Hareli Festival at Chief Minister’s Residence: Traditional Folk Instruments Accompany the Graceful Raut Nacha Dance

Raipur : The Hareli Festival celebrations at the residence of the Chief Minister are in full swing with the enchanting sounds of traditional folk instruments and the mesmerizing performances of Raut Nacha, a hallmark of Chhattisgarh’s cultural heritage. The entire premises are steeped in a festive atmosphere, bringing to life the vibrant essence of the rural heartland.

The scene is rich with color and energy—folk artists dressed in traditional attire perform Raut Nacha with great fervor, while tribal dancers showcase captivating folk dances. The cultural landscape of Chhattisgarh is unfolding in its most vivid and authentic form, resonating with the rhythmic beats of local instruments and the sweetness of Chhattisgarhi music.

Raut Nacha, a traditional folk dance deeply rooted in Chhattisgarh’s folk culture, is usually performed during Diwali as part of Govardhan Puja. This dance is mainly presented by members of the Yadav community (herders/cowherds) and symbolizes devotion to Lord Krishna and reverence for cattle (Gau-Dhan).

The tradition of Raut Nacha in Chhattisgarh spans centuries and is closely associated with the celebration of Govardhan Puja, where cowherd boys reenact the playful legends of Lord Krishna. Dancers adorn themselves in vibrant, decorative costumes, wear turbans, and hold sticks in their hands. Their attire is embellished with cowrie shells, bells (ghungroos), and other ornamental items.

During the Raut Nacha performance, traditional musical instruments such as the dhol, mandar, and nagara are used, creating a rhythmic pulse to which the dancers move in perfect synchrony.
This dance not only expresses religious devotion, but also reflects social unity, the importance of labor, the significance of cattle-rearing, and the cultural pride of the community.

The accompanying songs, known as Raut Geet, celebrate faith, bravery, love, and the divine tales of Lord Krishna. Through this rich cultural spectacle, Hareli Tihar at the Chief Minister’s residence has become a vibrant tribute to the timeless traditions of Chhattisgarh.