Raipur: The vibrant spirit of Chhattisgarh’s agrarian roots and cultural essence will come alive at the Chief Minister’s residence on July 24, as the state gears up to celebrate its iconic folk festival, Hareli, with traditional fervour and joyous energy.
Organised by the Department of Culture, the event will showcase the diversity of Chhattisgarh’s folk traditions and a deep respect for farmers through a rich tapestry of rituals and performances. The CM residence premises have been decked out in Chhattisgarhi folk decor – from green floral arches and traditional torans to rural handicraft installations – capturing the true spirit of Hareli.
Folk artists from across the state will enthral audiences with captivating performances such as the Gedi dance and Raut Nacha. Adding to the festive charm will be the monsoon Sawan swings and devotional recitations of the ‘Savanahi Ramayan’, drawing visitors into a nostalgic and immersive cultural experience.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai will personally take part in the ceremonial worship of agricultural tools and implements – a hallmark of the Hareli tradition. An expansive exhibition of both traditional and modern farm machinery will also be on display, offering the younger generation insights into the state’s agrarian legacy and evolving farm technologies.
Children will have the chance to engage with age-old folk games, while exhibitions on local art will further highlight Chhattisgarh’s vibrant cultural identity. This year, Hareli is being presented not just as a festival, but as a confluence of environment, tradition, and progress.
Extending his greetings to the people of Chhattisgarh, CM Sai said that Hareli is more than just a celebration of farming and greenery- it is a festival of coexistence with nature, rooted in tradition and the rhythms of rural life. The government, he stressed, is committed to passing on this cultural heritage to future generations.
The Hareli celebration at the CM residence is not just a tribute to rural folk traditions, but also a significant step towards placing these values at the heart of public life.