Festivals such as the Narayanpur Mela in Chhattisgarh reveal a lot about the way of living of the tribals in Chhattisgarh. The religious festivals of the Hindus, Muslims and Christians are celebrated with a great deal of joyous enthusiasm in the state of Chhattisgarh. The Festivals associated with these festivals also serve as the meeting ground of a large number of people.
However the greatest attraction is the fairs and festivals of the tribal community. The tribes living in Chhattisgarh have a distinctive lifestyle of their own and all of us are curious to know about it. A visit to the fairs and festivals in Chhattisgarh will make us familiar with their unique culture. This is because the fairs and festivals are probably the best expressions of their inimitable culture.
The Narayanpur Festival is celebrated in the Bastar region of Chhattisgarh. The Bastar district has a sizeable tribal population and they celebrate this festival with a lot of happiness and exuberance. The term Mela literally means fair but the Narayanpur Mela is not a fair but a festival.
On the occasion of this Chhattisgarh festival, the tribal people follow several traditions and customs. They worship the tribal deities. After worshipping their deities with a lot of devotion, they engage themselves in unrestrained merry making. The gaiety of the tribals knows no bounds. Several sessions of drinking are an integral part of the festivities.
All of us are probably well versed with the fact that collective dancing is an essential part of tribal culture. When they celebrate the Narayanpur Mela, their rhythmic dancing to the notes of fabulous drum music is simply a treat to watch. Dancing together without any restrain or reserve is a way of manifesting their joy and elation. Cheerful freewheeling marks this Chhattisgarh Festival and provides valuable insight into the ethnic way of living of these colorful people.
The Narayanpur Mela is held in the last week of February every year with a lot of merriment.