President Murmu hails “Bastar Pandum” as a way to connect youth to their culture

A delegation from Bastar Mandal of Chhattisgarh comprising winners of Bastar Pandum 2026, Pargana Manjhi and Chalaki of Bastar and Padma awardees, called on President Droupadi Murmu today at Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre. The President felicitated the members of the delegation and interacted with them. Union Minister for Home Affairs and Cooperation, Amit Shah, and Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Vishnu Deo Sai were present on the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion, the President emphasized that events like Bastar Pandum have played an important role in reconnecting the youth with their traditions, customs, and cultural heritage. President Murmu highlighted that such events promote tourism and create employment opportunities. The President noted that the transformation in Bastar is a source of joy and pride for the entire nation. She expressed confidence that people of Chhattisgarh will scale new heights of development, peace and prosperity through their collective strength and determination. Further, President Murmu assured them that the government would stand by them in every situation.