New Delhi, Oct 16 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu will arrive in Chhattisgarh’s Jagdalpur on October 23 as part of her Bastar tour.
During the visit, she will participate in the historic “Muria Darbar” organised under “Bastar Dussehra” and hold a special interaction with members of the Manjhi-Chalki community.
Later, the President will address a massive public gathering at Lalbagh Maidan.
Bastar Member of Parliament and Chairman of the Dussehra Committee, Mahesh Kashyap, had extended a formal invitation to the President to attend Bastar Dussehra. President Murmu accepted the invitation, paving the way for her visit to Jagdalpur on October 23.
State chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai said while speaking to media persons here on Friday that an invitation had been extended to President Droupadi Murmu to visit Bastar as part of her proposed trip to Chhattisgarh.
Earlier, during a meeting with the Manjhi-Chalki (traditional tribal community leaders) representatives of Bastar, a request was also made for her to visit the region, which she had gladly accepted. Her visit to Chhattisgarh is scheduled for October 22 and 23. On October 23, she will travel to Jagdalpur to participate in the Muria Darbar.
“The President’s arrival in Bastar is a moment of great joy and pride for all of us,” the Chief Minister said. He has directed officials that all required facilities be made available for the common people attending the programme.
In preparation for the high-profile visit, District Collector Akash Chhikara and Superintendent of Police Shalabh Sinha convened an important meeting of officials. The meeting undertook a detailed review of security arrangements, traffic management, protocol, seating arrangements and all other essential logistics. Both senior officers issued strict instructions to the concerned departments to complete all necessary preparations well in advance.
Following the review meeting, the Collector and the SP personally inspected the venue at Lalbagh Maidan. They examined the stage construction, security measures, separate entry and exit routes for dignitaries and the general public, drinking water supply, emergency medical facilities and vehicle parking arrangements.
The Muria Darbar carries deep historical significance. In the days of the Bastar princely state, the king would hold a “Darbar” after the successful conclusion of Dussehra to listen to the problems of the people. Village Manjhis and Mukhiyas would present the grievances and needs of their areas before the ruler. This traditional assembly formed an important part of Bastar Dussehra.
With the end of the monarchical system and the advent of democracy in the country, the character of the “Darbar” has evolved. Today, in the presence of administrative and political representatives, detailed discussions take place on regional problems, demands and other issues. Members of the erstwhile royal family continue to remain present during the proceedings, keeping the traditional link alive.
President Murmu’s participation in the Muria Darbar and her subsequent public address are expected to draw large crowds and highlight the cultural and democratic ethos of Bastar.
–IANS
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