Chhattisgarh came alive in Delhi on Thursday when the Hareli festival was celebrated with pomp and show.
Hareli, the agricultural festival, was celebrated at the Chhattisgarh Bhawan as part of Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel's initiative of preserving the state’s culture and tradition.
The aroma of Chhattisgarhi delicacies and foot-tapping music of traditional folk songs filled the air, connecting people with the state's culture.
The visitors enthusiastically took part in the traditional game of climbing ‘Gedi’ (long bamboo poles with a footrest) which requires a lot of concentration and balance.
The people of Chhattisgarh settled in Delhi appreciated the Chief Minister’s initiative and said that such events keep them close to their culture and tradition even while being away from their state.
People gathered in large numbers at the Bhawan.
Hareli is considered the first festival of the year in the region. After sowing paddy, the farmers worship all the agricultural and iron tools on the day of Hareli and pray for good harvest and health.
Chhattisgarh Resident Commissioner Ajeet Vasant and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.