Raipur: Chhattisgarh celebrated the 25th Silver Jubilee of its State Festival, Rajyotsav 2025, with grand festivities from 1st to 5th November at the Nava Raipur State Festival Grounds. Each day was filled with cultural programs highlighting the state’s rich heritage. Alongside the main stage, the “Shilp Gram” showcased nearly 1,000 local artists performing various traditional art forms, folk music, and dance, reflecting the vibrant cultural identity of Chhattisgarh.
The festival also featured performances by renowned artists such as Hansraj Raghuwanshi, Bhoomi Trivedi, Aditya Narayan, Ankit Tiwari, and concluded with a grand performance by Kailash Kher, captivating thousands of attendees with their music.
Prime Minister Inaugurates Rajyotsav
The festival was inaugurated on 1st November by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and preparations were meticulously planned to reflect the dignity of the occasion. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai personally inspected the festival venues and directed officials to ensure smooth arrangements.
The opening ceremony began with traditional mandar and nagada drumming, creating a festive atmosphere, followed by tribal dances and cultural performances that highlighted Chhattisgarh’s folk traditions.
Daily Cultural Highlights
- 1st November: P.C. Lal Yadav, Dushyant Harmukh, Aru Sahu, Chandrabhushan Verma, and Nirmala Thakur presented traditional folk arts.
- 2nd November: Padma Shri Domar Singh performed the famous Kevat Nacha, joined by Sunil Tiwari, Jitendra Kumar Sahu, and Jaishri Nair.
- 3rd November: Padma Shri Usha Barle staged the globally renowned Pandwani, alongside performances by Rakesh Sharma (Sufi music), Mahendra Chauhan & Band, and Tilakaraja Sahu (Lokdhara).
- 4th November: Kala Kendra Raipur Band, Rekha Dewar (folk songs), and Prakash Awasthi (folk stage) performed.
- 5th November: Poonam Virat Tiwari presented Rang Chhattisgarh, along with artists from Indira Kala Sangeet Vishwavidyalaya, Khairagarh.
Bollywood and Devotional Music
Rajyotsav 2025 also included Bollywood and devotional music performances:
- Hansraj Raghuwanshi inaugurated the festival with devotional bhajans.
- Aditya Narayan energized the youth with live singing on 2nd November.
- Bhoomi Trivedi mesmerized audiences on 3rd November, while Ankit Tiwari enthralled them with emotional songs on 4th November.
- The festival concluded with Kailash Kher, leaving a lasting impression on thousands of spectators.
Theme: “Developed Chhattisgarh – Prosperous Culture, Empowered Citizens”
The theme emphasized balanced development combining modern infrastructure, economic progress, and governance with the state’s folk culture, traditions, and tribal identity. The festival highlighted government initiatives in education, health, agriculture, industry, employment, and citizen participation as the driving force of development.
Traditional dances, folk music, and handicrafts showcased that empowered citizens sustain cultural richness, laying the foundation for a progressive Chhattisgarh.
Exhibitions, Rural Products, and Women Empowerment
Over 30 government departments displayed development initiatives, innovation, and welfare programs across sectors including education, health, rural development, digital governance, and women & child development.
Rural products and handicrafts from self-help groups (SHGs) were prominently showcased, including kosa textiles and bamboo products, promoting “Vocal for Local”. Women’s participation was highlighted as a model of empowerment, complementing the state’s economic and cultural growth.
Youth, Startups, and Employment
Rajyotsav 2025 focused on youth empowerment with career guidance camps, skill development sessions, and startup exhibitions. Government recruitment opportunities and social programs were also promoted, ensuring active participation from young citizens and making the festival a platform for aspiration and innovation.
Safety and Security Measures
Security was a top priority, with extensive deployment of police and security personnel, CCTV surveillance, traffic management, and women-friendly helplines. These measures ensured a safe and enjoyable environment for all visitors.
Awards and Recognition
Outstanding performers and contributors in various fields were honored, including villages excelling in rural development, innovative farmers, and achievers in sports, arts, and education.
The Vice President of India, C.P. Radhakrishnan, awarded 41 individuals, including filmmaker Anurag Basu, with state honors. He lauded the state’s success in combating Naxalism through development, attributing it to effective leadership, security forces, and community involvement.
During the “Lakhpati Didi” program, financial assistance of ₹647.28 crore was provided to 69.15 lakh beneficiaries, highlighting women’s economic empowerment. Radhakrishnan emphasized that women will progress from Lakhpati Didi to Crorepati Didi, marking a milestone in self-reliance and confidence.
