The traditional Hareli festival, infused with the essence of Chhattisgarhi folk life, commenced on Thursday, July 24th, at the residence of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai. Chhattisgarh, a state where special traditional tools and objects are used for every occasion and activity, showcased its rich cultural heritage during the Hareli festival. The Chief Minister’s residence displayed traditional agricultural tools and attire, representing the state’s vibrant cultural legacy.
Among the displayed items were the ‘Katha,’ two round wooden structures used for measuring paddy before the advent of weighing scales. One ‘Katha’ typically held about four kilograms of paddy, and it was used for measuring and paying wages. Also showcased was the ‘Khumri,’ a circular head covering made of thin bamboo strips, dyed pink, and adorned with cowrie shells. This was traditionally worn by cowherds to protect their heads from sun and rain. Cowherds also carried a ‘Kamra,’ a thick blanket-like garment made of jute fibers, used as a raincoat. The ‘Kasi Ki Dori,’ a rope made from the stem of the ‘Kasi’ plant, was also on display. It was used as ‘Nivar’ to weave cots or charpoys. The process of making the rope is known as ‘Dori Aantna.’ ‘Jhanpi,’ a large, round, lidded wooden structure, served as an alternative to bags or trunks in ancient Chhattisgarh. It was particularly used during wedding ceremonies to store the groom’s clothes, accessories, and food items. Finally, the ‘Kalari,’ a pointed iron hook attached to the end of a bamboo stick, was displayed. It was used for turning and flipping paddy during the threshing process.