Karma Mahotsav is a symbol of our ancient and glorious tradition: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai

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Chief Minister attended the Sohrai Karma Mahotsav 2025

Announced ₹50 lakh for the construction of a Karma Akhara in village Kandora

Inaugurated the community hall of the Rautia community

Raipur: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Sunday October 19 , 2025 attended the grand conference (Sohrai Karma Mahotsav 2025) organised by the All India Rautia Samaj Vikas Parishad, State Branch, Chhattisgarh, in village Kandora in Jashpur district as the chief guest.

On this occasion, he inaugurated the community hall of the Rautia community, constructed at a cost of ₹20 lakh in Kunkuri, and performed the Bhoomu pujan of Rautia Bhawan in Gram Panchayat Kandora, to be constructed at a cost of ₹50 lakh.

On the demand of the community, Chief Minister Sai announced ₹50 lakh for the construction of a Karma Akhara in village Kandora and ₹25 lakh for the access road to the Rautia Bhawan in Raipur. He paid homage to the brave martyrs of the Rautia community, Bakhtar Sai and Mundal Singh, by garlanding their photographs on the stage.

In his address, Chief Minister Vishnu deo Sai stated that the Karma Festival symbolises our ancient and glorious tradition, celebrated together by all communities. This festival not only connects us to our cultural roots but also teaches respect and reverence for nature. He added that traditions like Ekadashi Karma and Dussehra Karma are deeply rooted in our culture. These festivals serve to unite society.

Chief Minister Sai said that the state government is rapidly implementing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s guarantees. In the very first cabinet meeting of the government, 18 lakh houses were approved under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Towards women’s empowerment, women are being provided monthly assistance of ₹1,000 through the Mahatari Vandan Yojana. To increase the income of tendu leaf collectors, the government has increased the rate per standard bag to ₹5,500.

Chief Minister Sai stated that the state government is committed to developing Chhattisgarh by 2047, modeled after a developed India. Urging people to adopt “Vocal for Local,” he said that purchasing indigenous goods will not only strengthen the country’s economy but also encourage local artisans and entrepreneurs.

Chief Minister Sai further said that the state government is working vigorously towards Naxal eradication. Just two days ago, 210 Naxalites surrendered and returned to the mainstream.

Chief Minister Sai also that to expand health services in the district, a medical college, a naturopathy and physiotherapy center, a government nursing college, and a government physiotherapy college will be established, providing education and employment opportunities to local youth.

Chief Minister Sai prayed for the prosperity and well-being of the state by offering traditional prayers to a branch of the Karma tree at the Karma Pujan site in Ama Bagh, located on the secondary school playground. He then enthusiastically danced around the branch of the Karma tree, keeping in rhythm with a troupe of Karma dancers, wearing a drum around his neck. His wife, Kaushalya Sai, and family members were also present on the occasion.

Sohrai Karma Festival: Cultural Identity of the Rautia Community

Sohrai Karma Festival is a traditional festival celebrated by the Rautia community to mark the Govardhan festival. On this day, the new crop is brought home after a ritualistic worship. A total of 52 dance troupes from various districts of Chhattisgarh, as well as from Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal, participated in this grand event held in village Kandora. Colorful performances of various folk cultures and traditional dances filled the atmosphere with joy and a festive spirit.

On this occasion, Member of Parliament Radheshyam Rathiya, National President of All India Rautia Samaj Vikas Parishad O.P. Sai, National Vice President Damodar Singh, National General Secretary Azad Singh, Central Organization Minister Bhuneshwar Kesar, Central Women Member Uma Devi along with other office bearers of the society and a large number of dignitaries were present.