Bastar’s Glory Shines on Gujarat’s Soil — Chhattisgarh Tableau Showcases a New Model of Development at the Ekta Parade
The sunday mail
Ekta Nagar (Gujarat), October 31, 2025:
At the grand Ekta Parade held in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, on the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Chhattisgarh’s tableau titled “The Land of Bastar – A Saga of Culture, Creation and Progress” captivated everyone with its beauty, symbolism, and message of transformation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reviewed the parade and appreciated the diverse cultural representations showcased by various states and organizations. Chhattisgarh’s tableau, depicting the cultural vibrancy and developmental journey of Bastar, stood out as a blend of tradition and progress, drawing widespread admiration.
At the front of the tableau, artists from the Madia tribal community, dressed in traditional attire, performed the Gaur dance, symbolizing unity, pride, and festivity of Bastar. The traditional turhi (trumpet) placed nearby echoed the joy of Bastar’s festivals, while the depiction of Nandi represented the region’s deep-rooted faith in Lord Shiva and its spiritual heritage.
The middle section of the tableau artistically portrayed Bastar’s journey of transformation—from a region once affected by extremism to one now known for growth in education, healthcare, roads, and employment. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Bastar today stands as a symbol of a rapidly changing India. The echo of guns has now been replaced by the sound of development.
The rear of the tableau featured a woman carrying a basket, representing the strength, creativity, and contribution of Bastar’s women. The entire tableau was beautifully adorned with Dhokra art, reflecting the remarkable craftsmanship and traditional skill of Bastar’s artisans.
Chhattisgarh’s tableau not only highlighted its rich art and cultural heritage, but also narrated the story of hope and transformation taking place in Bastar. It showcased how the new Bastar has become a harmonious blend of tradition, nature, and progress. Once considered remote and inaccessible, the region is now connected by roads where school bells ring and children’s laughter fills the air.
Electricity and internet connectivity have brought new opportunities to rural areas. The youth are filled with energy and determination to build a better future, while women are becoming self-reliant through handicrafts, forest-based enterprises, and government welfare schemes. The people of Bastar now place their faith in development and change.
This tableau stood as a symbol of confidence and resurgence, representing a Bastar that is not only rooted in its traditions but also moving swiftly toward a new era of education, infrastructure, healthcare, and employment.
The selection of tableaux for the Ekta Parade was conducted through a meticulous process led by the Union Home Secretary, who chaired a high-level committee of experts from various fields. States and central organizations presented their themes and models before the committee, and Chhattisgarh’s tableau was chosen for its originality, cultural depth, and vivid depiction of progress.
Along with Chhattisgarh, the final list included tableaux from NSG, NDRF, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Gujarat, Jammu & Kashmir, Maharashtra, Manipur, Puducherry, and Uttarakhand—all of which participated in the prestigious parade at Ekta Nagar.
