Bastar's 9-Day Lakshmi Jagar: Ancient Tradition Thrives Post-Harvest

• Bastar, Chhattisgarh, celebrates Lakshmi Jagar, a 9-day post-harvest tradition, showcasing its rich ancient culture.
• Mother Lakshmi is worshipped using sounds from a bow, with rituals symbolizing the marriage of Lakshmi-Narayana through paddy.
• The Jagar includes four types: Athe Jagar, Teeja Jagar, Lakshmi Jagar, and Bali Jagar, reflecting farming and grain beliefs.
• Gurumay invokes deities and sings Jagar songs narrating the story of Queen Lakshmi and King Narayana, accompanied by the Mohri instrument.
• This centuries-old tradition is performed for family peace and well-being, with paddy symbolizing Lakshmi brought from fields for worship.