bamboo stick. It is used during paddy threshing to flip and turn the grains.

This year’s Hareli celebration at the Chief Minister’s residence was a vivid reflection of Chhattisgarh’s timeless traditions, highlighting the harmonious coexistence of culture, agriculture, and heritage. Through these artifacts, the state showcased not only its agrarian roots but also its commitment to preserving and honoring its indigenous way of life.