Raipur, Aug 2: A delegation from Chhattisgarh’s Narayanpur district called on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi to highlight Bastar’s rich tribal heritage, traditional governance systems, and folk traditions.

Led by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, the delegation comprising traditional Manjhi-Chalki community leaders, winners of the ‘Bastar Pandum’ competition, and Padma Shri awardee artists interacted with the President on 30 July. The interaction provided a national platform to showcase the region’s centuries-old cultural identity and social framework.

Municipal Council President Indraprasad Baghel had flagged off the delegation from Narayanpur on 27 July for the national capital.

During the meeting, Mungdi Korram and Sudni Dugga—winners in the tribal jewellery category at the ‘Bastar Pandum’ competition—presented traditional tribal ornaments, explaining the craftsmanship, heritage, and cultural significance behind their designs.

Highlighting the region’s indigenous system of self-governance, Manjhi Rajaram of Edka Pargana, Manjhi Sudhavaram Karanga of Karangal Pargana, Manjhi Mangtu Ram Dhruv of Gotali Pargana, Manjhi Guddu Potai of Noordesh Pargana, and Chalki Somaru Ram of Karangal Pargana detailed the operation of the Manjhi-Chalki system. They emphasised its pivotal role in maintaining social harmony and preserving community customs in Bastar.

The visit is seen as a major step toward promoting the region’s indigenous arts, culture, and social heritage on a national scale.