President Murmu Celebrates Bastar Pandum 2026, Acknowledges Peace Progress

On February 7, 2026, President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the Bastar Pandum 2026 festival in Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh. This three-day celebration aims to showcase the rich tribal culture and traditions of the Bastar region, marking a significant shift from years of violence to peace and development. The event took place at the historic Lalbagh Ground and featured a vibrant array of indigenous art, music, and community rituals.

Celebrating Cultural Resilience and Development

During her address, President Murmu emphasized that Pandum represents more than just a festival; it embodies a way of life intertwined with nature. “When seeds are sown in the fields, it is Pandum. When mangoes ripen, it is Pandum. Every moment of life here is celebrated,” she remarked, highlighting Bastar’s harmonious relationship with its environment.

While acknowledging the region’s cultural richness, the President reflected on the adverse effects of nearly four decades of Maoist insurgency. She noted that this turmoil had instilled fear and insecurity among tribal communities, particularly affecting the youth and marginalized groups. President Murmu credited the Union government’s firm actions for diminishing Maoist influence, which has allowed many former extremists to abandon violence and reintegrate into society.

“The rising number of surrenders in Chhattisgarh is a positive sign,” she stated, asserting the government’s commitment to rehabilitating these individuals through targeted welfare programs. She cited the Niyad Nellanar Yojana as an example of how the state government is transforming interior villages, with improvements in electricity, road access, and drinking water facilities.

Education and Cultural Heritage at the Forefront

Education emerged as a central theme in President Murmu’s speech. She described it as vital for both personal and communal advancement, praising the role of Eklavya Model Residential Schools in providing quality education in tribal areas. The President urged parents to prioritize education, asserting that it is essential for a brighter future for both Chhattisgarh and India.

In her tribute to Bastar’s enduring traditions, she referenced the renowned Bastar Dussehra, dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari, as a symbol of tribal unity and pride. She called for a balanced approach to development that respects and preserves cultural heritage while pursuing progress.

President Murmu encouraged the local youth to leverage the various welfare schemes offered by both the Central and state governments to foster personal growth and contribute to regional development. She reiterated the vision of a Viksit Bharat, or Developed India, emphasizing the importance of active participation in nation-building efforts.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by notable dignitaries, including Ramen Deka, the Governor of Chhattisgarh, and Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai. The celebration of Bastar Pandum reflects not only a cultural revival but also a commitment to peace and progress in a region historically marked by strife.