The narrative around Bastar in Chhattisgarh has flipped dramatically, as articulated by top leaders. No longer defined by Maoist mayhem, the region now embodies development, cultural richness, and tribal confidence—vividly demonstrated at the grand ‘Bastar Pandum’ festival spanning February 7 to 9.
On X, PM Narendra Modi enthused: ‘Witnessed Bastar’s opulent culture and tribal ethos during Pandum. Heartfelt felicitations to all. Vital for heritage conservation and local upliftment.’
Modi pinpointed the evolution: ‘Bastar once meant insurgency and lag. Today, it’s development paired with residents’ rising self-belief.’ He envisioned a horizon of peace, prosperity, and cultural esteem.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, actively involved, distributed prizes to tribals in Jagdalpur and affirmed: ‘Bastar breaks free from extremist dread, championing its heritage as Viksit Bharat’s envoy.’
He contrasted eras: ‘Decades of Naxal bombs dimmed Bastar. Under PM Modi, its crafts, flavors, and traditions dazzle globally.’ Shah explored the festival’s heritage showcases firsthand.
‘Pandum illustrates governance turning daunting tasks achievable,’ Shah noted. ‘Joyful Bastar testifies to Naxalism’s defeat by progress.’ This event underscores a national strategy: defeating insurgency via empowerment, culture, and infrastructure, heralding brighter days for India’s remote regions.