Chhattisgarh, with its deep-rooted connection to Lord Shri Ram’s exile, holds a treasure trove of stories, legends, and historical landmarks that bear witness to his divine presence. The state is organizing its first ever ‘National Ramayana Festival’ which aims to awaken the spirit of Lord Shri Ram’s journey in the state and inspire people to reconnect with the divine essence of his teachings. This grand event, taking place at the Ramleela Maidan in Raigarh from June 1 to June 3, is a celebration of the revered epic Ramayana and its profound connection with the state.
Ramayana: A Revered Epic
Ramayana, one of the two great Indian epics, holds a revered place in the hearts of millions across the nation. Composed by Sage Valmiki, it narrates the heroic journey of Lord Shri Ram, his devoted wife Mata Sita, brother Laxman and his loyal companion Hanuman. The epic not only presents a compelling narrative but also imparts invaluable moral and ethical lessons, making it a perennial source of inspiration and wisdom.
Chhattisgarh: A Sacred Land Associated with Lord Shri Ram and Mata Kaushalya
Chhattisgarh proudly claims its association with Lord Shri Ram, Mata Kaushalya, and the Ramayana. Mata Kaushalya, Lord Shri Ram’s mother, was born in the Dakshina Kosala region, which corresponds to present-day Chhattisgarh. Known for her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to Lord Shri Ram, she is revered as a symbol of motherhood and worshipped by many. The state is blessed with the only temple dedicated to Mata Kaushalya, situated in Chandkhuri town of Raipur district, which is considered to be the birthplace of Mata Kaushalya.
Lord Shri Ram’s Connection with Chhattisgarh
During his exile, Lord Rama spent a significant part, approximately 10 years, in the forests of Dandakaranya, which encompass present-day Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh. The forests of Chhattisgarh, located in the heart of India, are believed to be the very place where Lord Shri Ram resided during his exile. The region is dotted with temples and shrines dedicated to Lord Shri Ram, making it a sacred site for Hindus. Additionally, the presence of tribal communities in Chhattisgarh has helped preserve the rich traditions and cultural heritage associated with Lord Shri Ram.
Lord Shri Ram and Chhattisgarh’s Ramnami Devotees: A Sacred Bond
‘Shri Ram’…is not merely a name for this community; it is an integral part of their culture. These devoted followers belong to ‘Ramnami Panth’ and their unwavering dedication to Lord Shri Ram is evident through the tattoos of his name on their bodies. Every part of their bodies bears the name of Lord Shri Ram. They wear clothes adorned with the inscription of “Ram Naam” (the name of Lord Shri Ram) and don headgear made of peacock feathers. Their entire lives revolve around the worship of Lord Shri Ram. The community ardently believes that the faith of Lord Rama’s devotees knows no bounds. They mainly reside in the eastern region of Janjgir Champa, Shivrinarayan, Sarangarh, and Bilaspur and are mostly found on the river banks.
Preservation and Promotion of memories of Lord Rama’s exile in Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh Government has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to preserving and promoting the state’s abundant cultural and religious heritage. Through the renovation of the temple dedicated to Mata Kaushalya, and the organization of events including the “Kaushalya Mahotsav” and the ‘National Ramayana Festival’, the state invites people to explore and cherish its deep connection with Lord Shri Ram, Mata Kaushalya, and the epic Ramayana.
Recognizing the historical and spiritual importance of Lord Shri Ram’s trail, the state is undertaking the development of the ‘Ram Van Gaman Tourism Circuit.’ This remarkable route aims to retrace Lord Shri Ram’s footsteps during his exile, offering pilgrims and devotees the opportunity to immerse themselves in the sacred journey. Through this initiative, Chhattisgarh seeks to honor the profound connection between Lord Shri Ram and its own land, preserving the sanctity of these hallowed grounds for generations to come.
National Ramayana Festival
As a culmination of its commitment to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage associated with Lord Shri Ram, Chhattisgarh is organizing the National Ramayana Festival. This three-day grand event will bring together artists, performers, and devotees from across the country. The festival will feature various cultural programmes and activities that highlight the essence and teachings of the Ramayana. The grand national fest will showcase various competitive programmes and the dance dramas to be presented will be centered around ‘Aranya Kanda’ of the epic Ramayana. In addition, the presence of diverse cultural groups from across the country and abroad will add to the enthusiasm and grandeur of the event, fostering a sense of unity and promoting cultural exchange.
The National Ramayana Festival in Chhattisgarh is a testament to the state’s commitment to preserving and promoting its rich religious and cultural heritage. This grand celebration of the epic Ramayana will not only captivate the audience with its artistic performances but also inspire individuals to embrace the values of righteousness, virtue, and devotion embodied by Lord Shri Ram. By bringing together diverse cultural traditions and fostering a spirit of unity, the festival promises to be an unforgettable experience that honors the legacy of Lord Shri Ram and the timeless teachings of the Ramayana.
Promoting Tourism and Strengthening Bonds
The National Ramayana Festival not only celebrates cultural heritage but also serves as a significant catalyst for tourism. Chhattisgarh, with its rich historical sites and stunning landscapes, provides an ideal backdrop for this grand event. The festival attracts tourists from all over the country and beyond, promoting local businesses, hospitality, and tourism infrastructure. Additionally, the festival fosters a sense of unity, harmony, and mutual respect among participants and spectators, transcending regional, linguistic, and religious boundaries.
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