India’s richness lies in its diversity. The multi hued culture of this nation is best manifested in the fairs and festivals that it celebrates with a great deal of ceremonial elegance and splendor. The state of Chhattisgarh is populated by a large number of tribals and their unique culture is also reflected in the festivals that they celebrate with pomp and enthusiasm. The Bhagoriya festival is a festival of the Bhil tribe and is celebrated in the Jhabua district of Chhattisgarh.
The literal meaning of the term Bhagoriya is elopers. Are you wondering why it has been named so? Then get prepared for a real surprise. The most striking characteristic of this festival is that here one is officially given the permission to elope with one’s lover. You have to apply gulal on the girl you have liked and if she reciprocates you are at complete liberty to elope with her. You can also offer her a betel leaf as an expression of your love. If she accepts the token you can rest assure that she has agreed to your proposal and is equally keen on spending the rest of her life with you. Then you can follow the tradition which has been so long followed and run away with your beloved. The marriage will be eventually solemnized.
On the occasion of this festival, Bhagoradev or the God of Dancing is worshipped religiously by the people of the Bhil community. The eldest member of the village supervises over the ceremony. Sweets are offered to the god and later these are distributed amongst the members of the tribe.
The fun is indeed unlimited. Everybody dances to the beat of the drums and the thalis. There is joyousness in the atmosphere and notes of Shahnai and Bansuri fill the air. You will also start tapping your foot and crave to be a part and parcel of this merriment.
The festival is held just a week before the festival of Holi. Holi is generally celebrated in the month of March and this festival precedes it a week ahead.