Foreign tourists are increasingly drawn to Bastar, Chhattisgarh, to experience its unique customs, traditions, and culture, especially during the Bastar Dussehra festival. One such visitor, Sophie Hartmann from England, recently had the opportunity to experience the region’s hospitality and lifestyle. Sophie arrived in Bastar on Friday to witness the Dussehra celebrations. She chose to spend time in Mahurbeda village, in the Keshkal Valley. The Vatti family, residents of the village, welcomed Sophie with traditional Bastariya customs, including a foot-washing ceremony, tilak application, and the presentation of a white sash.

 

The Vatti family’s daughter guided Sophie through their home and garden, sharing insights into their daily lives. Sophie was captivated by the simplicity yet richness of their lifestyle, impressed by the mutual love and harmony in the family. Despite her eagerness to reach Jagdalpur for the Dussehra festivities, Sophie took time to enjoy a traditional Bastariya meal prepared for her. She relished the authentic flavors of rice, roti, para footu, mungabhaji, and lal bhaji served on a plate made from whole leaves. The meal was a refreshing change from the city food she was accustomed to, and she expressed her gratitude to the Vatti family. Sophie, a seasoned traveller to India, has often brought foreign tourists to Bastar.

 

The region’s scenic beauty, cultural richness, and rural lifestyle continue to captivate visitors from around the world. While Bastar is witnessing increasing interest from both domestic and international tourists, the region faces challenges in meeting the demand for home stays. Many visitors seek to experience rural life firsthand, interact with local families, and savor traditional Bastariya cuisine. However, the Keshkal area currently lacks sufficient home stay facilities. The majority of tourists arrive from Raipur, state capital, which has good rail and air connectivity. While the scenic beauty and cultural attractions of Keshkal draw them in, the limited accommodation options in the villages pose a hindrance. The absence of financial assistance or loan facilities for villagers to improve their homes for home stay purposes has further hampered the development of tourism in the area.