Jagdalpur/Raipur, October 4(HS): Union Home Minister Amit Shah will participate in the Mudiya Darbar, a special event of Bastar Dussehra, in Jagdalpur on Saturday, where he will interact with Manjhi-Mukhiyas (tribal representatives) from 80 parganas and address their concerns. This marks a historic first, as no Union Home Minister has previously engaged directly with tribal representatives at this traditional court. The world-renowned Bastar Dussehra festival has maintained this 145-year-old tradition uninterrupted.
Shah is scheduled to reach Jagdalpur at noon and will proceed directly to the Maa Danteshwari Temple for prayers. Subsequently, he will join the Muria Darbar organized at Sirhasar Bhawan and participate in the Seva Pakhwada exhibition. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma has overseen preparations for the visit, inspecting security arrangements and program venues.
Sixth Visit in 22 Months
This will be Shah's sixth visit to Bastar in the past 22 months. Earlier, on April 5, 2025, he attended the Bastar Pandom (fair) in Dantewada, where he pledged to give international recognition to tribal identity and culture. This time, he continues that commitment by becoming part of Bastar Dussehra, a unique confluence of Sanatan faith and tribal tradition.
Historical Significance of Muria Darbar
Prior to 1876, Manjhi-Mukhiyas and villagers stayed at the royal palace during Bastar Dussehra, where the king held court. During that period, the Muria tribe launched a historic rebellion under Jhada Sirha's leadership against oppressive British policies and restrictions on tribal rights over forests. On March 8, 1876, Deputy Commissioner Mac George of Sironcha was forced to concede to the protesters and implement revenue and administrative reforms.This rebellion became a symbol of tribal unity and rights protection.
Since then, instead of the royal court at the palace during Dussehra, the Muria Darbar has been held at Jhada Sirha's shrine. Until 1965, late Maharaja Pravir Chandra Bhanj Deo himself presided over it. Subsequently, the tradition has continued with the presence of government administration.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
